Racing to save lives on the front line for East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) can be a challenging yet immensely rewarding role.
Teamwork, technical skills and remaining calm under pressure are all required to respond to potentially life-threatening medical emergencies.
For Adrian Utting, a 55-year-old Specialist Practitioner from Leicester, his time in the RAF Air Cadets paved the way for a career in the emergency services.
Adrian, whose role sees him suturing wounds, supporting patients at the end of their life and leading on cardiac arrests, said: “My time as a Cadet prepared me for the dedication, teamwork and training required in the ambulance service.”
He added: “No two days at EMAS are the same. I’ve had many opportunities to progress through different roles and I’ve made lifelong friends.
“Most importantly, I take pride in making a difference to our patients and their families.”
Young people are taught sought-after communication, leadership, and first-aid skills in the Cadet Forces. Independent research found that by attending weekly parade nights and annual camps, Cadets also develop personal resilience and greater confidence.
The same also applies to Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs). Since ageing out, civic-minded Adrian has volunteered with the RAF Air Cadets, currently as Deputy Officer Commanding of 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron.
Golden support
EMAS recognises the significant value that Cadets and CFAVs, as well as Reservists, Service-Leavers and Military Partners, add to their workforce.
To recruit and retain more members of the Defence Community, the organisation has established a guaranteed interview scheme for those who meet the minimum essential criteria, and it offers five additional days’ leave for CFAVs.
Kirstie Parker, Regional Employer Engagement Director for the East Midlands, said: “Through its engagement with the Employer Recognition Scheme, EMAS has demonstrated the type of mutually-beneficial relationship that is possible between an employer and Defence.
“Over the years EMAS has become a tireless supporter and advocate for Defence and through attracting and retaining valuable employees such as Adrian, it is clear that work is bearing fruit.”
The strength of their support was evidenced in 2024 when EMAS, which signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2020, was presented with the prestigious Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – the Ministry of Defence’s highest honour for Forces-friendly organisations.
It was also evident in the decision of Adrian’s son, Ashley, a former RAF Air Cadet and current CFAV at 1947 (Birstall) Squadron, to follow in his Dad’s footsteps.
Making a difference
Ashley, 25, currently works at EMAS as an Ambulance Support Crew, responding to patients referred for further assessment and, if necessary, transporting them to the hospital.
Ashley credits the Cadets for helping him develop the core skills needed for the ambulance service and said: “I was drawn to EMAS because I know, from my dad’s experience, that there are good career progression opportunities.
“No two days or jobs are ever the same. Most importantly, I love knowing that I am making a difference to people in their time of need.
“If you see a job advertised at EMAS, I would encourage you to apply. Don’t be afraid to showcase skills developed in the Cadets and how they can benefit the service.”
