How to become an emergency medical dispatcher
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
Good computer skills and a typing qualification could be useful to get into this job, for example:
- Level 2 Award in Touch Typing
- Level 2 ECDL Award in IT User Skills
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements for this route.
More Information
Apprenticeship
You can get into this role through an advanced apprenticeship in emergency service contact handling.
You'll usually need to be over 18 years old and may need a GCSE grade 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English or equivalent.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
More Information
Volunteering
Paid or unpaid experience of working in healthcare would be useful. You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator or manager at your local NHS trust for advice about opportunities.
You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to your local ambulance service.
Each service sets their own entry requirements, though it may help your application if you have:
- GCSEs grade 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English, maths and science
- experience in customer care, like a call centre operator
- map reading skills and knowledge of local geography
- an understanding of medical terminology
- the ability to speak a community language
- a recognised and up-to-date first aid qualification
More Information
Career tips
When applying for jobs and apprenticeships, you'll be expected to have an understanding of how NHS values apply in your work.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming an emergency medical dispatcher from Health Careers.