Cornerstone partners with Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust to raise awareness for the need of nationwide mobile and digital infrastructure services
In a move to address the connectivity gaps affecting both emergency response and local economic growth in Cornwall, Cornerstone, the UK’s leading mobile and digital infrastructure services provider, has announced a partnership with Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust. This strategic sponsorship reflects Cornerstone’s commitment to ensuring that “your connected world is always within reach”, not just as a convenience, but as a lifesaving necessity.
For Cornerstone, this partnership comes at a crucial stage in its evolution. Having built a strong foundation in enabling connectivity across the UK, we’re now focusing on partnerships that highlight the real, immediate benefits of mobile coverage for communities. As Pat Coxen, Chief Executive explained, “This is not a vanity project. It’s about saving lives and strengthening communities. Our work with the air ambulance underscores that connectivity is essential infrastructure, critical for emergency services, economic opportunities, and the wellbeing of rural residents.”
Cornerstone is committed to expanding its digital infrastructure services, exploring new products and services. Enabling mobile coverage for the operators and delivering connectivity solutions for industry at large, is never more important than when it means life-saving communications can reach those in critical need.
Through this partnership, we aim to raise awareness to both the incredible work of the pilots and paramedics and the need for robust digital connectivity to support rescue missions, ultimately improving emergency outcomes for people in remote regions. We were recently honoured to celebrate the launch at CAAT’s headquarters, joined by Steven Webb, former Mayor of Truro and campaigner for mobile signals save lives, and Tim Bunting, CAAT’s Chief Executive, and his team.
As Cornwall’s only air ambulance charity, CAAT responds to over 1,000 emergency calls each year, reaching challenging locations like coastlines, beaches and rural moorlands. With Cornwall currently ranked 60th out of 96 UK local authority districts for mobile connectivity, robust digital infrastructure is crucial for timely emergency response.
Pat Coxen, Chief Executive at Cornerstone, commented “This is all about raising awareness and enhancing community safety. Through our partnership, we can work together to highlight the role of connectivity in emergency responses. By advocating for policy changes, such as faster planning approvals, we aim to deliver on our company’s purpose of making connectivity within everyone’s reach”.
Cornerstone’s goal? To work with local authorities and national government to rethink the importance of mobile infrastructure in even the most protected areas, because mobile connectivity doesn’t just connect people, it saves lives.
For media enquiries or further information on this collaboration, please contact media@cornerstone.network
Cornwall is a region defined by its rugged beauty, seasonal shifts, and vibrant communities. Yet, alongside its natural charm, unique infrastructure challenges arise. At Cornerstone, we believe robust digital connectivity should be available to everyone, no matter where they are in the UK, and this commitment has driven our partnership with the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust (CAAT). Our aim is to ensure that Cornwall’s communities, businesses, and emergency services stay connected, especially in times of critical need.
Championing Local Connectivity: A Collaborative Approach
Our partnership with the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust represents a powerful collaboration aimed at reinforcing connectivity in Cornwall. As part of this partnership, we recently spent two days at CAAT’s headquarters, meeting with key figures including Tim Bunting (Chief Executive of CAAT), Steve Garvey (Air Operations Officer and Paramedic), Andrew George (MP), and Steven Webb (former Mayor of Truro and CAAT supporter). Through these discussions, it became clear how transformative mobile connectivity can be, not only for CAAT’s life-saving operations but also for Cornwall’s social, transport, and community infrastructure.
This collaboration also reflects our commitment to Cornwall’s unique challenges. We’re listening to the needs of local organisations and stakeholders, who have shared insights into how reliable mobile connectivity enhances CAAT’s emergency response, supports daily operations, and opens doors for broader community engagement. Cornerstone’s work in Cornwall is a demonstration of how digital infrastructure can uplift communities by providing critical links for health, transport, and education across the region.
Vital Needs for Emergency Services in Cornwall
The Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust’s mission is to provide emergency response services to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, often reaching patients within a mere twelve minutes from the moment they’re called. With Cornwall’s rural landscape and dispersed communities, CAAT’s ability to rapidly transport individuals to specialist hospitals is vital. Their helicopter is more than just a vehicle; it’s a lifeline that connects people in crisis with life-saving healthcare.
Our work with CAAT highlights how essential reliable mobile connectivity is to their operations. CAAT’s team can swiftly coordinate logistics, access critical information, and communicate effectively as they respond to emergencies across the region.
