The development of this Command and Control Guidance has considered lessons identified from recent major incidents and event responses across England, the UK and wider global events in addition to the updated practice among our Police and Fire and Rescue Services.
The aim of the Guidance is to assist the Ambulance Commander in taking appropriate and consistent considerations to inform decision making, based on sound risk management in making evidence based and informed decisions based on the information available at the time.
This guidance is designed to provide a structured approach to managing major or complex incidents for the ambulance service, to ensure that we are able to meet the expectations of legislation and guidance, our multi-agency partners and the needs of the public we serve by saving as many lives as possible.
It is recognised that each organisation has specific needs and considerations to ensure that their incident response and business continuity arrangements are addressed through appropriate plans.
This guidance should provide assurances to our multi agency partners of our commitment to learn from lessons of previous incidents and events and to ensure that the NHS Ambulance Services remain an essential element of the civil protection capabilities across England; protecting the public and saving lives.
It is important to recognise and thank the individuals who contributed to the development of this Guidance. It will undoubtedly provide further support and protection to staff enabling them to deliver the best possible care and service to the public. This Guidance has been developed in conjunction with and contributions from Northern Ireland, Scottish and Welsh Ambulance Services.
Read the National Ambulance Service Command and Control Guidance here.