SWASFT Bulletin Articles

Focusing on the theme of building trust and navigating change, we thought it would be helpful to share more with you about how we use the information you provide via the staff survey and other feedback to develop us as an organisation.

There are lots of different ways you can make your voice heard and you can find out more about them here.    Alongside our town halls, team activities there is our staff survey.

Our annual staff survey is coming up soon.  This is important because it gives you a safe and structured way to share your views, experiences, and suggestions.  The survey is anonymous as this goes to a third part and we are only provided with a summary of the raw data that is not possible to link back to individuals.  We don't see any demographic or personal data, and where the response rate is less than 10 people in a team the information is redacted further.

In the last survey, from September 2025, provided us with valuable data and allowed us to develop a clear work plan which focused on addressing the following issues.  This, combined with our new strategy, has confirmed our focus on the following areas:

• Fixing the basics that cause the daily frustration
• Rebuild the confidence through listening and follow-through
• Create the conditions for people and the organisation to thrive

In our most recent strategy you will have seen that we have committed to ensuring that our people have the tools, training and support to deliver the best possible care.

The survey will be live from 28 September and you will receive this via email from our third party provider.   The survey closes on the 28 November and you will get reminders, but these are all handled via the provider and therefore we don't get the individual feedback on completion.

We want to hear from you, so please do look out for the survey.  If you haven't shared your views via the staff survey previously, then please do consider this year why you don't wish to have your voice heard.   We are happy to talk to you if you want to find out more about the survey and what it means to us at SWASFT, and you can contact us via odteam@swast.nhs.uk.

You can also share your views at our leadership events, direct to line managers or leadership, or if your concerns are particularly sensitive you can contact our Freedom to Speak up Guardians or the People Partner team.

You can find out more on our intranet page here.  If you have any concerns you wish to share about inclusion at SWASFT you can contact your People Partner via HRbusinesspartners@swast.nhs.uk or FTSU colleagues here.

Our new Hospital Handovers Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been developed to provide greater clarity, consistency and support in how we manage operational pressures and ensure our resources are available to respond to patients who need us most.

As Senior Leaders, we want to be clear about one important message: you have our full support in implementing and enacting the actions set out within this SOP.

We recognise that introducing new ways of working can sometimes feel challenging, particularly when operational demand remains high and our teams continue to work under significant pressure. However, this SOP has been introduced for a number of important reasons. It is designed to help us make the best possible use of our available resources, reduce avoidable delays, improve patient safety and ensure that more ambulances and clinicians are available to respond to patients in our communities when they need us.

This is further supported by NHS England's most recent direction to all Acute Trusts to implement a 45 minute backstop for all ambulance handovers from the 1^st September 2026 and 30 minutes from the 1^st January 2027.

This is not simply a procedural change. It is a patient safety initiative and a commitment to supporting our operational workforce. Every minute that our crews and resources are unnecessarily delayed is a minute that another patient may be waiting for help. By consistently applying the actions within this SOP, we can improve our ability to provide timely care, while also reducing pressures on our people. We recognise all patients accessing 999 deserve our help, whether that be sign post to an alternative service or provide clinical advice over the phone or face to face.

We want our frontline crews, EOC teams and leaders to know that they will not be expected to implement this SOP alone. Leaders across the Trust have a responsibility to actively support colleagues, remove barriers to implementation, provide clear guidance when challenges arise and ensure that staff feel confident in applying the process appropriately.

We also recognise that circumstances on the ground can be complex. Where issues are encountered, we encourage colleagues to remain professional and polite but to raise issues promptly through operational leadership channels so that support can be provided and solutions identified. Our expectation is that leaders at every level will work alongside their teams to enable successful implementation and help resolve obstacles when they occur.

Ultimately, our shared goal is simple: to have the right resources available, in the right place, at the right time, so that we can provide the safest and most effective care possible for the patients and communities we serve.

Thank you for your continued professionalism, compassion and commitment. Every day you make a difference to patients across the South West, and we remain committed to supporting you in delivering that care.

About the workshops

These engagement sessions form part of the ongoing development of the Integrated Remote Clinical Assessment (IRCA) Model, which aims to bring together services including navigation, clinical validation, remote assessment and support functions into a more integrated approach.

The workshops will provide an opportunity for colleagues to:

• Share their experiences of current remote clinical services.
• Identify opportunities to improve patient and staff experience.
• Explore how teams can work more effectively together.
• Help shape the future vision, principles and priorities for IRCA.
• Contribute to the development of a model that supports patients, staff and the wider healthcare system.

Who should attend?

We welcome expressions of interest from colleagues working across:

• Operational Ambulance Crews - all clinical grades
• Triage clinicians
• Mental Health clinicians
• Advanced Practitioners
• Specialist Paramedics
• Community First Responders
• Any colleagues with an interest in remote clinical assessment and future service development

Interested? Please send an expression of interest to rachel.tippins@swast.nhs.ukby 18 September.  

Attendance should be when you are on an off duty day, discussed and agreed with your line manager in advance. Any travel expenses or additional payments will be subject to Trust policy and local approval processes.  