In light of Cornwall’s seasonal population fluctuations, CAAT’s demand peaks during holiday periods, leading to an increase in the need for emergency response services. Recognising this, CAAT is adding an additional helicopter to handle the seasonal influx of visitors. Just as CAAT’s fleet expands to meet demand, so must Cornwall’s mobile infrastructure, which must be adaptable to support residents and tourists alike, offering seamless and reliable connectivity no matter the season.
Social and Educational Challenges in Cornwall
Cornwall faces several socio-economic challenges, being the third poorest county in the UK. Many Cornish residents encounter barriers to education, employment, and healthcare, and as such, Cornerstone recognises the role digital infrastructure plays in supporting these communities. Reliable mobile connectivity can help bridge these gaps by connecting people to essential services, reducing isolation, and creating new opportunities for social engagement and economic activity.
Beyond providing infrastructure, Cornerstone is committed to supporting skill development in Cornwall. Through initiatives such as the CNFE and Apprenticeship Programme, we aim to help develop talent locally, providing career pathways in technology and engineering in a region where access to further education and training is often limited. This commitment to enhancing local opportunity aligns closely with our mission to connect Cornwall’s people with new possibilities for growth and resilience.
Rail and Transport Connectivity in a Seasonal County
The transport needs of Cornwall, including its rail system, are also shaped by the ebb and flow of its population. Cornwall is a popular tourist destination, seeing significant population growth during holidays and festivals. During the recent Connected Britain 2024 event, Chris Bryant raised an essential question regarding this very issue: How can we ensure that Cornwall’s rail systems are sufficiently connected to meet the influx of people during holiday seasons?
This question reflects the broader connectivity needs of Cornwall’s transport systems. It’s clear that both rail and mobile networks must be equipped to serve not only the steady local population but also the surging seasonal visitors. Cornerstone sees an opportunity here to collaborate with the government to ensure Cornwall’s transport systems are digitally equipped, supporting both daily operations and the peaks in demand that seasonal tourism brings. In parallel, we’re dedicated to expanding Cornwall’s mobile infrastructure so that residents and visitors alike can rely on fast, secure connectivity whether travelling by road, rail, or on foot.
Supporting Cornwall’s Social, Vital, and Transport Infrastructure
Our recent meetings with local leaders, including CAAT’s leadership, council representatives, and members of Parliament, affirmed that connectivity is not just about technology—it’s about enhancing everyday life. Reliable connectivity supports vital emergency services like CAAT, powers public transportation, and enables social progress. Our work with CAAT exemplifies how digital infrastructure can support both health and resilience in Cornwall, ensuring that help is always in reach and that no one is left without essential connections.
As we work to expand and strengthen connectivity in Cornwall, Cornerstone remains dedicated to supporting the unique social, educational, and logistical needs of the region. Our partnership with CAAT is a testament to what can be achieved when we prioritise people, community, and innovation in our approach to infrastructure. Together, we’re building a future where Cornwall’s people are always connected to what matters most, no matter where they are or what season it is.
by Pat Coxen, CEO, Cornerstone
Pat joined Cornerstone as CEO in January 2023. He started his career in the British Army, serving for 15 years in the Royal Signals in Telecommunications and Cyber Security and the Royal Engineers in various roles.
by Julian Shariff, Head of Property & Estates, Cornerstone
The Shared Rural Network (SRN) is a collaborative initiative between the UK Government, mobile network operators, and local authorities, aimed at extending mobile coverage to rural areas. This ambitious project ensures that even the most remote communities have access to reliable mobile and broadband services, helping to bridge the digital divide and foster economic growth in underserved regions.
The SRN has made significant progress, particularly in the Swansea Bay City Deal region, where the deployment of advanced 4G and 5G-ready infrastructure is delivering high-quality mobile coverage to rural areas. This improved connectivity supports local businesses, enhances public services, and provides residents with better access to digital resources, empowering them to participate fully in the modern economy.
By adopting a community-first approach, we are ensuring that infrastructure development is sensitive to regional needs. Working closely with local authorities and planning bodies, our goal is to deliver solutions that not only improve connectivity but also respect the natural environment. Shared infrastructure helps reduce the number of masts required, minimising environmental impact while maximising coverage.
The planning process for new infrastructure is also designed to be inclusive. Local residents are invited to participate in public consultations, ensuring that their views are considered as part of the decision-making process. This collaborative effort enables us to build networks that truly serve the people who live and work in rural communities.
At Cornerstone, our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is fundamental to who we are. We believe that fostering a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered is essential to driving innovation and excellence. This ethos was proudly showcased at the Institute of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP) Annual Dinner and Awards, where we not only sponsored the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Award but also celebrated the outstanding achievements of three of our colleagues.
Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for a Stronger Industry
Our sponsorship of the DEI Award reflects our dedication to building a more inclusive and diverse telecoms industry. Spearheaded by our Chief People Officer, Ginette Kilroy, who proudly took to the stage to present the award, this sponsorship reinforces Cornerstone’s belief that diversity drives innovation. By embracing the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals from all backgrounds, we are creating a dynamic and forward-thinking environment where everyone can contribute to the success of the industry.
At Cornerstone, we have embedded inclusive practices at the heart of our strategy, ensuring that our workforce represents the diverse communities we serve. Through initiatives led by our DEI working group and by actively engaging with employees, we continuously improve our practices, promoting inclusivity at all levels of the organisation. We are proud to champion an industry where every voice matters.
Celebrating the Achievements of Cornerstone’s Leaders
The ITP Awards night was a celebration of industry leaders driving change, and Cornerstone was honoured to see three of our own recognised for their contributions:
Helen Main – Telecoms Surveyor of the Year Award
Helen Main, our Head of Delivery, won the ‘Highly Commended’ award ‘Telecoms Surveyor of the Year’. Her exceptional work in overseeing the successful delivery of key telecoms projects across the UK has set new benchmarks for the industry. Helen’s passion for ensuring that infrastructure projectsare not only efficient but also sustainably managed has made her an invaluable leader at Cornerstone. This award highlights her commitment to excellence and her ability to meet the evolving demands of the industry with innovation and care.
Andy Train – Special Recognition for Bridging the Skills Gap
Andy Train, Cornerstone’s Chief Network Officer, was honoured with a ‘Special Recognition’ for his work on Bridging the Skills Gap. As Chair of the apprenticeship trailblazer group, Andy led the creation of the Cellular Network Field Engineer (CNFE) apprenticeship scheme, which aims to equip both new entrants and experienced professionals with the necessary skills to excel in a fast-evolving industry. His dedication to standardising training and developing the next generation of telecoms professionals has ensured the sustainability of the sector. This special recognition by industry peers is a reflection of his far-reaching impact on shaping the future of telecommunications.
Belinda Fawcett – Woman in Technology Award
Belinda Fawcett, Cornerstone’s General Counsel and Director of Property and Estates, was a finalist for the ‘Woman in Technology’ Award. With over 20 years of experience in telecommunications, Belinda has been a driving force behind key initiatives that support the growth and sustainability of the sector. As Chair of the Mobile Infrastructure Forum, she has championed greater diversity and inclusion in the industry while leading strategic efforts to expand digital connectivity across the UK. This nomination is a testament to Belinda’s leadership, dedication, and her unwavering commitment to empowering women in technology.
Looking Ahead: Building a Diverse and Sustainable Future
As the UK’s leading digital infrastructure provider, we understand the importance of fostering a diverse workforce that is prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow. The recognition of Helen, Andy and Belinda at the ITP Awards serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible work being done within Cornerstone and across the industry to create a more inclusive and sustainable future.
By supporting initiatives like the CNFE apprenticeship scheme, promoting diversity at all levels, and ensuring that our infrastructure projects reflect the needs of a connected society, Cornerstone is committed to driving positive change. We believe that when we embrace diversity and empower individuals, we not only build stronger teams but also a stronger industry — one that is ready to face the challenges of the future with innovation, resilience, and inclusivity.
Cornerstone, the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure services company, has successfully concluded its platinum sponsorship of Connected Britain 2024. The event, held over two days, provided an exceptional platform to discuss the future of connectivity, collaboration, and innovation in the digital infrastructure space.
CEO Pat Coxen reflected on the event’s success: “Connected Britain 2024 has been an outstanding opportunity to showcase Cornerstone’s contributions to the UK’s digital economy. We had engaging discussions on the future of connectivity, the evolution of mobile and fixed networks, and the collaborative efforts required to make the next generation of infrastructure a reality. Our presence here underscores Cornerstone’s pivotal role in driving the UK’s connectivity goals forward.”
One of the key highlights was Cornerstone’s installation of a live mini tower at the event, in partnership with one of their trusted engineering partners Swann Engineering Group Limited. This installation exemplified Cornerstone’s capability in infrastructure delivery, marking a significant part of its brand relaunch, which was led by Chief Customer Officer Miranda van Gestel. The relaunch signals Cornerstone’s evolution from a traditional infrastructure provider to a full-service partner in the mobile and digital infrastructure space.
