999 Call Handler – Emergency Medical Dispatcher (Bristol)

About the role

As a 999 Call Handler you will be the first point of contact for anyone dialing emergency services in the Bristol area. Working within the South Western Ambulance Service Emergency Operations Centre, you will assess calls, gather vital information and ensure the right care is dispatched quickly.

Key responsibilities

• Answer 999 emergency calls and determine the nature and severity of the incident.
• Record accurate patient details and clinical information using the dispatch computer system.
• Provide callers with appropriate advice, reassurance and instructions.
• Prioritise and allocate ambulance resources based on established protocols.
• Maintain detailed logs of each call and hand over information to responding crews.
• Work rotating shifts to provide 24/7, 365‑day coverage, including weekends and holidays.

Required profile

• Excellent listening and communication skills, especially under pressure.
• Ability to remain calm, make quick decisions and follow clinical guidelines.
• Team‑oriented mindset and willingness to work flexible shift patterns.
• Commitment to delivering compassionate care to patients and callers.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive NHS salary and generous annual leave entitlement.
• Full NHS pension scheme and other employee benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression within the Trust.
• Supportive team environment and access to training for emergency dispatch protocols.