Sustainability is central to how we operate and how we serve communities. As a leading first aid charity, we recognise our responsibility to reduce our environmental impact, strengthen organisational resilience, and help create a healthier future for the people and places we support. 

We commit to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2045, aligned with national healthcare ambitions, including those of the NHS. Our approach is practical and evidence-based, focused on delivering real, long-term reductions in carbon emissions. We do not use charitable funds to offset carbon; instead, we prioritise measurable reductions supported by robust data, clear accountability, and continuous improvement.

Environment and Sustainability Policy.

Our journey to Net Zero 

We publish a rolling set of Carbon Reduction Plans (CRPs) that set out our emissions baseline, targets, and progress across:

• Direct emissions (Scope 1) – such as fuel used by our fleet and buildings.
• Indirect emissions (Scope 2 and relevant Scope 3) – including purchased energy, travel, procurement, and supply chains.

Our targets are:

• Net Zero by 2040 for emissions we directly control.
• Net Zero by 2045 for emissions we influence through partners and suppliers.

We regularly monitor and review our progress against these targets to ensure transparency and accountability. 

Carbon Reduction Plans

• Carbon Reduction Plan – Reporting Year 2024 (published July 2025).
• Carbon Reduction Plan – Reporting Year 2024 (published July 2025).

There was no standalone Carbon Reduction Plan produced for 2023 due to data availability issues following a utility supplier billing platform change. To ensure accuracy and transparency, we used only complete and verifiable data. We provide further information within the published plans. 

Embedding environmental best practice

To ensure we embed sustainability into how we operate rather than treated as a standalone activity. We are implementing an Environmental Management System (EMS) aligned with ISO 14001. 

The EMS provides a structured framework to: 

• Identify and manage significant environmental impacts.
• Comply with environmental legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Set objectives, monitor performance, and drive continual improvement.
• Prepare for and respond to environmental risks and incidents.

The system is being rolled out across key operational sites and functions. We are working towards ISO 14001 certification by Summer 2026, which will provide assurance to partners, commissioners, customers, staff, and volunteers that environmental risks are being managed in a responsible and systematic manner. 

Turning commitment into action 

We focus on the areas where we can make the greatest environmental impact, embedding sustainability into everyday decisions and working with our people, partners, and communities to create a healthier, more resilient future. 

Reducing carbon emissions

We manage emissions across our estates, fleet, travel, energy use, and procurement, aiming for real reductions that support our Net Zero commitments. 

Responsible resource use

We use energy, water, and materials efficiently, reduce waste, and improve reuse and recycling across all operations. 

Partnering for higher standards

We work with suppliers and partners to raise environmental standards throughout our supply chain, ensuring sustainable practices extend beyond our organisation. 

Engaging our people

We train and support staff and volunteers to embed sustainability into everyday practice, making it part of how we operate at every level. 

Governance and accountability

Robust monitoring, reporting, and senior leadership oversight ensure we track progress for review and improvement. 

Governance, transparency, and accountability

Sustainability is supported by clear leadership and governance arrangements. Our Environmental and Sustainability Policy and Carbon Reduction Plans are published on this page and reviewed regularly. 

Together, they set out: 

• Our commitments and targets.
• How environmental risks and responsibilities are managed.
• How progress is measured, reviewed, and reported.

This transparency supports trust, partnership working, and informed decision-making for everyone we work with. 

Working together for a sustainable future

We know we cannot deliver meaningful change alone. We work collaboratively with commissioners, partners, suppliers, employees, volunteers, and communities to share learning, improve standards, and respond to emerging environmental challenges.

By embedding sustainability into how we operate, we are strengthening our organisation, supporting healthier and more resilient communities, and ensuring we can continue delivering life-saving services responsibly now and generations to come.