At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach CPR and defibrillator skills to empower communities in emergencies.
- Company: Join the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in community health.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, make a difference, and enhance your CV.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering role with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Be a lifesaver and help improve community resilience while learning essential skills.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills and a positive attitude; training provided.
The Community Training Volunteer plays a key role in South Western Ambulance's aim to improve community resilience by increasing knowledge of CPR and how to use a public access defibrillator in case of an emergency. In the UK, only 1 in every 10 people experiencing an out of hospital cardiac arrest survive to discharge from hospital. Our aim at the South Western Ambulance Service is to give more people and communities the skills and confidence to perform those lifesaving interventions in the first critical minutes before an ambulance arrives.
Community Training Volunteers are supported by their local county Community Engagement and Training Officer (CETO) at South Western Ambulance Service. As a Community Training Volunteer, you deliver an hour and a half long CPR and defibrillator awareness session. The sessions consist of a presentation and practical exercises. Through the session you will also:
- Raise awareness of the GoodSAM Application which aims to match those with CPR skills with out of hospital cardiac arrests;
- Raise awareness of the South Western Ambulance volunteer Community First Responder schemes;
- Raise awareness and invite donations for the South Western Ambulance Service Charity.
Overall, you will be giving members of the public the skills and knowledge to save a life.
Main duties of the job RESPONSIBILITIES
- Volunteer reliably and provide notice if unable to complete a scheduled session.
- Carry out volunteering tasks as guided by the local Community Engagement and Training Officer.
- Select and apply appropriate procedures in accordance with training received and relevant policies.
- Communicate with everyone in a clear, effective manner to ensure the best possible experience for all involved.
- Maintain confidentiality of the organisation and its patients in accordance with the Trust's information governance guidance and policy.
- Treat everyone with dignity and respect.
- Promote Equality & Diversity and a non‑discriminatory culture.
- Take action when other people's behaviour undermines expectations.
- Accept that there is no remuneration from the Trust for this role.
- Maintain appropriate standards of cleanliness of the SWAST Volunteer uniform, operating environment, and equipment.
About us
At South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) we have a culture where everyone is valued for being themselves. Our aim is to promote the most inclusive environment, attracting people from a wide range of backgrounds to enrich the work we do together, for the benefit of all of our employees, our patients and the communities we serve. We offer flexible working opportunities, inclusive policies, and a range of feedback mechanisms to support individuals and enable a positive, welcoming environment where our people and their careers can thrive.
We employ over 5,000 staff, mainly clinical, operational and emergency response personnel, as well as supporting roles, including doctors and volunteers such as community first responders and fire co‑responders. We strive to provide compassionate patient care whilst promoting a safe and enjoyable workplace.
Job Responsibilities
Applicants from the South West, especially from Bristol, Devon, Dorset, Somerset and Gloucestershire, are encouraged to apply.
Interview details: 29th July; location: Bristol Central Station Croydon St, Easton, Bristol BS5 0DA.
Two‑day training course: 22nd & 23rd August 2026. Training venue yet to be confirmed.
Person Specification
- Ability to drive to pre‑arranged training sessions using own vehicle or a Trust Community Response Vehicle.
- Effective communication with groups.
- Positive outlook.
- Good time management.
- Ability to interact with people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.
- Emotionally intelligent, able to handle sensitive subjects empathetically.
- Previous training in Basic Life Support (can be updated).
- Experience dealing with a range of age and social groups.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a submission to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Community Training Volunteer (Bristol) employer: SWAST
At South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture where every individual is valued. As a Community Training Volunteer in Bristol, you will not only gain invaluable experience in emergency response but also contribute to saving lives by empowering your community with essential CPR skills. We offer flexible volunteering opportunities, comprehensive training, and a chance to be part of a dedicated team committed to making a difference in the lives of others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Community Training Volunteer (Bristol)
✨Get Involved Locally
Check out local emergency services volunteer opportunities in your area. Joining community training sessions or workshops not only boosts your skills but also allows you to meet people already in the field. Plus, it’s a great way to get your name out there!
✨Join Professional Networks
Look for professional networks or associations related to emergency services. They often host events or training sessions that can connect you with potential mentors or even job opportunities within volunteer EMS programmes.
✨Show Your Commitment
When you're volunteering, show that you're dedicated! Consistency and reliability can make you stand out. If there’s a specific programme or event, offer to help out regularly. It demonstrates your passion for the work and helps build trust within the team.
✨Apply with Us!
Don't forget to check out our website for any volunteer positions we have available at SWAST. We frequently look for passionate individuals to join our EMS teams, so your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute can be the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Community Training Volunteer (Bristol)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:When applying for a role in emergency medical services like with SWAST, it’s crucial to outline any relevant qualifications you have. Make sure to include any certifications like CPR, First Aid, or even advanced EMT training. This shows you’re not just passionate but also prepared for the role!
Showcase Your Experience:If you’ve volunteered or been part of any healthcare or community support initiatives before, don’t forget to mention that! Discussing your hands-on experience in those situations can really highlight your ability to work under pressure and your commitment to helping others.
Emphasise Your Motivation:In your application, make it clear why you want to volunteer in EMS specifically. Talk about what drives you to help others in emergencies and how you believe you can make a difference with SWAST. Your passion can set you apart from the competition!
Keep It Concise and Clear:When writing your application, especially for a volunteer role, it’s important to be clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary and keep away from overly complex language. This makes it easier for the team at SWAST to see your value quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at SWAST
✨Show Your Passion for EMS
In your interview for a volunteer position in emergency medical services at SWAST, let your motivation shine through. Talk about why EMS is important to you and share any relevant experiences, even if they're not directly related. They want to see your commitment to helping others during critical times.
✨Brush Up on Medical Knowledge
Expect some technical questions that test your understanding of basic medical principles and emergency procedures. Review key topics like CPR, first aid, and how to handle various emergency scenarios. This will show that you're not just passionate but also prepared for the responsibilities of the role.
✨Be Ready for Situational Questions
In the EMS field, situational questions are common. They might ask how you would respond in a specific emergency. Prepare for these by thinking through various scenarios and your potential responses. Practising with a friend or mentor can help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Working in EMS is all about being part of a team. During the interview, share examples of when you’ve worked cohesively with others, especially in high-pressure situations. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and remain calm, as those qualities are essential in volunteer roles like the one at SWAST.
