Finding the right fit: Sophie’s journey from ambulance services to UTC Portsmouth    

Discover Sophie’s journey from ambulance services to UTC Portsmouth, finding clinical challenge, career growth, and a better work-life balance.

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Sophie Everett, a Paramedic Practitioner, joined Practice Plus Group Urgent Treatment Centre, Portsmouth, after stepping away from the ambulance service. With a background in pre-hospital care, she was looking for a role that still challenged her clinically but with better balance and long-term growth. 

Here, in her own words, is what made her choose UTC Portsmouth — 

“After spending most of my career in the ambulance service, I was ready for something new. I loved the clinical side of the job, but I found the working hours and lifestyle increasingly hard to manage. It wasn’t sustainable for me anymore. I knew I wanted to stay in a patient-facing role but with a better work-life balance and the chance to grow. 

I joined UTC Portsmouth about five years ago, and I’ve been really enjoying it. I didn’t have much experience in an urgent treatment centre setting before, but I’ve found the role to be really varied and interesting. You never know what’s going to come through the door. It varies from minor injuries to complex presentations, which keeps the clinical work stimulating. 

It’s a nice mix between using the skills I already had and developing new ones. I’m also learning to manage cases more independently, which has been great for my confidence.” 

A work environment every practitioner deserves 

“What I like most is that the team is really supportive. There’s always someone around to ask questions or get a second opinion from. You don’t feel alone in your decision-making, even when managing cases autonomously. 

There’s a good mix of nurses, paramedics, and advanced practitioners, and everyone works well together. The working environment is calm and respectful, and that makes a big difference. 

The team and management place a real focus on the career progression of the employees here. I have started doing modules to work towards becoming an Advanced Clinical Practitioner, and I have had support from the leadership team from day one. 

There’s a clear structure to development here. You’re not just thrown into a role and left to figure it out. They invest in helping you move forward! 

Speaking about the work life balance, the rota and shift patterns are so much more manageable than what I was used to. Having evenings and weekends back have made a big difference to my life outside of work. It’s been a huge improvement for my wellbeing.” 

Why I recommend it 

“If you’re a nurse or paramedic looking for a role where you can grow clinically, work with a great team, and actually enjoy some balance, I would definitely recommend UTC Portsmouth. The environment, the support, and the opportunities to develop are all here. 

We’re hiring now, and honestly, it’s been the best move I’ve made in my career so far.” 

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