ABP Southampton chooses Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as its 2025 charity of the year

Associated British Ports (ABP) Southampton has chosen the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) as its charity of the year for 2025.

The Port of Southampton supports 1 charity partner throughout the year, uniting staff from various departments to fundraise for a shared and meaningful cause. This charity initiative helps foster positive relationships with local charities and encourages ABP Southampton team members to participate in fundraising events with colleagues they may not usually work with directly. The Port's Social Team organises the events, including a Quiz Night, Summer Festival, raffles, bake-offs, and physical challenges such as running and cycling events. This year, a team from ABP will be participating in the infamous triathlon with a difference - Pedal, Paddle, Pace Event in Winchester on Sunday 13th July 2025.

Staff members at the Port select their charity partner of the year by submitting ideas and then voting for them as a team. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance were this year, the top choice, and ABP Southampton employees are ready to help raise vital funds to support the charity. Last year, the Southampton Port raised £15,500 for ANDYSMANCLUB and hopes to achieve a similar amount this year. The funds raised will assist the charity's planned move to Southampton Airport later this year and help cover general operational costs. It costs around £3,500 for the medical team to attend one incident (mission), and the charity responds to around seven missions a day.

Tom Dynes, General Manager of Landside Operations, said: "We are pleased to support HIOWAA this year. From the Port, we often see the helicopter flying overhead and across Southampton Water, we are proud to support a service that aids our local community. I enjoy getting involved in fundraising and will be hosting our annual quiz night in March, as well as participating in the Pedal, Paddle, Pace event."

Keith Wilson, Director of Income and Engagement at HIOWAA, said: “ABP Southampton forms a vital part of the region – it is a privilege to be partnered with them for 2025. Together, we can make an enormous difference to thousands of patients we respond to each year. Our Operation Airbase appeal has gotten off to a flying start, and the support from the team at ABP Southampton will help us on our way to our goal of £3.6 million.”