Stress among ambulance crews ‘is running at epidemic levels’

Ambulance workers are suffering from “epidemic” levels of stress, amid unrealistic targets and excessive workloads, a new study suggests.

A survey of 550 members of the Unite union found that over half suffered from anxiety, while many reported feeling depressed, irritable, or traumatised by their work. Many complained of late finishes and a lack of flexible working.

A third said they had been diagnosed with a mental health problem, with many taking time off sick as a result.

Unite’s Debbie Wilkinson said: “Frontline ambulance staff are suffering serious levels of stress. It is time for us to care for the carer.”