A UNION has launched its second attack on Yorkshire Ambulance Service as inspectors conduct an independent investigation into its performance.

Unite has revealed that almost 11,000 emergency calls were downgraded by the service last year, meaning they needed a less urgent response, though the service has defended its record and states its previous performance has been audited and found to be satisfactory.

The Care Quality Commission is conducting a service inspection, which is part of an application for it to be granted foundation status, which would give more freedom in the way it is financed and operated.

Unite has already claimed the service has failed in 11 out of 12 consecutive months to meet its target for getting to the most immediate ‘red’ emergency incidents within the deadline given.

Unite general secretary, Len McCluskey said: “There needs to be a thorough investigation into allegations that the service could be gambling with people’s lives. Despite its failings, YAS is brazenly attempting to become a foundation trust which would give the board greater powers.”

However, Ian Brandwood, executive director of people and engagement at Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said: “We continue to strongly refute the misleading claims of Unite, which represents just eight per cent of our workforce. “We don’t agree with the serious allegations relating to the accuracy of our emergency call coding and financial accounts, which are both regularly audited by external bodies and have been signed off with high assurance.”