South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) and South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) will come together to form the South Central and South East Ambulance Group – the first of its kind in England.
The new group model aims to strengthen patient care, ensure sustainable services, and build a more resilient ambulance system across the region.
The Group says that by working together more closely, the two services will be better placed to share expertise and resources, harness innovation, and invest in improvements that directly benefit patients.
Both Trusts will continue to operate independently, retaining the flexibility to meet the specific needs of their local communities, while collaborating on key priorities such as digital innovation, clinical best practice, and workforce development.
The Group will introduce a shared leadership model, with a single Chief Executive and Chair supporting both Trusts.
The move is supported by NHS England (South East)
The transition to the new South Central and South East Ambulance Group will take place in phases from late 2025 through to 2027.
“This is a forward-looking partnership designed around patients and our people,” said Simon Weldon, Chief Executive of South East Coast Ambulance Service.
“Together we can build stronger teams, provide better support for our staff, and ensure ambulance services across the South East are fit for the future.”
Anne Eden, Regional Director for NHS England in the South East, said: “The proposed move to a group model for our region’s two main ambulance service providers is a real opportunity to improve care and access for our patients, while offering better value for money. A shared leadership model will ensure both services are fit for the future as the NHS continues to transform to deliver now and in years to come.”
Trade union Unison says the new structure must ensure staff are protected.
UNISON South East regional secretary Maggi Ferncombe said:“Efforts to improve patient care and make ambulance services more resilient should always be a priority. But this mustn’t be at the expense of the staff who keep services running.
“Ambulance workers across the South East have faced years of intense pressure and growing demand. Any merger or new way of delivering ambulance care must protect jobs, pay, and conditions
“Any changes must genuinely deliver a better service for staff and patients alike. It’s also vital ambulance workers and their unions are involved at every step of the way.”
