At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage emergency calls and deploy ambulances in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join the South Western Ambulance Service, a vital part of the NHS.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £26,530, 27 days leave, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours available; work shifts across a vibrant city.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: 4 GCSEs at C grade or above, including English, and good communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 26530 - 26530 £ per year.
Opportunities have arisen within South Western Ambulance Service in the Clinical Hubs for Dispatchers. The successful candidates will be integral members of the 999 control room team with responsibility for the effective deployment and management of Trust vehicles to emergency and non‑emergency calls across the Trust area. Part‑time hours will be considered through the flexible working application. The role is 24/7, 365 days a year and we work shifts to achieve this.
Main duties of the job:
- 4 GCSEs at C grade or above, including English (or equivalent)
- Good oral communication skills
- The ability to be tactful and diplomatic as required
- Be prepared to work shifts (24/7 rota providing cover on weekends, nights and bank holidays)
- Ability to work calmly under pressure
What we can offer you:
- Starting salary of £26,530
- Unsocial hours enhancements (in accordance with NHS Terms and Conditions Agenda for Change section 2)
- 27 days annual leave plus additional bank holiday leave allocated
- Access to the trust staying well service, offering emotional support such as counselling, specialist trauma work and a range of other advice and information services offered through statutory and voluntary agencies
- Significant career progression opportunities within the Clinical Hub and wider trust
About us:
Working for us is an experience like no other. We provide emergency and urgent care, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, operating across the largest ambulance region in England and responding to an average of 2,650 incidents every day. We remain committed to ensuring that we provide the best possible care for all our patients, which is reflected in our new five‑year strategy which has continually improving patient care at its very core. The role is based in Exeter, one of the most vibrant, attractive and historically interesting cities in England, with excellent transport links and a great mix of independent shops, cafes and bars.
If you embody our values of one team, compassionate and innovative and are looking to make a real difference to peoples' lives, then we would love to hear from you. In return we will equip you with the skills and resources you need to thrive in your role. You will have opportunities to progress to roles across the Trust and enjoy continuous professional development.
A standard working week of 37.5 hours. Holiday entitlements of 27 days per year, plus general and public holidays, rising to 29 days after 5 years and 33 days after 10 years. Pay enhancements for out of hours, shift and overtime working. Career and salary progression. Car leasing scheme. Free parking across Trust sites. Staff networks. Wide range of discounts from various organisations across the UK.
Right to work / Certificate of Sponsorship: This role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under current Home Office regulations. You must have the existing right to work in the UK to be considered for this position.
Person Specification Qualifications:
- 4 GCSE's (or equivalent) at Grade C or above including English
- Experience in dealing with a diverse range of people in a customer/patient environment
- Experience of inputting data accurately and quickly using a Keyboard
- Experience in working in the voluntary or health sector
- Experience using a telephone/computer as a regular means of communication in a work environment
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Ambulance Dispatcher - Exeter in Devon employer: SWAST
Contact Detail:
SWAST Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Ambulance Dispatcher - Exeter in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of an Ambulance Dispatcher and the values of South Western Ambulance Service. This will help you shine during interviews and assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a dispatcher, you'll need to be calm and clear under pressure. Try mock scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable with the types of calls you might handle.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events related to emergency services. They can provide insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the latest updates and opportunities directly from us.
We think you need these skills to ace Ambulance Dispatcher - Exeter in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Communication Skills: As an Ambulance Dispatcher, you'll need to communicate effectively. Make sure your application highlights your oral communication skills and any experience dealing with diverse people. We want to see how you can handle conversations with tact and diplomacy!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the role. Mention your relevant experience in customer service or the health sector, as this will make you stand out to us.
Be Ready for Shift Work: This role involves working shifts, so it’s important to mention your flexibility in your application. Let us know that you're prepared to work weekends, nights, and bank holidays. We appreciate candidates who understand the demands of a 24/7 operation!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our Trust there!
How to prepare for a job interview at SWAST
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of an Ambulance Dispatcher. Understand the importance of effective vehicle deployment and management during emergency calls. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
As a dispatcher, strong oral communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to role-play scenarios where you have to communicate under pressure, as this will show your ability to remain calm and tactful.
✨Prepare for Shift Work Questions
Since the role involves working shifts, be ready to discuss your flexibility and willingness to work unsocial hours. Think about how you manage your time and energy during night shifts or weekends, and be prepared to share examples.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Dispatchers often face unexpected situations. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully resolved issues or made quick decisions under pressure. This will highlight your ability to think on your feet, which is crucial in this role.