Mintivo, an IT services and solutions company based in Chippenham, has announced a significant partnership with Wiltshire Air Ambulance, providing strategic IT support and spearheading a fundraising initiative to keep the crucial service operational. The partnership, which launched earlier this year, aims to support the air ambulance’s efforts in saving lives across Wiltshire.
Mark Adams, Director of People and Culture at Mintivo, said the decision to formally adopt the charity as their fundraising cause was a natural progression, given the company’s existing involvement. “We’ve been working closely with the air ambulance in an IT capacity, and it made perfect sense to further our support. This service is vital to the community, and we’re excited to do our part to help keep it flying,” Adams said.
Mintivo, which specialises in managed IT support, consultancy, cyber security, and automation, has committed to a five-year partnership with Wiltshire Air Ambulance. In addition to providing essential IT support, the company is determined to raise both awareness and funds for the charity. The partnership also aligns with Mintivo’s broader goals as the firm works towards gaining B-Corp certification, a recognition for businesses prioritising social and environmental performance.
The company, which has over 30 staff, will display a dedicated air ambulance information stand in its reception area, featuring posters and leaflets to raise awareness of the charity’s work. Mintivo is also setting up a contactless donation point to encourage contributions from visitors. “We hope that by featuring the air ambulance prominently in our offices, we can help people appreciate the remarkable work it does,” Adams explained.
Mintivo’s fundraising efforts will include a range of events, such as a skydive and a raffle, and the company plans to launch a JustGiving page to track donations. Adams added that the team is exploring other creative ways to raise funds and will regularly invite Wiltshire Air Ambulance staff to their monthly company meetings. Staff will also have the opportunity to visit the air ambulance base in Semington for a tour, giving them an insight into the daily operations of the service. “Seeing the work first-hand really brings home the importance of what they do,” Adams said.
The company has set an ambitious fundraising target of £5,000, which would cover the cost of at least one lifesaving mission. Adams hopes this goal will resonate with staff and inspire them to take part. “To know that we’ve potentially saved a life by reaching our target is a fantastic feeling,” he added.
Fraser Normington, Fundraising Manager at Wiltshire Air Ambulance, expressed his gratitude for Mintivo’s support, saying: “It costs £4.5 million a year to keep our service running, which is over £12,000 per day. The generosity of Mintivo will make a real difference, and we’re looking forward to working with them on their fundraising challenges.”
In the first half of 2024, Wiltshire Air Ambulance completed 682 missions, including 397 in its Bell 429 helicopter and 285 in critical care cars. The charity’s lifesaving work is entirely funded by donations.
Adams emphasised that the partnership is not only beneficial for the charity but also for Mintivo, highlighting the company’s commitment to the local community. “We’re proud to support such an essential service that we see in the skies every day. It’s an incredible organisation, and we hope to inspire others to get involved too,” he said.
For more information about Wiltshire Air Ambulance, visit www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk. To learn more about Mintivo’s services, go to www.mintivo.co.uk.
