The Air Ambulance Service will be opening a new boutique store in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, helping to raise vital funds to support their lifesaving missions.
The new store will open on Friday 29 May 2026 in Ilkeston, located between Derby and Nottingham on the River Erewash.
The opening will be the first of its kind for the charity – a dual-branded store for both Your Local Air Ambulance (YLAA) and the National Children’s Air Ambulance (NCAA).
Your Local Air Ambulance brings rapid emergency care to communities across Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland. Last year the charity responded to a total of 548 incidents in Derbyshire, delivering advanced care at the scene and getting patients the best possible chance of survival.
The National Children’s Air Ambulance operates across England, Scotland and Wales, providing specialist transfers for critically ill babies and children. Working alongside eleven NHS paediatric teams, combining their specialist expertise with the charity’s aircraft to safely transfer young patients to the care they need.
The charity receives no funding from the government or National Lottery and relies entirely on donations to raise the much-needed funds for each mission. The support from the local community keeps its helicopters flying, crew operational and together, helping to save more lives.
Lee Corkill, Retail Area Manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening a new concept dual-branded charity shop in Ilkeston. We have a range of stores across Derbyshire and are excited to be joining the Ilkeston community.”
“Please visit our store to grab a bargain, chat about volunteering opportunities, or donate your pre-loved items. Every visit helps to fund the vital work of our crews 24/7, 365 days a year,” he added.
For more information about our stores, please visit: https://theairambulanceservice.org.uk/charity-shops/
The Air Ambulance Service comprises of Your Local Air Ambulance bringing rapid emergency care and the National Children’s Air Ambulance, a unique hospital transfer service for critically ill children and babies across the UK. The charity has launched its ‘Big Bases Appeal’ to help fund the future of its lifesaving work across the region. To learn more or make a donation, please visit: https://theairambulanceservice.org.uk/big-bases-appeal/
