This week’s Wednesday Wisdom comes from Rose Jackson-Nichols, Fundraising and Events Manager at Norfolk Accident Rescue Service (NARS) – a charity dedicated to providing lifesaving medical support across our county. We spoke to Rose about the incredible work NARS carries out, the events that make a lasting difference, and what motivates her in her role.
Q: Tell us more about Norfolk Accident Rescue Service and how people can support you.
“NARS is an incredible charity who provide lifesaving support across Norfolk. Our team is made up over 50 doctors, nurses, paramedics and emergency responders, who volunteer their time to give back to the community. Responding 24/7 365 days a year, our teams are tasked by the East of England Ambulance Trust to respond to 999 calls in life-threatening situations. These include cardiac arrests, road traffic collisions, seizures and multiple other emergencies where every second counts.
Whilst our team are responding to over 2000 incidents per year, we’re often overlooked as a charity and mistaken for the NHS. My role as Fundraising and Events Manager is to grow awareness of our work and get people onboard with our mission. We are continuously striving to keep our name out there, grow our community and raise vital funds to pay for the equipment and vehicles that keep our teams on the road.”
Q: How do you convert attendees into loyal supporters?
“I think as soon as people understand what we do, they want to help! Having them in a room and teaching them about NARS is the first step and then keeping in touch post-event is key, ensuring they continue to see latest news and what challenges the charity faces going forward.“
Q: What event has made the biggest impact on raising awareness and support?
“We hosted our 55th year anniversary ball in October 2025 which was a huge success. The evening raised £76,500 and also helped us to spread the word about NARS. Part of the evening included an acted video showing what happens in a real cardiac arrest – and whilst it was frightening for people to watch, it truly brought home the message of the charity.”
Q: Which event you’ve organised had the biggest impact, and what made it stand out?
“Again, I would say our charity ball! I think what made it so special was the investment made in a fabulous venue, incredible entertainment and a brilliant host. We also worked with Huxley Events to help us deliver the evening, which allowed us to focus on the finer details.
Whilst the initial expense was high, the result was a memorable and impactful evening that had people talking for weeks afterwards. I’m so glad we took the risk with so many of our fundraising activities on the night, it was a hectic lead up to the event but totally worth it in the end!”
Q: What’s your personal favourite event to organise, and what made it special?
“So it was actually in my previous role at Quickfire, where I organised our Christmas social each year. We would split people into teams and give them £50 cash to do an Apprentice-style scavenger hunt challenge. These would include things like buying the strangest item they could find in a charity shop, getting a video of them dancing with a stranger, getting a photo with a cute dog etc. We’d then meet up at a venue for food and would judge the winner. It was such a laugh and a great way to bring the team together to something a bit different!”
To learn more or support NARS, visit NARS | Norfolk Accident Rescue Service or look out for their next event on www.norfolkevents.uk including their forthcoming golf day at Barnham Broom in April – NARS Charity Golf Day – Norfolk Events.
