AST Ambulance Service

At AST we understand the unique circumstances surrounding people with Mental Health problems. Our team recognise that these issues can affect anyone and can range from common issues or temporary incapacity right through to serious long term conditions. Our skilled multi disciplinary team of Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics and Ambulance staff are experienced and at ease in caring for all categoriesof patient with mental health issues from the common to the complex patient who can often perceivedas being difficult to deal with. Our priority for all patients remains the preservation of dignity and respect as a human being. Our philosophy is that by applying this principle, whilst in our care the patient will experience their transfer, whether from hospital airport or home, with as little stress as possible. Whilst our team are always happy to lend a listening sympathetic ear on a journey, our practitioners are acutely aware that we will not treat and cure mental health issues in the back of an ambulance.

AST Ambulance Service are regular suppliers of transport for patients with mental health issues to Guys and St Thomas' Hospitals in central London, as well as The Mayday Hospital in Croydon.

• AST complies with multi agency public protection arrangements
• Specialist low profile vehicles available if required
• Secure Ambulance available
• 3 and 4 person crews if required
• Staff trained in restraint techniques

Whilst most of our patients willingly travel with us and praise the care given by AST staff, some patients will be so ill that it is necessary for our colleagues to enforce a committalunder section of the Mental Health Act, or that a decision has to be taken about their capacity to refuse transport for treatment.

• Staff trained in Emergency 2 stage patient assessment under the Mental Health Act
• Full audit trail of patient assessment and open communication with local facilities
• Recognition of patients that could be considered as 'Vulnerable adults'

All AST staff are aware of their duty of care to protect both adults and children in our care and are fully versed on company policyin this area. Arrangements are in place for communication through a multi agency approach to reporting of safeguarding issues, and actions to take in an emergency.

For the transport of people with mental health issues, with AST you could not be in better, more reliable and professional hands.