Recognising our Paramedics on International Paramedics Day

On International Paramedics Day, we recognise the incredible contribution of paramedics across the world – professionals delivering compassionate, skilled care in the most challenging circumstances. At HUC, we are proud to work alongside colleagues whose commitment to patient care continues to make a real difference – both on the frontline and behind the scenes.

Having joined 18 months ago, James works as both a Clinical Advisor and Clinical Navigator, demonstrating the adaptability paramedics bring to healthcare.

James’ journey into the profession is rooted in both passion and determination. Reflecting on what inspired him, he shares, “I suppose two things; I had a bit of first aid experience prior to applying to the Ambulance Service in 2011. Secondly, it’s because someone told me I couldn’t!” he explains, reflecting on how he set out to prove a former trainer wrong. This resilience is a defining characteristic of many paramedics, who often overcome challenges to pursue a career dedicated to helping others.

For James, the day itself is about global recognition, highlighting “the importance of all the diverse aspects of the role” and bringing awareness to the vital work paramedics do across different healthcare settings.

His frontline experience has also shaped the way he supports patients in his current role at HUC. James explains, “without the years spent working frontline, and the other experiences I have had would not allow me to be effective as a Clinical Advisor!” This insight highlights the value of practical, real-world experience in delivering high-quality patient care.

James is also keen to challenge misconceptions: “Paramedics are hugely autonomous clinicians… we can treat a range of conditions at home and make critical decisions.” His message to colleagues is one of resilience and unity: “Keep going… there is always one more job!” – a reminder of the shared commitment and resilience that unites paramedics across the globe.

Richard’s paramedic journey spans more than 23 years, and his career reflects both deep experience and continuous growth. Joining HUC in January 2025 as a Clinical Advisor, now works across multiple roles, supporting 111 as a clinical floor walker and CNAV, alongside his position as a Home Visiting ACP. Reflecting on his path, Richard says he “always wanted to be a paramedic” and, after university, returned to that ambition, beginning in patient transport before progressing to an advanced paramedic role. Over the years, his career has taken him across community care, urgent treatment settings, and general practice, before ultimately finding his place at HUC. “From day 1 I felt part of a family,” he says.

For Richard, International Paramedics Day is less about recognition and more about understanding. It is a chance, he says, “to recognise that paramedics are human – we care and we struggle and we keep trying to do the very best for our patients.” It also shines a light on the wide-ranging and evolving roles paramedics now hold across healthcare.

Richard’s paramedic background shapes everything he does. “It’s not so much I work as a paramedic but I am a paramedic and it defines me,” he explains. Kindness, empathy, and attention are non-negotiable in his approach to patient care. At HUC, he brings this ethos into every patient interaction, ensuring each person receives his full attention and the highest standard of care.

There are also many misconceptions about the role paramedics play today. As Richard explains, “we are not just ambulance drivers.” Paramedics now work across a wide range of healthcare settings, from community services to specialist roles, making a difference in countless ways. What people may not see, however, is the lasting impact of the work. “We do not just switch it all off when we finish work,” he says. “We are constantly in ‘paramedic mode’… Paramedics carry the weight of every job they attend” – a reminder of the dedication and emotional resilience required in this profession.

Day, Richard shares a message for his colleagues that speaks to both pride and unity. “We have one of the greatest roles in the healthcare system… I would not want to be anything else,” he says. As the profession continues to evolve, he encourages the next generation to carry forward the highest standards and support one another. “We may work autonomously but we are a team – share the load and don’t carry the weight of the job on your shoulders alone.”

Today, we thank James, Richard, and all our paramedic colleagues across HUC for their dedication, compassion and the difference they make every day.