With over 2,600 paramedics, this day is special to us as it will be for ambulance services across the country and the world – that’s why we’re starting our celebrations early.

Each day over the next seven days, we’re bringing you stories and snippets about our paramedics from different perspectives. We’re kickstarting today off with a quote from our Chief Consultant Paramedic Mike Jackson whose job is to ensure we provide the highest quality of patient care through strategic leadership, policy development and strong clinical leadership throughout our organisation.

Mike qualified as a paramedic in June 1986, after which he spent several years working on the only rapid response vehicle for the former Merseyside Ambulance Service. He talks about what makes him proud to be a paramedic: “I am fortunate I get the opportunity to work alongside my colleagues who provide high-quality skilled care to our patients in often challenging circumstances. Their dedication and care are often humbling and I am privileged to lead such a committed and compassionate group of clinicians.

“When I see how far the profession has evolved over the last 35 years since the inception of the paramedic training programme in 1985, I am proud of how far we have developed in a relatively small number of years.  The opportunities which now present to members of the profession are both varied and rewarding. Prior to the paramedic role becoming established, opportunities to move into other areas of health care were limited, if not non-existent. Now, we see paramedics working in primary and acute care often in advanced practice roles as well as other settings in the private sector.”

When talking about what made him move into the profession Mike says: “If I am being totally honest, the role wasn’t something I set my heart on from leaving education. However, after joining the cadet scheme in 1980 I never looked back and have enjoyed every minute of providing care to patients since.”

Tune in to our social media accounts from today to Friday 8 July to find out why our paramedics are proud of their roles.