A Marlborough firm of psychotherapists has got on board with Wiltshire Air Ambulance, supporting people whom the charity has helped in coming to terms with their accident, or the loss of a loved one.
Every year, hundreds of people who have experienced the services of the air ambulance first hand, or are related to those who have been flown to hospital, visit the airbase – at Police Headquarters in Devizes – to thank paramedics and pilots.
This can be an emotional experience, especially in the case of families who may well have lost a loved one in an accident where, despite their best efforts, the clinical staff were unable to save a life.
Air Ambulance chief executive David Philpott said: “Over the past few months we have been working with See for Miles in an informal capacity, and have been very impressed with their skill in helping people through the effects of trauma, forced lifestyle changes, bereavement and stress.
“Their many years’ experience in assisting members of the armed forces suffering Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome means that they are uniquely equipped to meet the challenges that a serious accident throws up.”
Geoff Miles, principal psychologist at See for Miles said, which is based at Hughenden Yard in Marlborough, said: “We are very aware of the emotional and psychological effects that an incident can impact on a patient and their family, friends and colleagues and realise that if these effects are dealt with and tackled early on, it can minimise impact later. We are proud to support Wiltshire Air Ambulance in this way.”
Last year, See for Miles provided two days of training for Wiltshire Air Ambulance medics who attended a critical care paramedic course organised in conjunction with Cambridge University Hospitals Trust.
