EMED Group has confirmed the transfer of Bristol Ambulance EMS operations and assets following completion of an agreement on 22 May 2026.
The transfer has been carefully planned to support continuity of patient transport and healthcare services across Bristol and the South West, with services continuing throughout the transition period.
Approximately 315 colleagues, 120 ambulances and operational services across seven depots will transfer into EMED Group as part of the agreement.
EMED Group is now working closely with local operational teams, NHS partners and stakeholders to support continuity of services, maintain patient care and provide operational stability throughout the transition.
Craig Smith, Group CEO of EMED Group, said:
“Our immediate priority is supporting patients, colleagues and NHS partners through this transition and ensuring services continue safely and effectively.
Bristol Ambulance EMS has built a committed and experienced workforce delivering important services across the region, and we are pleased to welcome colleagues into EMED Group.
We recognise this may feel like an uncertain time for some people and we are committed to working closely with colleagues, healthcare partners and stakeholders over the coming weeks to provide support, stability and reassurance throughout the transition.”
Rob Johnson, CEO at Bristol Ambulance EMS said:
“Our priority throughout this process has been protecting continuity of service for patients and supporting our colleagues across the organisation. EMED Group has demonstrated a clear commitment to maintaining services, supporting teams and working closely with NHS partners during the transition period.
I would also like to thank colleagues across Bristol Ambulance EMS for their professionalism, resilience and continued dedication to patient care throughout what has understandably been a challenging period.”
Patient transport and operational services will continue on a business-as-usual basis, with patients advised to continue attending appointments and booking transport through existing arrangements unless advised otherwise.
From 25 May onwards, EMED Group will support local teams to re-establish operational continuity, with an initial focus on orientation, relationship building and service stabilisation before wider integration work begins during June.
Further updates will be shared with colleagues, partners and stakeholders as appropriate.