These workshops represent a genuine opportunity to influence the future of remote clinical assessment within SWASFT and help shape a service that works for our people, our patients and the communities we serve.  

Your experience, insight and ideas will play a key role in designing the future IRCA model.

What to Expect

The day is designed to provide practical learning opportunities, networking, and inspiration for anyone interested in quality improvement.

Morning: QI-A-Thon Learning Sessions

Take part in interactive ambulance-focused learning sessions where you can:

• Learn from improvement work taking place across UK ambulance services
• Hear real service case studies and improvement success stories
• Explore practical quality improvement tools and techniques
• Discover innovative approaches that are making a difference for patients and staff
• Access useful resources, guides and templates to support your own improvement projects

Afternoon: Virtual AmbulanceQ Expo

The afternoon expo offers an opportunity to:

• Meet partner organisations and improvement experts
• Explore new tools, resources and innovations
• Join improvement discussions with colleagues from across the country
• Share ideas, experiences and lessons learned
• Build connections with staff passionate about improving services nationwide

Whether you are new to quality improvement or already leading improvement work, there will be something for everyone. Clinical, operational, corporate and support staff are all encouraged to attend.

Preventing HCAIs

Remember that everyone is susceptible to HCAIs including patients, clinicians, and our families at home. Help to prevent HCAIs by following guidance on:

Hand hygiene

Wash your hands as often as possible using soap and water at a hand wash basin. Use hand rub if you don't have access to soap and water, but remember that it is less effective. Always disinfect your hands at each of the 5 moments of hand hygiene.

Respiratory and cough hygiene

Always cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Ideally use a tissue, then dispose of it and disinfect your hands. If you are unable to control your coughing, sneezing, or runny nose then you should consider staying off work.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Always wear PPE when it is indicated. Remember that even a minor sounding respiratory chief complaint could turn out to be something more sinister, and could be more significant to another patient if you pass it on to them. It is always better to don PPE, and then remove it later if you rule out an infectious cause, and it is never too late to don or upgrade your PPE if you discover unexpected symptoms on scene.

Cannulation

Sepsis can develop from both skin and blood borne infections, both of which are commonly linked to cannula sites.

Only cannulate a patient if you deem it necessary to support your management of the patient. This may be because you need to administer medications, or because you anticipate a deterioration that may require medications before handover at hospital.

If you do cannulate, ensure that you clean the site using alcohol-based cleaning wipes. Clean for 30 seconds, and allow it to dry for 30 seconds wherever possible, and then do not touch the site again. If you do touch the site, clean it again.

If you really need to place a cannula so rapidly that you cannot follow the above cleaning process, ensure that you tell the hospital at handover so that they can replace the cannula as soon as possible.

Recognition and management

Sepsis presents in a variety of ways, and clinicians should always refer to the Trust's Clinical Guideline for Sepsis to ensure that recognition and management is in line with local agreed clinical pathways.

• Suspect sepsis in a patient with a known or suspected infection who looks or feels unwell or has a NEWS2 score of 5 or more. Patients who meet this description with a NEWS2 score of 7 or more, or a high-risk sign or symptom, should be deemed time critical.
• Patients suspected to be at high risk for Sepsis should be managed with appropriate Oxygen and Fluid per the Sepsis clinical guideline, with consideration of escalation to critical care where appropriate, and rapid transfer to hospital including a pre-alert.

Other minor national updates

Medicine updates

SWASFT updates

There are some people whose presence leaves a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know them. Simon Moss was one of those people.

Simon was, first and foremost, a devoted family man. His love for his wife Alison and his family, Callum, Luke, Francesca, Ashton and Alex was evident in everything he did, and his strong family values guided the way he lived his life. He spoke with pride about his loved ones and found immense joy in supporting his sons, travelling far and wide to watch them play football and sharing in their achievements and successes. Of all the things Simon spoke about, nothing seemed to light him up more than talking about his daughter, Francesca. There was always a twinkle in his eyes whenever her name was mentioned - a quiet but unmistakable reflection of the immense love and pride he felt for her. Simon spoke of Francesca as a blessing, with warmth, gratitude and unwavering devotion. His love for her was evident in every conversation, and it was clear that caring for Francesca was not simply a responsibility, but one of the greatest privileges and joys of his life.

Professionally, Simon was an outstanding paramedic whose compassion, integrity, and dedication touched countless lives. He possessed a rare ability to make people feel listened to, valued, and supported, whether they were patients, colleagues, or friends. Caring, trustworthy, and dependable, Simon embodied the very best qualities of our profession and set an example that others aspired to follow.

Beyond his clinical role, Simon was a committed Union representative and a respected advocate for his colleagues. He believed strongly in fairness, understanding, and constructive negotiation. While he never wavered from his values and beliefs, he always approached matters with respect and dignity, seeking solutions that brought people together. His integrity earned him the trust and admiration of many.

