Employer:
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Location:
Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, and Merseyside
Salary:
£21,730–£23,177 per annum (Band 3)
About the Role
As an Ambulance Care Assistant, you will play a critical role in the healthcare system by providing safe, timely, and compassionate non-emergency patient transportation. This position focuses on assisting patients with medical or clinical needs who require reliable, empathetic support to attend appointments, treatments, or other healthcare services.
Your role extends beyond transportation, as you will be tasked with ensuring patients feel safe and valued during their journey. This includes offering necessary assistance, such as maneuvering wheelchairs or guiding patients who may be unsteady. Maintaining dignity, empathy, and care throughout each interaction is fundamental to delivering excellent service.
You will be part of a team that operates across a variety of shifts, covering hours between 06:00 and 01:00, including weekends and public holidays. Shifts can range from 8 to 10 hours, ensuring flexibility while meeting the needs of patients and the service.
Main Responsibilities
- Provide safe and effective patient transportation to and from healthcare facilities.
- Assist patients with mobility challenges, ensuring they can access vehicles safely and comfortably.
- Apply appropriate skills, equipment, and care techniques within the scope of training and competency.
- Maintain accurate and clear records of journey documentation for each patient.
- Respond empathetically to patients feeling unwell during transport, offering appropriate assistance promptly.
- Adhere to all organizational policies and procedures, including infection control and health and safety standards.
About North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
The North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust (NWAS) is dedicated to providing a range of crucial healthcare services, including:
- Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services (PTS): Delivering dependable transport for patients unable to travel unaided due to medical or clinical conditions.
- Emergency Services: Operating 24/7, 365 days a year to deliver life-saving interventions and emergency medical transport.
- NHS 111 Service: Providing fast, non-emergency medical advice and support to ensure patients receive the right care.
- Major Incident Response: Collaborating with other emergency services to ensure community safety during large-scale incidents.
NWAS prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive organization, striving to better represent the communities it serves while fostering a supportive, respectful, and understanding work environment.
Person Specification
Essential Skills:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with patients from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within a team.
- Competency in completing documentation accurately and efficiently.
- Empathy, patience, and an approachable demeanor to support vulnerable individuals.
Qualifications:
- Educated to Level 1 literacy and numeracy standards, or equivalent experience in a related role.
- A valid UK driving license with no more than 3 endorsement points (up to 6 points may be considered in exceptional circumstances).
- Willingness to undertake further training as required.
Desirable Experience:
- First aid experience with organizations like St. John Ambulance or the Red Cross.
- Prior experience in care roles, either professionally or through volunteer work.
Training and Career Development
The role includes a three-week pre-employment training course to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills required to succeed. Additionally, NWAS provides:
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
- Access to a structured career pathway, supporting your growth within the healthcare sector.
Benefits
Working at NWAS comes with a wide range of benefits, including:
- Annual Leave: Up to 33 days, exclusive of bank holidays.
- NHS Pension Scheme: Secure your future with a comprehensive pension plan.
- Discount Programs: Access NHS-specific discounts on shopping, holidays, and childcare.
- Cycle to Work and Car Lease Schemes: Supporting sustainable and economical commuting options.
- Employee Assistance Program for wellbeing and mental health support.
Application Process
Candidates must complete a driving assessment before being invited to interviews. These assessments are held on weekdays, and interviews will take place on 1st and 2nd February 2025 in Bolton. Successful applicants will be required to pass pre-employment checks before commencing training on either 14th or 21st April 2025.
NWAS will also host online support sessions to guide applicants:
- Thursday, 23 January 2025, 12:00–13:00
- Tuesday, 28 January 2025, 09:00–10:00
- Wednesday, 29 January 2025, 16:00–17:00
For further details, contact Catherine Morrison at [email protected].
Commitment to Equality and Diversity
The North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust values equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly underrepresented groups, to create a workforce reflective of the communities we serve.
If you are passionate about making a positive impact on patients’ lives and contributing to the healthcare system, apply today to join a supportive and rewarding organization.
