Ensure all ambulances have at least two crew on every journey
The Issue
Recently, I experienced a situation that left me both shocked and concerned for the wellbeing of those who support us in our most vulnerable moments. I boarded an ambulance in England, expecting the usual professional and supportive environment. However, I quickly learned that the sole crew member was a woman who had been left to manage the entire emergency situation on her own. The story she shared was both frightening and unacceptable, highlighting significant risks to her safety and to those relying on these critical services.
No ambulance driver should ever have to face such challenges alone. These brave individuals are our lifeline in emergencies, yet we sometimes forget the perils they face while helping others. Sadly, budget cuts and staffing shortages have resulted in situations where drivers are left to manage alone, navigating traffic, providing urgent care, and handling emergencies without any backup.
According to data from the National Health Service (NHS) England, staffing shortages have been a growing concern. The British Medical Journal reported a significant percentage of Emergency Medical Service staff reporting burnout and stress due to overwhelming workloads. It's crucial that we address this for the safety and efficiency of the service and for the welfare of the staff.
We propose that NHS England mandates all ambulances are staffed with a minimum of two crew members on every journey. This ensures better support for the driver and patient, improving response times and quality of care, while also safeguarding the mental and physical health of these healthcare professionals.
By mandating a minimum crew size, we not only protect those who dedicate their lives to helping others, but we also enhance the level of care available to patients. It's a win-win situation for the NHS workforce and for all of us who may one day need their services.
I am calling on everyone who believes in protecting and valuing our healthcare heroes to sign this petition. Together, we can urge NHS England to make the necessary changes to ensure the safety of our ambulance staff and improve the quality of care provided to patients across the nation. Please join me in this crucial cause by signing this petition.
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The Issue
Recently, I experienced a situation that left me both shocked and concerned for the wellbeing of those who support us in our most vulnerable moments. I boarded an ambulance in England, expecting the usual professional and supportive environment. However, I quickly learned that the sole crew member was a woman who had been left to manage the entire emergency situation on her own. The story she shared was both frightening and unacceptable, highlighting significant risks to her safety and to those relying on these critical services.
No ambulance driver should ever have to face such challenges alone. These brave individuals are our lifeline in emergencies, yet we sometimes forget the perils they face while helping others. Sadly, budget cuts and staffing shortages have resulted in situations where drivers are left to manage alone, navigating traffic, providing urgent care, and handling emergencies without any backup.
According to data from the National Health Service (NHS) England, staffing shortages have been a growing concern. The British Medical Journal reported a significant percentage of Emergency Medical Service staff reporting burnout and stress due to overwhelming workloads. It's crucial that we address this for the safety and efficiency of the service and for the welfare of the staff.
We propose that NHS England mandates all ambulances are staffed with a minimum of two crew members on every journey. This ensures better support for the driver and patient, improving response times and quality of care, while also safeguarding the mental and physical health of these healthcare professionals.
By mandating a minimum crew size, we not only protect those who dedicate their lives to helping others, but we also enhance the level of care available to patients. It's a win-win situation for the NHS workforce and for all of us who may one day need their services.
I am calling on everyone who believes in protecting and valuing our healthcare heroes to sign this petition. Together, we can urge NHS England to make the necessary changes to ensure the safety of our ambulance staff and improve the quality of care provided to patients across the nation. Please join me in this crucial cause by signing this petition.
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Petition created on 4 March 2026