Off-Duty E-zec ACAs on Hand to Help

Two off-duty ambulance care assistants (ACAs) acted selflessly upon coming across a three-car collision, and were quickly on hand to assist.

E-zec’s Graham Lawrence and Stephen Harding, based at the company’s Dorset operations, were driving back towards Weymouth from Sherborne after finishing their shift, and came across a three-car collision with only a fire engine in attendance. With their knowledge and expertise, they decided to stop and support those involved, while waiting for the ambulance crew to arrive. 

Graham said: “When we approached Charlton Down, we came across the incident which had not long happened – there were two damaged cars in the road and one that had lost control and flew through the hedge and into the neighbouring field. The driver of this car was trapped in his seat, and the fire crew were assessing how to remove him safely. 

“In the meantime, an off-duty LAS Paramedic also arrived on scene, and together we got an IV into the driver, took his stats, and gave him some oxygen. He had sustained a head injury due to the impact and was experiencing some memory loss, so we talked to him, providing comfort and reassurance. And while the fire crew cut the roof off of the car, we held a sheet over him to protect him from the debris.” 

“Once the roof was removed and the ambulance crew present, we helped the gentleman onto the stretcher and proceeded to encase him with a VAC mat, which was used to immobilise him as we suspected he had broken his right clavicle,” added Steve.  

Kerena O’Connell, National Safeguarding Lead and Operations Manager at E-zec Dorset, explained: “We’re so incredibly proud of Graham and Steve, and are grateful for their selfless quick-thinking to support the fire crew in what must have been a difficult and distressing situation. They’re a real asset to the team, and encompass all that E-zec promotes – supporting our local communities, and making them a better, and safer, place to be. 

“We were contacted by David Foxwell, Crew Manager at Dorchester Fire Service, who passed on his thanks and gratitude for their voluntary assistance – priding them for their professionalism and duty of care.”

Salisbury Recruitment Open Day

Fancy finding out more about a career in the ambulance service? Learn about our world-class Apprenticeship Programme, starting with the ACA Academy. Chat to the people from Basegreen – our preferred training partner… Don’t miss our Recruitment Open Day in Salisbury on the 2nd of February, from 9am til 4pm. Unit 19, Harnham Trading Estate, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 8NW.

E-zec becomes a Dementia Friends’ ambassador

E-zec is enhancing its customer care in local communities by partnering with an Alzheimer’s initiative.

E-zec is a registered Dementia Friend and is supporting all of its Ambulance Care Assistants (ACAs) within the firm with additional training and education about dementia to allow them to spot the signs and symptoms, and ultimately ensure they can effectively support their communities.

Simon Pill, Head of Learning and Development at E-zec said, “We’re proud to be a recognised Dementia Friend – an organisation which aims to raise nationwide awareness and understanding of the syndrome.

“With our ACAs working in close proximity with the local community, we believe it’s an extremely valuable addition to our enhanced learning and development programme. Not only will it allow our team to be armed with all the support and information necessary to care most appropriately with dementia-related illnesses, but also boost the overall experience for our service users.”

Dementia Friends is a nationwide Alzheimer’s Society initiative, and is available for any individual who wants to help people with dementia in their community. 

“Each of our ACAs will be encouraged to register with Dementia Friends, providing them the most up-to-date information, as well as a library of resources for ongoing learning,” Simon continued. “Plus, they’ll be awarded with a Badge and Action card, which we will be wearing with pride.”

Justine Vaughan, Chief People Officer at E-zec, added: “As part of our dedication to our people, we’re always seeking new and innovative ways to enhance the learning opportunities available for our teams, all whilst ensuring we provide the very best possible care for our service users.

And, we’re excited to share the introduction of our Dementia Friends partnership with our ACAs, providing them with valuable resources and additional support in understanding dementia-related diseases. Plus, it allows them to offer more inclusive care for those within our local communities.”

For more information about Dementia Friends, or how you can get involved in your own community, visit: www.dementiafriends.org.uk.

E-zec Apprenticeships: On the road with Basegreen

So… 2023! It’s a new year – is it time for a fresh start? Do you fancy a career in the ambulance service? Would you like to be supported through a world-class apprenticeship programme? Like the thought of our all-new ACA Academy? Come along to one of our interesting, information and engaging open day road shows with Basegreen and find out more about one of the most rewarding careers out there.

Sign up for one of the roadshows in Bristol, Swindon and Gloucester today: forms.office.com/e/3bZRqynX3A