Ambulance service hiring temporary staff in the UK

The Ambulance and Rescue Service has announced plans to enhance its operational capacity in Alderney over the coming weeks by bringing in temporary clinicians from the UK. This move aims to ensure consistent service delivery by covering staff absences due to illness and filling short-term gaps.

These UK-based personnel will participate in induction and familiarisation sessions this week before taking on active duties on the island.

In addition to temporary support, the service has appointed two new full-time crew members, who are expected to start in the new year. This will increase the year-round staffing available on Alderney.

Aimee Lihou, head of quality and patient safety and the senior officer overseeing Alderney, explained: The engagement of agency staff is a short-term solution to maintain resilience during the winter months, when demand on health services typically rises.

She added that permanent expansion of the Alderney team is underway, with current vacancies now filled. The team will grow to five members by early 2026. The first new recruit has already begun training in Guernsey, while the second is scheduled to start in January.

Coverage of ambulance services on the island remains funded through taxation.

Author: Sophia Brooks