Helping Fuel HebMRT Rescue Operations

To support the life-saving efforts of the Hebrides Mountain Rescue Team (HebMRT), NHS Western Isles has provided a capital grant to help contribute towards the costs of a replacement operations vehicle, which has been designed as a multipurpose emergency response vehicle, capable of carrying team members, equipment, and casualties.

The donation of £25,000 will allow the team to replace the existing van that has become unreliable and no longer fit for purpose.  The vehicle will house technical rescue equipment, medical first responder equipment (including a defibrillator), as well as the ability to transport up to eight team members. The new vehicle will also be equipped to carry a stretcher and casualty, providing additional capabilities for Search and Rescue (SAR) within the Western Isles.

During 2024, the team had its busiest year yet, responding to 36 incidents. The majority of these were related to high-risk missing persons, other rescues included hill walkers, animal rescues, and aerial drone searches. The team also assists with community events, where they can provide first aid cover and event marshalling.  

HebMRT is made up of 17 volunteers who give up their time to train and help those in need in urban, hill, and moorland environments. Whilst based in Stornoway, HebMRT operates throughout the whole of the Outer Hebrides.   The team is trained in a broad range of skills, including advanced medical training, rigging and other mountaineering skills, search techniques and off-road driving.

Neil Barker, (HEBMRT Treasurer), said “HebMRT provides an essential emergency search and rescue service within the Western Isles. We work closely with all local emergency services to locate and provide care to those in need. We are thankful to NHS Western Isles for this donation, which will help us continue our vital role in helping with emergencies and saving lives.”

NHS Western Isles Chief Executive, Gordon Jamieson, said: “NHS Western Isles is delighted to have supported the purchase of the HebMRT operations vehicle to continue their efforts to rescue those in danger and helping save lives by assisting the community in emergencies."

As part of its fundraising efforts towards the replacement operations vehicle, the team has set up a JustGiving page for donations via: New Team Van Fundraiser – JustGiving

This funding was made available to NHS Western Isles as capital grant funding, separate to revenue and capital core funding allocations for patient care and NHS services/staff. NHS Western Isles understands how difficult the financial situation can be for the third sector and not for profit organisations and bids for Capital Grant funding from NHS Scotland to help support these groups.

Pictured L-R: Pictured with current HebMRT van (L-R): Gordon Jamieson, NHS Western Isles Chief Executive, with members of Hebrides Mountain Rescue Team, Neil Barker and Jacintha Kool.