As part of its showcase, Cornerstone introduced its innovative mySite app, designed for landlords to streamline access to its extensive portfolio of 15,700 sites across the UK. The app offers greater visibility and control to its landlords, helping them manage site access and communication more efficiently. Alongside the mySite app, Cornerstone also highlighted its work on Locken, smart locks across Cornerstone’s estate to improve site safety and security.
Chief Customer Officer Miranda van Gestel commented, “The reason we showcased our tower installation at the event was to make the invisible visible – to highlight how we’re empowering the communities we serve with more connected, secure, and sustainable infrastructure.”
The event culminated in a powerful keynote address by Cornerstone’s Chief Sales and Commercial Officer Jamie Hayes, who emphasised the company’s impact across the Four Corners of the UK. Additionally, Pat Coxen joined a panel discussion with fellow industry leaders, sharing insights on how collaboration and innovation with government and local authorities will drive progress for the industry and the UK’s technological advancement.
With five months of preparation behind the event, Cornerstone is proud of the connections made, the ideas exchanged, and the new partnerships forged. The company looks forward to building on this momentum as it continues to shape the future of digital connectivity in the UK.
Cornerstone, the UK’s leading provider of mobile and digital infrastructure solutions, launches its new brand identity at Connected Britain 2024, the UK’s largest digital economy event. This significant brand relaunch marks a new chapter for Cornerstone, reflecting its evolution from an infrastructure provider to a full-service partner in the mobile and digital infrastructure sector.
Cornerstone will unveil its new identity during the two-day event, with Chief Executive Officer Pat Coxen and Chief Sales and Commercial Officer Jamie Hayes leading keynote discussions on the future of connectivity in the UK. The relaunch also features a collaboration with ITN News, showcasing Cornerstone’s critical role in enabling a digitally connected society.
Website relaunch and expanding portfolio
Coinciding with the brand launch, Cornerstone will also unveil a completely redesigned website, showcasing its expanding portfolio of solutions. With the growing need for new digital infrastructure solutions, from 5G to IoT and rural connectivity, the website shows the broader role of infrastructure in emerging coverage and power solutions, introducing Coverage as a Service (CaaS) and Power as a Service (PaaS), along with the Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) portfolio that Cornerstone is leading the industry in.
The website also reflects Cornerstone’s commitment to customer value and sustainability, providing detailed information on its new service offerings, its continued investment in green initiatives, and its vision for a connected, sustainable future. The refreshed brand and website highlight Cornerstone’s leadership in enabling the UK’s digital economy, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and innovation.
Tower installation: bringing infrastructure to life
As part of its sponsorship at Connected Britain, Cornerstone is offering attendees a unique opportunity to experience its technology first-hand with the installation of a specially designed mini tower at the event. Designed and installed in collaboration with one of Cornerstone’s engineering partners, Swann Engineering, this display demonstrated the critical role of mobile infrastructure in today’s digital landscape. The installation highlighted the engineering excellence behind Cornerstone’s 15,700 sites, which form the backbone of the UK’s mobile networks.
A new era for Cornerstone
Miranda van Gestel, Chief Customer Officer, commented on the launch: “Our new brand identity reflects who we are today and our vision for the future. We are incredibly proud of the journey that has brought us here and are excited to unveil a refreshed brand that better communicates our role as a key enabler of digital transformation in the UK. As we continue to innovate and expand our service offering, we are more committed than ever to working with our customers, partners, and landlords to drive ubiquitous connectivity across the UK.”
Pat Coxen, Chief Executive Officer, added: “Connected Britain 2024 is the perfect platform to introduce the new Cornerstone. This event showcases the best in UK digital innovation, and we are thrilled to be leading conversations around the future of connectivity.”
Keynote appearances at Connected Britain:
Cornerstone will be showcasing on the Gigabit Mainstage at the following times during Connected Britain 2024:
10.40 am – ‘Achieving Truly Ubiquitous Connectivity in the UK’ a panel including Pat Coxen, CEO
5.20 pm – ‘Enabling a Digitally Connected Society: How Cornerstone Connects the Four Corners of the UK’ with Jamie Hayes, Chief of Sales and Commercial Officer
5.40 pm – ‘Digital Britain: Connecting our Nation’ with ITN Business
Looking forward
As Cornerstone continues its ambitious journey, it remains focused on leading the digital infrastructure sector while maintaining its commitment to environmental sustainability and customer value. The brand refresh solidifies its position as a trusted partner, driving connectivity and digital transformation for mobile network operators, businesses, and communities across the UK.
For more information about Cornerstone’s new brand identity and its expanding portfolio, visit the new website at www.cornerstone.network and contact Cornerstone’s media team at media@cornerstone.network.
