An ambulance crew invited the BBC to join them on a drive along to get a first-hand experience of a day on the front line of the NHS during the escalating winter pressure.
Lee Carr, a paramedic, and Beth Sutton, a trainee ambulance practitioner, responded to various emergency calls throughout the day. Their calls included assisting a man who was having a seizure at Gatwick Airport railway station, attending to a 96-year-old man experiencing breathing difficulties, and providing aid to a 101-year-old woman who had slipped in her kitchen.
Mr. Carr shared his perspective, stating, “When you arrive at work, it’s uncertain what kind of situations you will face throughout the day. Each day presents an opportunity to help someone and make a positive impact on their day.”
As the winter season intensifies, the pressure on the NHS continues to rise. To provide insight into the challenges faced by healthcare professionals, an ambulance crew extended an invitation to the BBC for a ride-along experience.
Accompanied by Lee Carr, a paramedic, and Beth Sutton, a trainee ambulance practitioner, the crew embarked on a series of emergency responses throughout the day. Their diverse range of calls included attending to a man experiencing a seizure at Gatwick Airport railway station, assisting a 96-year-old man with respiratory issues, and aiding a 101-year-old woman who had slipped in her kitchen.
Reflecting on the unpredictable nature of their work, Mr. Carr expressed, “Each day presents a unique opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. We never know what we will encounter when we begin our shifts.”