A day in the life of a forensic paramedic

I have worked for West Midlands Ambulance Service since 2009, qualifying as a paramedic in 2013. I joined Mitie (Care and Custody), working with Leicestershire Police in 2017, gaining an additional BSc level module in Forensic and Legal Medicine. I now work part-time in both roles, which gives me a good work/life balance, while enjoying the diversity and advantages of a mixed skillset. The varied and challenging role of a forensic healthcare professional (HCP) is ideal for a paramedic, demanding confidence and assertiveness with the ability to make quick, autonomous decisions.

I work in a 36-cell custody block in Leicester, staffed 24/7 with HCPs—a role traditionally undertaken by nurses or doctors, but now with three paramedics on our team.

Our day starts with a 6:45 am handover where any medical concerns for the detained persons (detainees) are highlighted. These can be wide-ranging and may include treatment for opiate or alcohol withdrawal, or administration of a detainee's own prescribed medication which must be verified. Medications can be checked against the individual's Summary Care Record if appropriate, with their consent. Conditions such as insulin-dependent diabetes or epilepsy can be complex to manage in a custodial environment, especially when the individual is non-compliant with medication or is alcohol-dependent.