To mark International Paramedics’ Day, a day that aims to raise awareness of the incredible differences paramedics make, we caught up with three paramedics from the three different divisions within Practice Plus Group. We have a number of opportunities available today for rewarding careers, unique experiences and work/ life balance.
Thank you to Danny, Michael and David for sharing your experiences and to all the paramedics who work tirelessly to provide urgent and critical care to those in need.
Danny Wroe, Clinical Lead, Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC)
After 16 years as a frontline paramedic, Danny Wroe is currently a clinical lead at Practice Plus Group Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC), Southampton. His journey at Practice Plus Group speaks of dedication, growth, and excellence in the urgent care setting. Starting as a junior paramedic practitioner in 2016, his exceptional leadership and clinical skills allowed him to climb the ladder to his current role, in which he manages 30 members of staff.
Danny said: “Celebrating Paramedics’ Day holds significant importance as it acknowledges the crucial role paramedics play in healthcare.”
“At Practice Plus Group, they make sure that each employee’s growth is recognised and supported. They provide a good and supportive work environment which promotes individual development for paramedics, nurses and even non-clinical employees alike. I have not worked for any other company or organisation that has been as supportive as this.
“The UTC environment here provides unique exposure to a wide range of cases, making it ideal for anyone aspiring to develop their urgent care skillset further. We have good pathways for development and the team here has always made sure that we stand out in this area.”
Michael, HMP Stafford
Michael is a prison paramedic at HMP Stafford. On completion of his undergraduate degree in Paramedic Science in 2019, he worked on the frontline before his love of new challenges led him to a role in Health in Justice with Practice Plus Group. Since then, he has completed various courses to upskill our team, and provided the right and best treatments for our patients.
Michael says: “Unlike other professions like nursing or midwifery, the role of a paramedic is a fairly new concept. The role became popular in the last 50 to 60 years, meaning that sometimes people may not understand what paramedics can deliver. We are not just “ambulance drivers” but can work in a variety of settings. International Paramedics Day is important as it is starting to recognise the importance of paramedics in all aspects of healthcare.”
“After years working on the frontline on the ambulances, I decided to work somewhere different and unique. That’s when I grabbed the opportunity to work as a paramedic in a prison setting.“
“Practice Plus Group and my team at Stafford have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. It is a unique workplace where you can learn loads from other professionals you work closely with. If you are looking for a bit of a different experience, then working in a prison may be what you are looking for.”
David Kelly, NHS 111 Dorking
David Kelly is a Clinical Supervisor at NHS 111 Dorking call centre. After being on frontline healthcare for around 20 years, he joined Practice Plus Group in 2019. As someone seeking a difference in his career along with a better work life balance, he eventually found his home here.
“Being a paramedic for Practice Plus Group’s NHS 111 team is rewarding in terms of better work life balance. The rota is less brutal as you get to choose your shifts. There is a lot of room to bring flexibility to your work. There is no burnout or physical exhaustion like there can be working on the frontline, and we have a very diverse team with endless opportunities to learn.
For paramedics looking for a better work life balance, this role is ideal for them. There are great development opportunities and a degree of flexibility that allows you to shape your career as you desire.”
Whether in Secondary Care, Health in Justice or Integrated Urgent Care, paramedics at Practice Plus Group can expect career development, a good work-life balance and the support of diverse multi-disciplinary teams.
If you are a paramedic looking for similar opportunities and career growth, join our team today and unlock your best work life.