Being there in a crisis: increasing access to the paramedic profession for BME communities

In 2013-14, the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) reported that only 3.4% of paramedic learners with HEIs were from a minority ethnic background. Similarly, the National Ambulance Diversity Forum found that only 7.4% of paramedics employed nationally are from a minority ethnic background). Promoting ethnic diversity in paramedic education and the profession is beneficial as evidence suggests that having a workforce that represents the communities those health professionals serve reduces health inequalities.
This project aims to improve access, participation and progression of minority ethnic groups, thus across the career cycle from pre-university to post-registration. Based on an asset-based community development model, the project offers enhancement opportunities for students to focus on their existing strengths and motivation, develop a sense of agency, build a supportive learning community, and empower each other to achieve their academic and professional potential. The interventions will therefore be co-designed with stakeholders (e.g., students, paramedics and community) as part of the project cycle.