At West Midlands Ambulance Service, we are lucky to have many ties with the armed forces. We have over 140 staff who have links to the military; some joined us after leaving military service; others are reservists or cadet force instructors who combine working for us with their continued role within the military. We recognise the value and contribution they have, and continue to make, to our country, our region and our local communities.
There are clear advantages to the NHS and the Armed Forces of healthcare professionals and other staff contributing to the armed services. We actively support staff who wish to combine their NHS role with that in the military. As a Trust we acknowledge the need for these staff to undertake training that enables them to develop and maintain skills and abilities. We will not disadvantage those Reservists or Cadet Force Volunteers who notify us of their Reserve status, or those who are made known to the Trust directly by the Ministry of Defence.
Military Cadet Forces are one of the UK’s biggest youth organisations. They inspire young people to aim high, grow their abilities and go further in life. Cadet Instructors act as role models and teach young people a variety of skills as well as personal development for the Instructor. We have had many cadets join us in a range of roles such as student paramedics, patient transport service staff and within our control rooms.