TASC, the national charity dedicated to providing independent and confidential wellbeing support to the UK’s lifesaving ambulance community, is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracy Nicholls OBE as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees, effective from 6th November 2024.
In her new role, which is voluntary, Tracy will bring a wealth of experience and expertise. Having qualified as a paramedic in 1998, she has spent more than 27 years in NHS ambulance services and became the first paramedic to accept a clinical board role. She is currently the Chief Executive of the College of Paramedics, a position she has held since December 2019 and was awarded an OBE in 2023.
As the incoming Chair, Tracy will lead the charity’s governance and strategic development during a critical period of growth as the charity strives to meet the increasing demand for its services while juggling a tough financial environment.
Commenting on her appointment, Tracy said:
"I am truly honoured to take on the role of TASC’s Chair. The work this charity does to support the wellbeing of all ambulance staff is vital. I look forward to working with the team, trustees, and our supporters to ensure we can expand our reach and provide the essential services needed during such a challenging time for our vast ambulance family."
TASC has been providing critical services to the UK’s ambulance community across the UK since 2015, offering help with mental health, physical recovery, and financial hardships. With the rising pressures faced by ambulance staff, the charity’s services are more important than ever.
Tracy will be taking over from Diane Scott QAM, who left the charity in April 2024 after four years at the helm which saw the charity responding to the terrible impacts of the pandemic on ambulance staff, as well as the creation of the innovative Ambulance Staff Crisis Phoneline. Since Diane’s resignation, the charity has been led by interim Chair, and longtime-serving trustee, Gordon Enstone.
Gordon said:
“I’ve served on the board for a number of years, and it’s been so rewarding to see how TASC has changed and grown over the years. I’m confident that Tracy will bring a fresh perspective to TASC’s work and continue to drive us forward.”
Karl Demain, CEO of TASC, also welcomed the appointment:
"Working in the ambulance service is becoming more challenging, and the demand for our support continues to rise. Tracy's leadership and experience will be instrumental in helping TASC drive us forward and provide more and better support to the UK’s lifesavers.”
For further information about TASC and its services, please visit www.theasc.org.uk