Simon also had a passion for sport. He was a loyal supporter of Torquay United and spent countless hours travelling the country following the team he loved. Whether standing on the touchline supporting his sons or cheering on Torquay United, his enthusiasm, loyalty, and sense of community shone through.

Although Simon passed away 28^th March 2023 his memory remains alive in the hearts of those who knew him. He is deeply missed, but he is also remembered with tremendous affection, gratitude, and respect. His name continues to be spoken with warmth and admiration, reflecting the profound impact he had on so many of our lives.

Simon's legacy is not only in what he achieved, but in the way he treated people-with kindness, honesty, compassion, and unwavering loyalty. He was a remarkable man, and it is a privilege to remember and celebrate his life.

Courtesy of the Neonatal Network, we are pleased to offer a limited number of funded places on the Out of Hospital Newborn Life Support (OHNLS) course, accredited by the UK Resuscitation Council.

This one-day, face-to-face course focuses on providing newborn life support in out-of-hospital settings and covers: 

·       Recognising babies who need support at birth

·       Thermal care in low-resource environments

·       Airway management and ventilation using pre-hospital equipment

·       Team communication and coordination

·       Safe neonatal transport decisions

Funding:

The Neonatal Network will fully fund the course fee. There is potential for them to also fund further costs, but this has not yet been confirmed and cannot be guaranteed. Please assume that cost of travel and expenses is not covered.

Eligibility:

Open to all registered clinicians. Unfortunately, this opportunity is not available to undergraduate staff.

Dates and Locations:

Sessions run from 08:00 to 18:00.

Swindon dates (Great Western Hospital)

Open to staff from BNSSG, Gloucestershire & Wiltshire

• Thursday 1 October 2026 OR
• Friday 2 October 2026

Exeter dates (Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital)

Open to staff from Somerset, Devon & Dorset

•  Wednesday 18 November 2026 OR
• Thursday 19 November 2026

More information & how to register your interest:

 Places will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Please note that submitting an expression of interest does not guarantee a place. Once capacity has been reached for all dates, the registration form will be disabled.

Demand is expected to be high so please register quickly if you can commit to your preferred date.

Click here to express your interest: Out of Hospital Newborn Life Support - Expression of Interest - Fill in form

We will contact everyone who has registered their interest as soon as possible.   

If you have any questions, please contact the CPD Team on CPD.Admin@swast.nhs.uk.

As part of our commitment to looking after you and our work towards reducing carbon emissions, we're giving you the opportunity to rent a bicycle (or e-bike) and safety equipment through our Cycle Scheme provider, BHN extras.

Payments are taken from your salary before tax and national insurance are deducted, meaning the cost to you is effectively free of both tax and national insurance.

At the end of the rental period, there is an option to transfer ownership of the bike to yourself for a small percentage of the purchase price (more details are available through the BHN Extras website).

The scheme will be open from Monday 10 August until Sunday 4 October. Deductions will start from your October 2026 salary and continue until September 2027.

Please note:

• The maximum value you can apply for per applicant is £4,000
• The Cycle Scheme is only available to permanent and Fixed Term employees who have not applied for a bicycle in the last 12 months and whose hourly rate is above £12.71 per hour after your yearly deductions for the Cycle Scheme equipment and any other salary sacrifice. The £12.71 hourly rate does not include unsocial payments or overtime
• The Cycle Scheme is not open to Bank employees
• If you leave the Trust whilst still in the Cycle Scheme any amounts owed will be deducted from your final salary
• Entering a salary sacrifice arrangement will reduce your pensionable salary and may therefore reduce your final pension

Apply at www.cyclescheme.co.uk/781A3 where you can also find FAQs, read more about how the Cycle Scheme works and calculate your potential savings.

Unfortunately, we are currently experiencing an issue with the SWAST CPD website. As a result, the site is currently unavailable to both staff and administrators.

The web provider is working closely with our IT team to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. In the meantime, we are assessing the potential impact, including any implications for registrations and bookings for upcoming CPD & Education Days. We are also aware that it may have impacted deadlines for some expressions of interest.

If you have already registered for an event, we would be grateful if you could still attend as planned. If you are no longer able to attend, please let us know as soon as possible.

You can locate your event confirmation email(s) by searching your Outlook inbox or PMM folder for emails from noreply@swastcpd.co.uk or noreply@inspya.net.

While this issue is being investigated, we encourage all staff to remain vigilant and follow normal cyber security good practice. Please be cautious of any unexpected emails, phone calls, text messages, links or requests for personal information claiming to be related to the SWAST CPD website.

If you receive anything that appears unusual or raises concern, please report it to the Cyber Security Team via cybersecurity@swast.nhs.uk.

At this stage, there is no requirement for staff to take any action regarding existing bookings unless contacted through established Trust channels.

For further cyber security advice and guidance, please visit the Cyber Security intranet page.

We really appreciate your patience and understanding while we work to resolve this issue. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and will provide further updates as soon as possible.

Stream 4 has launched, offering colleagues a more personalised way to build financial confidence and support their wellbeing.

Combining intelligent coaching, structured learning and improved insights, Stream 4 can help with everyday money matters such as understanding pay, building savings habits, managing debt and planning for the future.

