South East and South Central to come together

Patients across the South East will benefit from more consistent, high-quality ambulance care as South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) and South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) come together to form the South Central and South East Ambulance Group – the first of its kind in England.

The new group model marks a proactive move to strengthen patient care, ensure sustainable services, and build a more resilient ambulance system across the region.

By working together more closely, the two services will be better placed to share expertise and resources, harness innovation, and invest in improvements that directly benefit patients.

Through the new group model, both Trusts will continue to operate independently, retaining the flexibility to meet the specific needs of their local communities, while collaborating on key priorities such as digital innovation, clinical best practice, and workforce development.

To strengthen alignment and ensure shared priorities are delivered effectively, the Group will introduce a shared leadership model, with a single Chief Executive and Chair supporting both Trusts. This will enable greater strategic coordination while maintaining each organisation’s local accountability and identity.

The move is fully supported by NHS England (South East) and aligns with the NHS 10 Year Plan, ensuring ambulance services across the region remain safe, equitable, and financially sustainable.

The transition to the new South Central and South East Ambulance Group will take place in phases from late 2025 through to 2027.

Source: South East Coast Ambulance Service