Hampshire's ambulance service is 'joining forces' with a neighbouring service.

South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) and South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) will form the South Central and South East Ambulance Group.

The new partnership aims to deliver more reliable and high-quality emergency care through greater collaboration and shared expertise.

Both trusts will continue to operate independently but will collaborate on key priorities such as digital innovation, clinical best practice, and workforce development.

They will also share leadership, with a single chief executive and chair overseeing both trusts to support strategic alignment.

David Eltringham, chief executive of South Central Ambulance Service, said: "This is about levelling up care for every patient in the South East.

"Demand on our services is rising, and this model gives us the ability to respond more consistently, use our resources more effectively, and make sure patients receive the same high standard of care wherever they live."

Patients are expected to benefit from more consistent clinical pathways, reduced variation in care, and improved outcomes.

The group will also focus on care navigation to reduce unnecessary visits to emergency departments, helping patients access the right treatment quickly and safely.

Simon Weldon, chief executive of South East Coast Ambulance Service, said: "This is a forward-looking partnership designed around patients and our people.

Hampshire ambulance service announces 'first-of-its-kind' partnership

"Together we can build stronger teams, provide better support for our staff, and ensure ambulance services across the South East are fit for the future."

The move has been fully supported by NHS England (South East) and aligns with the NHS 10 Year Plan.

Anne Eden, regional director for NHS England in the South East, said: "The proposed move to a group model for our region's two main ambulance service providers is a real opportunity to improve care and access for our patients, while offering better value for money.

"A shared leadership model will ensure both services are fit for the future as the NHS continues to transform to deliver now and in years to come."

The transition to the new South Central and South East Ambulance Group will take place in phases from late 2025 through to 2027.