Meet the New and Improved Coach

Stream's upgraded Coach makes personalised financial guidance easier to access, helping colleagues build confidence and take practical steps towards their goals.

Coach provides tailored education, prompts and recommendations based on individual goals and how colleagues use the platform, so support feels relevant to their financial journey.

Key features include:

·       Personalised prompts linked to goals and platform activity

·       Relevant guidance connected to Stream's tools and resources

·       Practical support to help turn good intentions into healthier financial habits

Introducing Learn

Learn is Stream 4's new knowledge and course hub, helping colleagues build financial skills and confidence through practical, structured learning.

It offers courses, articles and guidance on key topics such as budgeting, debt management, saving and future planning.

With Learn, colleagues can access:

·       Structured courses linked to real-life financial goals

·       Helpful articles and explainers on common money topics

·       Practical content that supports action through Stream's tools

How Coach, Learn and Portal Work Together

Stream 4 connects three key features:

·       Coach - personalised guidance

·       Learn - practical financial education

·       Portal - clearer employer insights

Together, they provide more personalised, practical and measurable financial wellbeing support.

Get Started Today

Explore Stream 4 to see how Coach and Learn can help you build financial confidence, develop healthier money habits and support long-term wellbeing.

Look out for the launch posters for more information about the new features.

To join Stream:

Have your 8-digit primary assignment/staff number ready, then:

·       Download the Stream app and enter an email address you can access on your device.

·       Verify your email when prompted.

·       Return to the app, select South Western Ambulance Service and enter your surname, assignment number and date of birth.

·       Accept the terms and conditions and allow 2-3 days for enrolment to complete.

Heads up:  during enrolment, ESR updates your bank configuration automatically.  This is a normal, secure part of the process - your actual bank account and salary stay exactly the same.

How you can get involved

There are several ways to participate:

• Attend network meetings and events.
• Volunteer as a Chair, Vice Chair, or Committee Member.
• Support specific projects or initiatives.

Our Chairs have a number of duties including facilitating positive discussion, engagement, and collaboration. If you are interested in the Chair role the role description is available. Those successful will receive a short induction, and we are currently developing a dedicated training programme for network Chairs.

Find out more

If you would like to attend one of our networks or groups, or wish to express your interest in being on the committee or chair of our Veterans and Disability Networks please contact the relevant network directly or email the Organisational Development Team at odteam@swast.nhs.uk.

In the UK, around  3 in 4 people who die by suicide are men, highlighting the need to support men's wellbeing and encourage open conversations. Many men feel pressure to cope alone and are less likely to seek help, but creating a culture where it's okay to talk can break down these barriers - and ensure people feel able to reach out when they need it.

While health is often seen as physical, men's wellbeing is broader and can be harder to discuss. Men are less likely to seek help for physical and mental health issues and often wait until problems become serious. Initiatives like Men's Health Week help challenge stigma and promote the message that looking after your health is a strength.

Men face a number of unique challenges when it comes to wellbeing:

• Reluctance to seek medical advice or support
• Higher rates of certain conditions such as heart disease
• Increased risk of stress, burnout, and mental health struggles
• Lower likelihood to talk openly about emotions

In high-pressure roles, like working in a 24/7 service, these challenges can be even more pronounced.

It's not just physical health

Wellbeing is about the whole person:

• Mental health - managing stress, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing
• Physical health - staying active, eating well, regular check-ups
• Social wellbeing - staying connected and supported
• Work-life balance - especially important for shift workers 

Taking small steps in any of these areas can make a big difference.  

Small steps, big impact

You don't need to make huge changes overnight. Try:

• Going for a short walk or getting moving during breaks
• Talking to someone you trust about how you're feeling
• Booking that check-up you've been putting off
• Making time for rest and recovery
• Checking in on a colleague or friend

Supporting each other is just as important as looking after ourselves.

Supporting each other at work

Creating a culture where men feel comfortable speaking up benefits everyone. You can help by:

• Starting open, judgement-free conversations
• Encouraging colleagues to access support services
• Sharing wellbeing resources
• Simply asking: Are you alright?
  

Want  to learn more (and win a prize)?

We've created a short quiz to help raise awareness, challenge common myths, and share useful tips around men's health.  

Complete the quiz here: Men's Health Quiz - Fill in form

Everyone who takes part will be entered into a prize draw.The quiz will close on 16 July.

Men's health is everyone's business. Whether you're looking after your own wellbeing or supporting someone else, every conversation and every small action counts.  

Let's keep the conversation going.

Lee Thirlby, Education Lead  

About the conference

This year we have a packed schedule with five workshops all certified by CPDme - meaning you can gain CPD credits while networking with other people from around the ambulance sector and wider NHS as well as other services.

