999 Day: National Tribute to Emergency Services Heroes

The UK unites in gratitude for Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day.

This national day, which takes place on 9th September each year, honours the

almost 2 million people including 250,000 first responders who tirelessly work

and volunteer across the NHS, police, fire, ambulance, and search and rescue

services.

999 Day not only serves as a platform to enable the country to show its support

for those who serve, but also aims to increase public understanding of how to

use the emergency services efficiently and responsibly. It highlights the diverse

career and volunteer opportunities available, while also promoting the work of

emergency services charities.

Emergency Services Day has been supported since its inception by His Majesty

The King, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, and the Governments of the

UK, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, alongside all emergency services.

999 Day formally begins at 9am with the raising of 999 Day flags nationwide,

followed by a poignant two minutes’ silence to commemorate the over 7,500

emergency services personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Founded by police officer Tom Scholes-Fogg in 2016, 999 Day was established in

response to the absence of a national day dedicated to honouring the millions of

people who have served in the NHS and emergency services.

Emergency Services Day’s Founder, Tom Scholes-Fogg, said: “On Emergency

Services Day, let us honour those who serve. From the 250,000 first responders who

run into danger and risk their lives each day to protect our communities, to the more

than 1.5 million people serving in other roles and behind the scenes. Their

unwavering commitment and selfless service make a profound difference in our

lives and for that our nation is immensely grateful.”