Chris Ward joins aircrew as Trainee Critical Care Paramedic

Cornwall Air Ambulance has welcomed its newest aircrew recruit – trainee Specialist Paramedic in Critical Care, Chris Ward.

Based in Plymouth, Chris has been a paramedic with South Western Ambulance Service Foundation Trust for the last 20 years. Having most recently been an Education Lead for the south Devon area, he is now looking to develop and advance his clinical skills.

Chris said: “Over the last few years I’ve had an increasing interest in enhanced and critical care, so it felt like a natural stepping stone really. I love Cornwall and spend a lot of time down here; I think the vision of Cornwall Air Ambulance suited my needs and was the reason I decided to apply.

“I’m already getting involved with learning new skills, and being able to provide enhanced care to patients, the flying is also an added bonus! Before I joined the ambulance service, I was a medic in the Royal Navy. Based down at Culdrose I worked on the 771 Search and Rescue Air Squadron, so this is my second experience of HEMS and it’s exciting to get back in a helicopter and flying around this lovely county. It’s also great for surf checks!

“My training will involve going back to university and studying towards a relevant higher education qualification, and also a TCM course, which will enable me to sit next to the pilot and assist them with navigation and landing safely in the aircraft. In addition, I will be required to undertake a great deal of in-house training with the other paramedics and doctors, who have already been incredibly supportive towards me”.

In his spare time Chris likes to spend time with his wife and daughter and has also been a keen surfer for over 30 years. When the surf is no good he can be found enjoying other water-based activities including paddleboarding, open water swimming or just enjoying the coastline.