02/06/2026
Volunteers Week (1 to 7 June) takes place across the UK. Across the East Midlands, hundreds of volunteers give up their free time, skills and compassion every day to make a big impact in their communities and to help those who need it most.
According to the latest national ambulance volunteering survey conducted by The Association of Ambulance Chief Executives, volunteers for East Midlands Ambulance Service are reporting high levels of satisfaction and significant personal benefits.
The findings, based on responses from 180 EMAS volunteers, highlight the vital role volunteers play within the ambulance service, with more than three quarters of respondents (78.3%) saying they were satisfied or very satisfied with their volunteering experience.
They also highlighted strong relationships with their teams, with 72.2% agreeing they have a good relationship with their local volunteering team.
For many, volunteering is more than a role. It is a chance to give back and be part of the wider ambulance service, with the opportunity to learn, grow and develop new skills.
The survey shows that volunteering with EMAS is making a real difference to individuals:
-81.7% of volunteers reported increased skills
-68.3% said their personal development, including confidence and self-esteem, had improved
-Over a third (35.6%) reported improved health and wellbeing
Our volunteers come from all walks of life, where for some volunteering is the start of something new and for others, it is a way to use a lifetime of experience to help others.
The research shows that volunteers are driven by a strong desire to give something back.
-Over half (51.7%) said they wanted to make good use of their free time
-A similar proportion (51.1%) said they wanted to get involved in their local community
-More than a third (37.2%) said they believe in what the organisation does
Michael Barnett-Connolly, Head of Community Response, said:
"I want to thank all of our amazing volunteers at EMAS, who go above and beyond to help make a lasting difference to the people in our communities across the region. They are integral to not only our response as an ambulance service but to also helping build stronger and safer communities across the region.
"The feedback from the survey will help shape ongoing improvements to ensure volunteering with EMAS remains a positive, rewarding and sustainable experience for everyone involved."
If you are interested in volunteering in your community, visit the EMAS website for more information www.emas.nhs.uk/join-team-emas/volunteers
