Visa Note
Even though this employer offers a certificate of sponsorship, international applicants must verify their visa/work permit eligibility directly with the employer. Sponsorship is not guaranteed for all candidates.
Job Summary
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust is excited to announce volunteering opportunities for Community First Responders across BSW (BANES, Swindon and Wiltshire). This is an excellent opportunity for international candidates looking to gain valuable experience in the UK healthcare system while contributing to their local community.
About the Role
As a Community First Responder, you will be a trained volunteer who attends emergency calls on behalf of the South Western Ambulance Service. You will provide essential patient care and basic life support until the arrival of an emergency ambulance. This role is highly rewarding, offering opportunities to meet new people and learn valuable lifesaving skills.
Location
The position is based in Wiltshire, with particular interest in applicants from the following areas: Malmesbury, Ludgershall, Tidworth, Cricklade, Ramsbury, Royal Wootton Bassett, Bradford on Avon, Mere, Tisbury, Devizes, Calne, Midsommer Norton, Lavingtons, Warminster, rural district west of Salisbury, Teffont, Berwick St James, Broad Chalke, Paulton, Pewsey, Westbury and Lyneham.
Employment Details
This is a voluntary (unpaid) position with a part-time schedule. The role offers flexibility with home or remote working options. The employer is South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, and the reference number is 202 – 4970812.
Essential Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must hold a full driving licence for at least one year with no more than 6 current penalty points. You must also have access to a vehicle with current tax, MOT and insurance for your use. Previous experience (paid or unpaid) relevant to the role is essential.
Desirable Qualifications
While not required, having a current advanced driving qualification or an up-to-date First Aid Qualification would be advantageous. Any previous experience in a similar role, whether paid or unpaid, would strengthen your application.
Training and Development
Selected candidates will undergo comprehensive training provided by South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. The training will be held at Methuen Park, Chippenham on specific dates in March 2026. Successful completion of the Level 3 Award for First Responders on Scene is required to complete the recruitment process.
Commitment
Volunteers are expected to commit to a minimum of 12 hours per week. This role requires dedication and reliability as you will be providing critical emergency support to your local community.
About South Western Ambulance Service
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) values diversity and inclusivity. The organization employs over 5,000 people including clinical, operational and emergency response staff, as well as doctors and volunteers. They offer flexible working opportunities, inclusive policies, and various feedback mechanisms to support their employees.
Certificate of Sponsorship
The employer welcomes applications from international candidates who require skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK. All applications will be considered regardless of immigration status. However, applicants must present criminal record certificates from any country where they have resided for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This position is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required to verify any previous criminal convictions.
Application Process
The application deadline is 14 January 2026. Interviews are scheduled for the week commencing Monday 2nd February 2026. Applicants must be able to attend all training dates in March 2026.
How to Apply
To apply for this position, please visit the NHS Jobs website and submit your application. International applicants should include details of their immigration status and any required sponsorship information. Ensure you have:
- Verified your visa eligibility with the employer
- Prepared documentation for criminal record checks from all relevant countries
li>Contacted Nick Chown (HR Services Officer) at [email protected] with any questions
Why Join Us?
This role offers international candidates a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience in the UK healthcare system while making a real difference in people’s lives. You’ll develop transferable skills, build professional networks, and contribute to emergency services in the UK.
Equal Opportunities
South Western Ambulance Service is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. They actively promote an inclusive environment that attracts people from diverse experiences to enrich their work.
Further Information
For more information about this role or the organization, please visit the employer’s website at https://www.swast.nhs.uk. Additional information, including a video about the role, is available under the volunteer recruitment section.
Privacy Notice
For information about how your data will be processed, please refer to South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust’s privacy notice available at https://www.swast.nhs.uk/assets/1/privacy_notice-employees.pdf.
Supporting Documents
The complete job description and person specification are available as supporting documents with the application. Please review these carefully before submitting your application.
Contact Information
For questions about the job, contact Nick Chown (HR Services Officer) at [email protected]. Please note that phone contact information is not provided.