On the day you will be able to pick two of the five interactive workshops (listed below), each lasting 1 hour:

Workshop 1: "Supporting Trans & Non-Binary People"

Workshop 2: "Beyond the Rainbow: What Inclusion Needs Next"

Workshop 3: "Providing Good Care to Patients Living With HIV"

Workshop 4: "Being a Good Ally"

Workshop 5: "How to Create a Successful Network"

Keynote speaker - Dr. Gab Astorga (he/him)

An award-winning science communicator and PhD-trained microbial genomicist based at the Quadram Institute and University of East Anglia.

Dr Gab's research uses whole genome sequencing to study bacterial populations, evolution and diversity across humans, animals and the environment. Alongside his academic work, he has built a community of over 500,000 followers across social media, where he creates engaging, accessible content that brings STEM to life. 

He is a passionate advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM. He is an ambassador for the Terrence Higgins Trust and uses his platform to connect science with real-world impact across health, environment and community.  

Dr. Gab is also an active member of the LGBTQ+ working group and EDI committee at the Quadram Institute, embedding inclusive practices within research environments as well as public engagement. In 2024, he delivered a talk at the Royal Institution for International LGBTQ+ People in STEM Day, and has spoken at institutions including the Linnean Society, as well as internationally.  

He is a recipient of the Future Presenter Award at the Amplify x New Voice Awards and TikTok Content Creator of the Year (Books and Learning). He has collaborated with organisations such as Pride in STEM and the Royal Institution, giving a talk on the international day of LGBTQ+ scientists about how we use genomics to track outbreaks.  

If you have any queries about the conference, please email lgbt@swast.nhs.uk .

PRONTO - finger-prick lateral flow test to aid diagnosis of LVO strokes

CRASH4 - effectiveness and safety of IM TXA in adults over 50 with symptomatic mild head injury

and provide reliable evidence on the effect it has on intracranial haemorrhage, disability, death and dementia.

Patients are randomised to receive either TXA or matching placebo (double-blinded so clinicians will not know what is being administered) as soon as possible after injury but no later than 3 hours, into the deltoid, thigh or buttocks depending on muscle mass.

The study is currently open to paramedics and nurses at EDOC, Tiverton, Bridgwater, Ilminster, Taunton, Saltash, Derriford, Honiton, Liskeard, Newton Abbot, Torquay and Totnes. Clinicians must undergo online training to be able to access the trial drug and must ensure accurate logging at the beginning and end of every shift. Vouchers and CPD certs are provided for involvement.

The study, working with London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has been granted an extension, so we're now recruiting until November 2026! It's not too late to sign up if you wish to get involved contact  CRASH4@SWAST.nhs.uk  to register your interest.

Cast-away! Angling and nature intervention research for those suffering from PTSD or struggling following emotional trauma

Over the next year, the University of Essex, supported by iCARP CIC, will be running a project looking at how social fishing in a tranquil, rural environment can help those suffering with PTSD.

We are looking for self-identified individuals who may be struggling following emotional trauma. Participants will be given £50 to help with travel costs and will be collected and delivered back to local train stations. There will be an onsite mental health first aider as needed and this research could provide a great opportunity to get out in nature. There will also be follow-up questionnaires following the angling. 

Do reach out to the study team via research@swast.nhs.uk if this is something that interests you!

The Enhanced Clinical Practitioner (ECP) programme aligns with the national Level 7 ECP Apprenticeship Standard, providing a consistent benchmark for advanced practice across health and care settings. It supports registered clinicians to broaden their clinical expertise, strengthen decision making, and work with greater autonomy. The programme focuses on:

• Advanced clinical assessment - enabling practitioners to complete comprehensive examinations, develop differential diagnoses, and manage complex cases.
• Evidence based practice - building skills in critical appraisal and applying research to improve patient care.
• System wide working - preparing practitioners to operate across organisational boundaries and contribute to integrated urgent and emergency care pathways.
• Leadership and professional judgement - developing capacity for service improvement, quality governance, and patient safety.
  
  

The national pathway also offers routes into specialist areas such as mental health, urgent care, community care, and critical care, supporting workforce development and modernised models of care. SWASFT's early adoption of the ECP apprenticeship reinforces our commitment to professional development, clinical excellence, and sustainable workforce transformation - enhancing opportunities for clinicians and improving outcomes for the communities we serve.

Cast-away! Angling and nature intervention research for those suffering from PTSD or struggling following emotional trauma

Diagnosing LVO strokes could be assisted by a simple finger prick!

CRASH-4 study of TXA in mild TBI - expanding to Exmouth and Sidmouth

CRASH4 is a study that aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of IM TXA in adults over 50 with symptomatic mild head injury and provide reliable evidence on the effect it has on intracranial haemorrhage, disability, death and dementia.

Patients are randomised to receive either TXA or matching placebo (double-blinded so clinicians will not know what is being administered) as soon as possible after injury but no later than 3 hours, into the deltoid, thigh or buttocks depending on muscle mass.

The study is currently open to paramedics and nurses at EDOC, Tiverton, Bridgwater, Ilminster, Taunton, Saltash, Derriford, Honiton, Liskeard, Newton Abbot, Torquay, Totnes. Clinicians must undergo online training to be able to access the trial drug and must ensure accurate logging at the beginning and end of every shift. Vouchers and CPD certs are provided for involvement.

