Serco colleagues from the Restart Scheme have been giving their time and energy to Wales Air Ambulance, creating a lasting legacy in memory of their much-loved colleague, Bella Chandley.
Bella, a mother of two and Employer Engagement Coordinator with Serco, became unwell in 2024 and was taken to Glangwili Hospital, where she was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm. She was transferred by Wales Air Ambulance to University Hospital of Wales for specialist surgery but sadly passed away a few weeks later.
In the months since, Bella’s colleagues have come together to give something back to the service that supported her when she needed it most. Using Serco’s annual volunteer day, teams have volunteered at the Wales Air Ambulance charity shop in Bridgend, visited the Cardiff airbase, and written thank-you letters to fundraisers and supporters.
Emma Wood, Strategic Account Manager for the Restart Scheme, said Bella’s impact on the team is still felt every day.
“Everyone loved Bella. She was charismatic, straight talking and full of life. Losing her at such a young age was a devastating shock for her family, friends and colleagues.”
Bella was also a qualified beekeeper, making honey, wax candles and other products before joining Serco. In her memory, colleagues now wear bee brooches with the message ‘Be More Bella’.
“She’s very much in our thoughts most days,” Emma added. “Her journey made us reflect on the Wales Air Ambulance – it was there for her when she needed it most, and it’s a charity that’s now incredibly close to our hearts.”
As part of their support, colleagues visited Cardiff Heliport to learn more about the lifesaving work carried out by crews across Wales. The team is also planning a series of fundraising activities throughout the year.
“It was inspiring to step inside the helicopter and see what clinicians work with every day,” said Emma. “Speaking to Mark, a Critical Care Practitioner, and Rory, one of the pilots, we were blown away by how humble they are. They’re incredibly brave, and if we can support this service in any way, we absolutely will.”
Emma Grant, Public Affairs Lead for Wales Air Ambulance, said the partnership has been deeply meaningful.
“Bella sounds like an incredible person and is clearly very much missed. She continues to inspire her colleagues, and we’re honoured to work with the team to help create a legacy in her memory.
“From volunteering in our Bridgend shop to visiting Cardiff Heliport and writing thank-you letters to our supporters, the support from Serco colleagues has been wonderful. Partnerships like this help us continue saving lives, and every pound raised really does make a difference.”
Through volunteering, fundraising and remembrance, Bella’s colleagues are ensuring her warmth, generosity and spirit live on — both within Serco and beyond.
