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- Tasks: Be the calm voice in emergencies, guiding callers to safety and support.
- Company: Join South Central Ambulance Service, a trusted NHS foundation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27+ days holiday, NHS discounts, and full training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives during their toughest moments.
- Qualifications: Good education and customer service experience; no medical background needed.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 21500 - 22500 £ per year.
Imagine a large tree has fallen on your child and they’re trapped, screaming and helpless unable to move, or your friend collapses in front of you and they’re no longer breathing, a train crash with multiple casualties or someone on the edge of a bridge threatening to take their own life. What do you do? What’s your instinct? Most of us will pick up the phone and dial 999 straight away. Do you have the ability to be logical when those around you are lost in the middle of a crisis? Can you be the calm, soothing, and level-headed influence when we help new parents welcome their children to the world?
Please note: This role does not support remote working. You will need to be available to work from our Emergency Operations Centre in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
As an ambulance Emergency Call Taker here at SCAS based in Bicester, Oxfordshire, you could be the last voice that someone hears, as well as the first. We focus on caring for others during the best and worst moments of their life. In 2022, Emergency Call Takers at SCAS helped deliver 48 babies and successfully resuscitated 161 patients at the scene of an emergency. To be a part of our team and work in a privileged and trusted role with members of the public, you’ll need a good listening ear, attention to detail and accuracy, with the ability to use your voice to control a situation. Your words will lead your caller to a state of calm from afar, whilst you arrange the appropriate help for them. You do not need to have a medical background, just a desire to help. You’ll need to be detailed and efficient, assertive but compassionate.
Looking after yourself and caring for the team around you should also be a priority for you. We all contribute professionally to the wider team that we operate within here at SCAS, as we all have an important role to play in patient care. If this sounds like a challenge you’ll relish, and you have the resilience to achieve this time and time again throughout your working day, we want to hear from you!
Benefits we offer:
- Full training and a range of courses which you can book locally.
- Holiday entitlement of 27 days, rising to 29 days after 5 years’ service and 33 days after 10 years’ service, plus an additional 8 days bank holiday (pro rata for part time).
- Automatic enrolment into the NHS Pension Scheme.
- Access to continual professional development within SCAS and the wider NHS.
- Occupational Health support and direct access to our Employee Assistance Programme as well as our own Health and Wellbeing Team.
- NHS Discounts in over 200+ stores saving money on holidays, days out, car insurance, restaurants, clothing and much more.
- Ability to join our staff networking groups (as a member, ally or just for interest).
Corporate Induction
It’s really important for us to ensure you have the best onboarding experience which allows you to feel a sense of belonging from the start. To help with this, we will book your Corporate Induction as soon as we possibly can (depending on availability). All new starters need to attend our Corporate Induction in person, this is held over one and half days from our educational centres based in: Newbury (Berkshire), Bicester (Oxfordshire) or Whiteley (Hampshire). More specific details will be sent to you once your start date has been confirmed. Please note - depending on your role additional training may be required following on from your corporate induction.
If you are interested in a rewarding, yet demanding role where each day you make an impact to our patients care, then submit your application now!
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications & Training
- Good standard of education (i.e 2 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English) or equivalent demonstrable experience
Knowledge & Experience
- Experience of working in a customer focused environment
- Experience of using a computerised system
Desirable
- Experience of working in a call centre
- Experience of working rotating shifts
- Previous NHS experience
- Previous experience of patient care
Skills & Aptitudes
- Attention to detail and accurate data entry skills
- Ability to use communication and computerised systems.
Desirable
- Map reading.
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.
Emergency Call Taker Bicester employer: Woodworker's Journal Magazine
Contact Detail:
Woodworker's Journal Magazine Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Emergency Call Taker Bicester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research SCAS and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. As an Emergency Call Taker, you'll need to be calm and clear under pressure. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable with handling tough conversations.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. This can give you insider tips and might even lead to a referral, which can boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining SCAS and ready to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Emergency Call Taker Bicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your passion for helping others and your unique approach to problem-solving.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of an Emergency Call Taker. Mention any relevant customer service experience or situations where you've had to stay calm under pressure.
Showcase Your Skills: We’re looking for attention to detail and strong communication skills. Use your application to demonstrate these abilities, perhaps by sharing examples of how you've effectively communicated in challenging situations.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Woodworker's Journal Magazine
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being an Emergency Call Taker involves. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and the skills required, such as attention to detail and effective communication. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Practice Calm Communication
Since this role requires you to be a calming presence during emergencies, practice how you would communicate in high-pressure situations. You could role-play with a friend or family member, simulating emergency calls. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and maintain composure during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Being compassionate is crucial for this position. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated empathy or helped someone in distress. Sharing these stories will highlight your suitability for the role and your ability to connect with callers during their toughest moments.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, team dynamics, or how they support staff wellbeing. This shows that you’re not only interested in the job but also in how you can thrive within the team at SCAS.