The study, working with London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has been granted an extension, so we're now recruiting until November 2026! It's not too late to sign up if you wish to get involved, contact  CRASH4@SWAST.nhs.uk  to register your interest.

As part of Sustainability Week, today we're pleased to share a special video which highlights SWASFT's sustainability journey so far - and where we're going. 

We also want to highlight some fantastic achievements made under our Green Plan, which outlines our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and our ambition to become a net zero organisation by 2040. 

Over the last year significant progress has been made in the sustainability space under the Green Plan, including:  

• 26 additional electric vehicle charging points installed to assist with the Trust fleet transitioning to zero emission (electric) vehicles - planned total is 34
• 4 sites with solar panels installed 
  • Trust HQ solar system is delivering savings: first 8 months = 25% reduction on electricity from grid, 35 tonnes of carbon saved, 21% reduction in cost 
• 4 heat pumps installed at Stroud, Falfield, NBOC, and Taunton stations replacing gas and oil-fired central heating
  • Saving 67 tonnes of CO2e annually, reducing gas carbon footprint by 13%
• 1 non-compliant diesel fuel tank decommissioned 
• A fleet environment working group established, working on the fleet decarbonisation plan as well as other sustainability related works
• The first 2 electric double-crewed ambulances (DCAs) have arrived and are being prepared for use and 12 electric rapid response vehicles (RRVs) are on order
• Fleet plans have progressed to allow the purchase of only hybrid or electric lease cars or RRVs in the future (no diesel or petrol)
• 3 carbon literacy training sessions undertaken and 30 leaders trained to support further delivery of the Green Plan and embed sustainability and carbon reduction into decision making and planning. 

Get involved  

Level 4 apprenticeship in Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability

Elaine Green, Dispatcher, is the first colleague to undertake the Sustainable Healthcare Academy's Level 4 Apprenticeship in Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability. The apprenticeship, designed specifically for NHS staff, empowers the learner to support their organisation's Green Plan and achieve net zero.  
A new cohort is starting soon - insight sessions will be held throughout March where you can find out more. See The LDN Sustainable Healthcare Academy - LDN Apprenticeships | Ofsted Outstanding Apprenticeships.  

EcoEarn - get rewarded for your sustainable actions  

Have you signed up to EcoEarn yet? Earn 'Green Points' to win one of five £20 vouchers, from a choice of local and national sustainable businesses. There's also the chance to win one of six £10 vouchers in a raffle each month. 
 
Help us build a more sustainable Trust and reduce your environmental impact - sign up now at ecoearn.co.uk or download the app on iOS and Android. Just search 'EcoEarn' on your phone's app store. 

Green Forum 

The first Green Forum was held on 20 February, where Elaine shared more about her experience of the Level 4 Apprenticeship so far and SHA's Lisa Instone talked through the apprenticeship in more detail. You can watch a recording of the session below. 
 

Look out for another Green Forum session coming soon - in the meantime, be sure to join the Green Forum Teams channel. 

Finger prick lateral flow tests to aid diagnosis of LVO strokes: the PRONTO study
is an easy to use intervention with real potential benefits to patients. Training is quick, online, and there is no lengthy data entry when you treat/recruit a patient. You will receive a voucher, CPD certificate and will be vital to delivering this interesting research. 

Live in Tiverton, Honiton, Exeter, Crediton, Sidmouth, Exmouth, Dawlish, Okehampton, Newton Abbot, Totnes, Torquay, Brixham, Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, Derriford, Torpoint, Saltash, Liskeard, Launceston and Tavistock  - i f you work at any of these stations and want to get involved please email  PRONTO@swast.nhs.uk  to discuss and receive your training links.  

TXA in mild TBI - the CRASH-4 study 
aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of IM TXA in adults over 50 with symptomatic mild head injury and provide reliable evidence on the effect it has on intracranial haemorrhage, disability, death and dementia. Patients are randomised to receive either TXA or matching placebo (double-blinded so clinicians will not know what is being administered) as soon as possible after injury but no later than 3 hours, into the deltoid, thigh or buttocks depending on muscle mass. 

Currently open to paramedics and nurses at EDOC, Tiverton, Bridgwater, Ilminster, Taunton, Saltash, Derriford, Honiton, Liskeard, Newton Abbot, Torquay and Totnes. 

Clinicians must undergo online training to be able to access the trial drug and must ensure accurate logging at the beginning and end of every shift. Vouchers and CPD certificates are provided for involvement. The study, working with London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has been granted an extension, so we're now recruiting until November 2026!

It's not too late to sign up via  CRASH4@swast.nhs.uk .

