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East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) has become the first ambulance service in the UK to launch two innovative training tools – REACT-XR and REACT-TTX – designed to enhance emergency preparedness through virtual reality (VR) and scenario-based exercises.
The new platforms allow ambulance crews and specialist teams to practise responding to major incidents in a safe, controlled environment. Using VR headsets, staff can immerse themselves in realistic emergency scenarios, such as treating multiple casualties in public spaces or workplaces and managing a variety of injury types.
Alongside the VR element, crews participate in group-based tabletop exercises where they discuss incident management strategies, decision-making processes, and teamwork approaches. This blended training aims to improve skills, strengthen team coordination, and ensure a consistent standard of care across the region.
The initiative was developed in collaboration with the programme’s creators after EMAS secured funding and support from its Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR) team. The service is continuing to expand the range of available training scenarios and exploring opportunities to deliver joint exercises with other emergency services.
Jonny Berrecloth, Special Operations Training Manager at EMAS, said the new approach is already proving valuable: “This training provides our staff with additional opportunities to practise and develop their skills in a safe environment. We continue to review feedback and develop the programme to support our teams and the communities we serve. We are grateful to our teams for their positive approach and willingness to adopt new ways of learning, helping us continue to improve emergency care for our communities.”
By harnessing cutting-edge digital training, EMAS aims to ensure its emergency responders are better equipped to handle the complex and high-pressure situations they may encounter in real life.
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