A LIFE-SAVING initiative between two emergency services has now begun.

A group of up to 20 firefighters from across Hampshire have begun driving ambulances this week to support South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) during the response to Covid-19.

The agreement between Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) and SCAS means the people of Hampshire can be kept safer and lives can be saved.

Firefighters have volunteered to be redeployed to SCAS to utilise their skills for an initial period of four weeks to support the efforts of their health colleagues.

Assistant Director of Operations, Area Manager Dan Tasker at HFRS said: “These volunteers are the definition of everyone playing their part in the fight of Covid-19.

"I am so proud to see our teams playing a key role in protecting the local community.

“HFRS are ready, willing and able to support our NHS colleagues wherever we can."

The firefighters who have volunteered to join SCAS already have extensive knowledge in delivering IEC and are upscaling their existing skills to support our communities where it is needed most.

Paul Jefferies, Assistant Director of Operations for SCAS NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful to our partners in HFRS for their help and support during Covid-19.

“This is a great opportunity to build on our joint-working relationships and also will provide a fabulous opportunity for SCAS and HFRS to learn from each other."