![](https://emergencyservicestimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ESS-Button-resized.png")
A new national resource has been launched to support ambulance staff after major, complex or distressing incidents.
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) has developed an Employee Response Toolkit Template, which has now been adopted into the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) portfolio. Every NHS ambulance trust can now adapt the model for their own teams.
The launch ties in with International Stress Awareness Week (3–7 November 2025) and aims to reinforce the importance of psychological safety and compassionate leadership across the ambulance sector. It positions mental health support as a core part of practice rather than an optional extra.
The template was co-written by SWASFT’s Senior Academic Support Lead and Research Paramedic, Sasha Johnston, and Head of Wellbeing and Occupational Health, Lauren Dunn. It draws from lived experience within SWASFT and from the trust’s Staying Well Service.
The toolkit sets out a structured framework for supporting staff in both the immediate and longer-term aftermath of serious events, from major multi-agency incidents to emotionally difficult cases that may not make headlines but still have a lasting impact.
“This is the first nationally available toolkit of its kind. It represents real progress in how ambulance services support their people after potentially traumatic events. It is designed for every role in the ambulance service and helps ensure support is timely, consistent and compassionate.
“Its publication during International Stress Awareness Week is also a reminder of how important it is to look after the mental health and wellbeing of those delivering emergency care.”
Anna Parry, Managing Director of AACE.
The toolkit aims to:
- support early intervention to reduce long-term harm
- build resilience and help colleagues return to work with confidence
- encourage open conversations about mental health
- reduce absence and presenteeism through proactive care
- support employer duty of care under current HSE guidance
- embed learning and staff feedback into future response
- align with NHS Safe Learning Environment principles
“This framework was co-produced with colleagues who shared their lived experience of major and distressing incidents. Their insight has shaped a practical guide that recognises both the immediate impact and the fact that the effects can resurface later – for example through media coverage, inquests or hearings.
“We are proud to see this now become a national resource. Our thanks go to everyone who contributed so that no colleague feels they are left to cope alone.”
Sasha Johnston, Senior Academic Support Lead and Research Paramedic, SWASFT.
The Employee Response Toolkit Template (SWASFT version) is available here.
To read similar articles, check out our People and skills channel.
