New paramedics in Wales advised to apply for jobs abroad – reports

Newly qualified paramedics in Wales have been advised to apply for jobs abroad because of a hiring freeze, it has been reported.

The Welsh Ambulance Service said that it was facing a “difficult financial and operational landscape” as it confirmed that it would not employ any newly qualified paramedics this year.

The Welsh Government said it was working to “address these challenges and support graduates”.

Students have told BBC News that they have been advised to apply for jobs in New Zealand, Canada and Australia.

The Welsh Ambulance Service, the only ambulance service in Wales, said that graduates could apply for emergency medical technician roles, which pay less and do not require the same level of education as a paramedic.

They could also “consider opportunities with other ambulance services and organisations across the health and social care sector”, the Service said.

Students in Wales can train to become paramedics by getting a paramedic science degree at either Swansea University or Wrexham University.

A full NHS bursary to cover tuition fees and living costs is available for the programme.

People can also train through a vocational route by working as an ambulance care assistant or trainee emergency medical technician and studying part time.

Carl Kneeshaw, director of people at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “Like many NHS organisations, we are navigating a difficult financial and operational landscape, which means that decisions about recruitment have to be based on a range of factors, including current staffing levels, service demand, workforce skill mix and affordability.

“Regrettably, as things stand, we are not in a position to employ newly qualified paramedics this year.

“We know this will be deeply disappointing for those hoping to start their careers with us, especially after the time, effort and commitment they have invested in their training, but we are committed to supporting them as they consider their next steps.”

Other opportunities

He added: “For graduates who want to build a career with the Welsh Ambulance Service, we would encourage them to explore other opportunities with us, including emergency medical technician roles, which we expect to recruit to throughout 2026, and which offer valuable frontline experience, ongoing development and a potential route into future paramedic opportunities.

“We would also encourage graduates to consider opportunities with other ambulance services and organisations across the health and social care sector, where their skills and knowledge will be just as valued.

“We are working closely with our university partners and Health Education and Improvement Wales to understand the impact of this decision on graduates and future workforce planning.”

The Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We are committed to ensuring our investment in NHS education and training is supported by meaningful employment opportunities.

“We are working closely with the Welsh Ambulance Services Trust (WAST), Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) and universities to address these challenges and support graduates.”