CFR impact at a glance (Apr 2025 to Jan 2026) 

Compared with the same period last year (Apr 2024 to Jan 2025), CFR activity has increased significantly: 

• All incidents attended by CFRs (all categories): 31,200 
  Up from 23,552 last year (+32%)
• Category 1 incidents attended by CFRs (CFR only): 7,805
  Up from 5,875 last year (+33%)
• Category 2 incidents attended by CFRs (CFR only): 17,409
  Up from 12,660 last year (+38%)
• Category 3 incidents attended by CFRs (CFR only): 5,848 
  • Up from 4,913 last year (+19%) 

And across all volunteer/community response (not just CFR), there were 9,770 Category 1 incidents responded to in the same Apr-Jan period, up from 9,321 last year (+5%). 

The difference CFRs make on scene 

Beyond the numbers, the real impact is what CFRs do before core resources arrive: 

• On average, volunteer/community responders are on scene around 5m 13s at Category 1 incidents waiting for a core resource (improved from 6m 41s last year).
• Volunteers are first on scene in around 7% of all Category 1 incidents (7.08% year-to-date vs 7.32% last year overall). 

Where CFR activity is highest (Apr 2025 to Jan 2026) 

CFR incident attendance (all categories) is especially strong in: 

• Cornwall/IOS: 5,858
• Wiltshire: 5,091
• Gloucestershire: 4,465
• North & East Devon: 4,146
• South & West Devon: 4,017

This reflects not only call volume and geography, but the sustained commitment of volunteers and the county teams supporting them. 

Supporting the biggest vehicle replacement programme in our history 

Alongside frontline responses, our volunteers have played a huge part in supporting the largest vehicle replacement programme ever rolled out across the Trust. 

To date, volunteers have moved over 500 vehicles as part of the fleet upgrade programme - helping relocate ambulances across the organisation to keep the rollout on track. This has saved the Trust thousands of pounds and helped improve productivity by supporting a faster transition to a modern fleet. 

Community Training Volunteers 

Our Community Training Volunteers will be delivering CPR and AED training across  our communities - increasing public awareness and confidence in basic life support (BLS). 

This work helps reduce the care gap between the time of call and the arrival of first response, through improved bystander action and wider access to training. It also supports tackling health inequalities, by improving access to life-saving skills for people and communities who may face barriers to traditional training opportunities. 

Fleet and Equipment Volunteer Drivers 

Adverts are due to launch this week for our latest new non-patient facing volunteer recruitment. We are trialling Fleet and Equipment Volunteer Drivers in Exeter and Chippenham, supporting AVP colleagues with vehicle moves between stations. We are excited to see this new opportunity grow thanks to the support from our Fleet, AVP, and Equipment colleagues.

About the SFA Programme 

Suicide First Aid: Lite - half day course (4 hours) 

A short, focused programme giving you the essential knowledge needed to effectively recognise warning signs, start a conversation and connect someone to the right support. It will help you to safely intervene in situations where someone may be contemplating suicide.  

Suicide First Aid: Understanding Suicide Intervention - full day course (7 hours) 

A comprehensive course providing you with both theory and practical skills for effective intervention in situations where someone may be contemplating suicide. After completing this course, you could choose to self-fund a Level 4 assessment to be a tutor.  

• You'll receive an email and Teams invites once your place is confirmed
• Please ensure you have line manager approval to attend before applying
• Tutors cannot approve overtime, TOIL or abstraction, this must be agreed with your line manager in advance  

To apply for a place on either course, please use the following form to submit your details and indicate which date you would like to attend -   Suicide First Aid Application  - Fill in form  

If you have any queries, please contact colleen.lea@swast.nhs.uk or sophie.morgan@swast.nhs.uk.

A full day of learning and partnership

Throughout the day, attendees rotated through a series of focused, hands-on sessions delivered by expert colleagues and partner organisations. Each session offered practical takeaways, deeper understanding of specialist roles, and valuable insight into how CFRs can continue to enhance patient care in their communities.

DocBike: Motorcycle trauma care

Ben, a final-year apprentice paramedic with SWASFT and Deputy Regional Lead for the Somerset and Avon DocBike team, delivered a practical and engaging session on motorcycle trauma. He guided volunteers through scene safety, early assessment, safe helmet removal and common injury patterns-emphasising how CFRs can provide crucial early support before ambulance crews arrive. 

World Extreme Medicine

Richard Lewis, Chief Operating Officer of World Extreme Medicine and a SWASFT CFR, joined Dr Will Duffin, Joint Medical Director, to share lessons learned from delivering care in remote and high-risk environments. Their session explored leadership, decision-making and calm teamwork under pressure, drawing clear parallels between extreme medicine and the realities our volunteers may face on the ground. 

Introducing critical care across the South West

Craig Wilkins, Specialist Paramedic in Critical Care / Specialist Lead - Enhanced & Critical Care, led an in-depth introduction to Enhanced and Critical Care provision. Volunteers gained an overview of peri-arrest care, advanced airway and respiratory interventions, major trauma management, pre-hospital blood administration and critical procedures such as thoracostomy and surgical airways. The session also emphasised the importance of coordinated early action to improve cardiac arrest outcomes.

Hazardous Area Response Team

Richard Davies, HART Team Leader, provided an overview of the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and its specialist capabilities, including working at height, confined space rescue, flood response, CBRNe, HazMat and urban search and rescue. He highlighted how effective partnership between CFRs and HART supports safer, faster and better coordinated care at complex incidents. 

