Advancing Training and Patient Safety at ScotSTAR

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity is proud to support ScotSTAR (Scottish Specialist Transport and Retrieval) with funding for vital training equipment that improves patient safety and team readiness.

ScotSTAR, a division of the Scottish Ambulance Service, provides life-saving transport and retrieval services for critically ill babies, children, and adults across Scotland. Operating 24/7, ScotSTAR ensures patients receive expert care while being transported via ambulance, helicopter, or fixed-wing aircraft. Based at Glasgow Airport, the team serves the whole of Scotland, including its islands and remote communities.

“Our team responds to some of the most urgent and complex cases, including premature babies needing neonatal care, children with severe injuries, and those requiring specialist treatment for life-threatening illnesses. For families in rural and island areas, our service ensures children receive the care they need as quickly and safely as possible.”

To support ScotSTAR’s work, Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity funded a patient monitor simulator. This advanced equipment replicates the monitors and defibrillators used in real-life situations, offering the ScotSTAR team a highly realistic training experience.

“Much like a flight simulator for pilots, this monitor simulator allows us to rehearse medical emergencies using the exact equipment we rely on daily. It’s already proving invaluable in training sessions, helping us improve our teamwork, decision-making, and response times”

The equipment is used regularly by consultants, registrars, and advanced paramedics. Having access to this simulated environment ensures the team can prepare for high-pressure scenarios with confidence and precision.

“This simulator ensures we’re ready for any situation. Practicing under realistic conditions gives us the tools we need to provide the best possible care, no matter where or when we’re called.”

Every year, ScotSTAR transports hundreds of children from all across Scotland to hospitals where they can receive specialised care. The dedication and skill of the ScotSTAR team, combined with the support of advanced equipment and training, make this vital work possible.

“On behalf of the entire ScotSTAR team, I want to express our heartfelt thanks to Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity and to every member of the public who supports them with donations. Your generosity has made this invaluable resource possible."

Douglas Maxwell, Consultant in retrieval medicine at ScotSTAR.