The Patient Care Services tier of the organisation plays a dynamic role in the care, management and transportation of patients to and from healthcare facilities, who do not require the skills and interventions of a Paramedic or EMT. Ambulance Care Attendants provide a quality, caring service for those patients who may require transport based on mobility need, for example, a wheelchair user or patient on a stretcher, and/or for patients who may require oxygen therapy.
Though working as an Ambulance Care Attendant is a rewarding career in itself, the NIAS follows a nationally recognised education and development framework for career progression. The Patient Care Services tier provides an excellent entry level for those wishing to progress their career to EMT and Paramedic, subject to meeting the criteria for these posts.
Entry Qualifications for Ambulance Care Attendant Training
Previous experience is not essential, nor is it essential to hold formal educational qualifications, but applicants should hold a full unrestricted driving licence, which must include categories C1 and D1. Applicants with up to 3 penalty points on their licence will be considered.
All shortlisted applicants will be required to undertake numeracy and literacy tests, and a driving assessment.
The Selection and Recruitment Process
| Stage 1 | Return completed application form to Human Resources Department before the stated close-down date (move on to Stage 2, if successfully shortlisted) |
| Stage 2 | Undertake 2 written tests Test 1 – Literacy Test Test 2 – Numeracy Test |
| Stage 3 | – Undertake a driving test with a qualified ambulance Driving Instructor – Test to be completed in an ambulance type vehicle – Driving Licence check: you must present both parts B, B1 and C1 +D1 |
| Stage 4 | Interview (references will be sought at this stage) |
| Stage 5 | Medical at the NIAS Occupational Health Department |
| Stage 6 | If you successfully complete Stages 1-5, a pre-employment consultancy check will be carried out. The Human Resources Department will contact you with an official offer of employment and a start date for your four weeks training for NIAS Patient Care Service/Intermediate Care Service. |
Training
Training to become an Ambulance Care Attendant will be provided by Tutors from the Regional Ambulance Training Centre (RATC). These tutors themselves have gone through rigorous training and development overseen by the UK Ambulance Service Awarding Body, IHCD (London Qualifications Ltd) and they will provide you with first class training, advice and guidance.
You will undertake 2 IHCD modules, which are delivered on a residential basis to allow time for study and practice. You will receive pre-learning materials at least 2 weeks before the start of training to allow you to prepare for the course.
Both modules are accredited by the IHCD (London Qualifications Ltd), the governing body for all ambulance awards. The training provides essential information and teaches practical skills to equip the Ambulance Care Attendant to perform their role as effectively and efficiently as possible. The knowledge and skills gained will enable the student to become a competent and caring Ambulance Care Attendant.
Modules covered include: Organisation and management; non-emergency patients, moving and lifting patients, illness and injury.