When Amy Swallow first considered becoming a paramedic, she wasn’t sure whether it was something she could do.
Now 22, she is working on the frontline with East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS), supporting patients through some of the most difficult moments in their lives and continuing to grow in confidence as a newly qualified paramedic (NQP).
This year’s International Paramedics Day, taking place on Wednesday 8 July, celebrates the theme Innovate and Integrate. For Amy, it is an opportunity to reflect on the beginning of a career dedicated to helping others.
Finding the right path
Amy knew from a young age that she wanted a career that made a positive difference.
“As I got into college, I knew I wanted to do something to help people. I always liked biology and medicine but wasn’t sure what my options were.
“A few months into my studies, I started thinking about becoming a paramedic.
“Then I realised I could go to university to study it and knew it was the type of job I’d fit into well.
“I feel I’ve been supported throughout my training through university and EMAS.
“Everyone I’ve met at EMAS as a newly qualified paramedic has been amazing and really supportive.
“They’ve been brilliant at providing assurance when I’ve needed it.”
Beyond the emergency
For Amy, being a paramedic is about more than responding to emergencies.
“I enjoy being able to talk to people and work out how best we can help them.
“Sometimes it’s something small, like holding someone’s hand or helping them access the right support for their healthcare needs.
“It’s nice to know you’ve been able to make a difference.”
Amy says some of the most rewarding moments come when patients receive support that continues beyond the immediate situation.
“If people slip through the net, it’s nice that we can provide that holistic care which helps them more long-term.”
Getting involved
Alongside her frontline role, Amy continues to be involved in work to improve sexual safety for student paramedics.
While at university, she became a student representative, sharing feedback from fellow students to help inform wider discussions across EMAS. Amy has continued to support this work since qualifying.
Her involvement has helped strengthen understanding of student experiences and shape ongoing work to improve safety and support.
For Amy, the experience reinforced the value of getting involved and speaking to people across the organisation.
“Don’t be afraid to speak to people, including those more senior than you.
“We’re all there to do the same job.
“The more you getting to chat to people, the more opportunities arise to share ideas.”
Looking ahead
Although she is still at the beginning of her career, Amy is excited about what lies ahead.
She has recently been helping introduce young people to the profession through school visits and is currently training to become a volunteer schools’ trainer.
The opportunity to share her experiences with pupils is another way Amy feels she can make a positive difference and encourage others to consider careers in healthcare.
She would encourage anyone considering the profession have confidence in themselves and know support is available when they need it.
“There will always be tough days, but there are good days too.
“There’s lots of support networks available at EMAS if you need it.”
As EMAS marks International Paramedics Day, Amy’s story reflects a profession built on compassion, learning, and continuous development – and a new generation of paramedics finding their feet, building confident and making a difference.