A newly-qualified ambulance technician in Powys is inviting others to follow in his footsteps.

Ben Astley joined the Welsh Ambulance Service as an Urgent Care Assistant during the Covid-19 pandemic and has since qualified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), based in Newtown.

The 31-year-old Powys native works with paramedics and other technicians to deliver pre-hospital emergency care to patients who have called 999.

The father-of-two is now inviting others to pursue the same career.

County Times:

Ben said: “I joined the Welsh Ambulance Service as I thought it’s such a rewarding service.

“I’ve been to many different emergencies across different terrains, from agricultural incidents, mountain walker mishaps to motor sport accidents.

“I’ve never thought about leaving Powys as I love the area, the countryside is beautiful, and it has such diverse towns.

“By working as an EMT in a rural area, I’m able to treat a range of different people, including a vast number of injuries.

“Although the hospitals are further away, it actually helps me improve my clinical skills and the scenery is fantastic.

“I never have a boring shift.”

Ben began his emergency service career with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service eight years ago, and still works there now as a Crew Manager.

He said: “With my EMT role, I’m still able to work in Welshpool with the fire service, take care of my two children and I’ve actually joined the Welsh Ambulance Service rugby team.

“Although I’ve only just qualified as an EMT, there are so many progression opportunities within the service.

“I haven’t ruled out becoming a paramedic, but at the moment I love being an EMT and everything that comes with it.

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“Myself and a couple of staff members from Newtown station recently had the pleasure of meeting up with a 16-year-old cardiac arrest patient we saved, and it’s moments like this where I just love my job even more.

“I have the best job in the world, in the best area and I wouldn’t change it.”

If Ben has inspired you to start your EMT journey, the Welsh Ambulance is recruiting full-time, permanent Trainee EMTs in Powys.

Full training is given, and the 19-week training course begins next month.

Successful candidates can work from stations in Llanfyllin, Llanidloes, Machynllenth, Newtown, Welshpool, Crickhowell, Knighton and Llandrindod Wells.

Apply here: Job Advert (jobs.nhs.uk)

The closing date for applications is Wednesday (February 15).