“Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly welcoming, and it still feels surreal to call this my job.”
We recently welcomed Sarah to the team as one of our new paramedics.
Sarah is originally from Leeds but spent a large portion of her career in London, where she trained to be a paramedic, before moving back up North, and currently resides in Teesside.
She will be working across both of our bases, in Langwathby, Penrith and Eaglescliffe, Stockton, but primarily from our North East base.
We caught up with Sarah to discuss her career and how she’s finding working at GNAAS so far…
Could you talk through the jobs you had before joining GNAAS?
I have had a diverse career as a paramedic, ranging from working as an advanced paramedic in a GP surgery, where I completed my prescribing qualification, to working with a Ski Patrol in Norway, which was a unique opportunity.
I worked in London for over 10 years, initially as a cardiac physiologist at The Heart Hospital. I trained as a paramedic during my time in London and early on in my paramedic career, I had the chance to complete shifts with Essex and Herts Air Ambulance, giving me my first exposure to Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS).
After qualifying, I worked for Yorkshire Ambulance Service, served as a resuscitation officer at York Hospital, and worked as a mines rescue paramedic for a large mining company in North Yorkshire. I also worked for a local ambulance service before applying for the role of critical care paramedic at GNAAS.
Why did you want to become a paramedic?
I was drawn to the role of a paramedic because of the autonomy it offers, allowing me to make critical decisions regarding patient care. I find great fulfillment in having a job with purpose, where I can make a real difference in people’s lives and support them in their time of need.
How does it feel to be working at GNAAS?
Working at GNAAS is truly a dream job for me. I have the privilege of responding to people on what may be the worst day of their lives, and I’m able to provide them and their families with the best possible care. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I can make a positive impact during such critical moments.
How have you found it so far?
It’s been a lot to take on, but I’m enjoying the challenge. I’m currently completing clinical shifts under supervision alongside a paramedic and a doctor until I’m hopefully signed off. I am also being trained to monitor the air desk so I can cover it when the dispatchers are off.
I recently completed the HEMS crew course run by London Air Ambulance, which provided a solid foundation to build on.
Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly welcoming, and it still feels surreal to call this my job.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy paddleboarding when the weather is nice. I also go to the gym, though I focus on weightlifting rather than cardio, so it may be difficult to get me training for the Great North Run! At home, I have cats, and I have signed up to volunteer at Teesmouth Seal Rescue and Coastal Conservation Centre.
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