Partner engagement

Over lunch, volunteers visited the ZOLL Medical stand, with demonstrations of the X Series and the new AED 3 BLS devices. This provided a valuable opportunity to explore equipment used across our Trust and speak directly with partners about current and emerging technology.

Events like this strengthen our collective ability to deliver safe and effective care. They help build stronger links between our volunteers and specialist teams, support consistent and high-quality responses to cardiac arrest and major trauma, and improve understanding of when-and how-to request specialist resources. Shared learning from extreme and remote environments also supports confident decision-making when conditions are challenging.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the day-especially our guest speakers, who made the sessions so informative and engaging.

We also want to thank Dr John Martin for visiting to welcome volunteers and recognise their contribution. Your time was hugely appreciated by our CFRs-thank you for coming along.

Most importantly, thank you to our wonderful CFRs. Your commitment, professionalism and willingness to give your time makes an extraordinary difference to patients and crews every day. It was inspiring to see so many of you come together to learn, share and represent your communities.

Planning is already underway for our next CFR conference, planned for Summer 2026. We have been fortunate to secure sponsorship for the next event, enabling us to deliver another full day of learning and engagement. We will share further details in due course.

If you would like to be involved in planning or supporting the next conference, please get in touch with your local Volunteering and Community Services team.

Aspiring Female Leaders Programme

Following the success of last year's pilot, we're pleased to announce the launch of our Aspiring Female Leaders Programme, running from April to October 2026. This programme forms part of our wider ambition to achieve better gender balance in leadership roles across SWASFT.  

We have carefully considered how to make this year's offer as fair and accessible as possible, while recognising that places are limited. Last year's pilot focused on frontline operational roles. For 2026, we are inviting applications from aspiring female leaders (defined as individuals currently working in Band 5 or 6 roles who are looking to step into a leadership role within the next 12-24 months) from the following departments:  

• DDaT 
• Volunteering 
• Paramedic Practice 
• HART 
• Fleet 
• HEMS 
• Specialist Practice 
• ROC 
• Tiverton UTC 

If you meet the criteria and would like to apply, please speak to your manager to find out more. Alternatively, you can write to us at leadership.coaches@swast.nhs.uk.  
 
The application deadline is Friday 20 February.   

If you don't meet this year's eligibility criteria, please be reassured that we are planning to expand the opportunity to more departments in future years. In addition, our team is working hard to develop a broad range of leadership development opportunities for all aspiring and existing leaders here at SWASFT which we will share as soon as they become available.   

Leadership Sprint - Practical tools to help you approach difficult conversations more confidently 
26 February 11:00-12:30 

Delivered by Katie Joyce, SWASFT Leadership Development Trainer  

As managers and leaders, we're unlikely to ever find difficult conversations easy - but we can learn to approach them with greater skill and confidence. Handled well, these conversations can build trust, improve relationships and lead to better outcomes for everyone. In this session, we'll explore: 

• Understanding your leadership style and how it influences your approach to difficult conversations  
• A useful framework for helping you to think differently about difficult conversations  
• A model to help you prepare for and hold a difficult conversation

There are 45 spaces available. If you would like to attend, please fill out this short form and we will send you a Teams invite. 

We love hearing about examples of good care - it helps us celebrate what's working well and learn from positive practice. 

Currently, when you select 'Good Care' within InPhase, the same question set appears as when reporting an incident, which isn't ideal for capturing excellence. We recognise that this is frustrating.  

Regrettably, colleagues were accidentally using the original, shorter Good Care form to report patient safety incidents and, as a result, we were not capturing enough information for us to examine these incredibly important events. This unfortunately means that while the two forms are still being confused, the question sets must be duplicated. 

Our ability to change any of the questions relating to incidents is further limited by very strict national rules, as all the data is all uploaded to a national database (Learning from Patient Safety Events (LFPSE). 

The good news is that we're planning improvements! In the new financial year, it is hoped that the Good Care form can be separated from the Incidents form to avoid confusion. The form will be redesigned to make it more user-friendly and focused on highlighting and sharing excellence. 

In the meantime, please do keep sharing your Good Care examples as they help us improve and celebrate success.

Good Care

Within the NHS we spend a lot of time learning from errors, which is extremely important.  However, it's easy to forget that there is a lot of excellent work, witnessed every day, often going unnoticed.   

Learning from Excellence is a system which allows all colleagues - both clinical and non-clinical - to report episodes of good practice to share, promote and learn from positive incidents. We know that excellence can be difficult to define, but that we know it when we see it. Ambulance colleagues work extraordinarily hard every day, and there can be a tendency when you notice some good work to think that they are just doing their job or they should do that anyway. But it is this ordinary excellence that needs recognising so we can show gratitude for it, study it and learn from it. 

Let's start sharing and learning from when things go really well! 

What you need to do now 

Please familiarise yourself with the new requirements and ensure QEIA completion is built into Directorate planning and decision-making from January 2026 onwards.