The life-saving work of the critical care unit is set to be recognised in the documentary series ‘Critical: Between Life and Death’ which will be available to stream from July 23.
The series will follow clinicians at the service and major trauma centres across the capital, as they provide urgent care to London’s most critically injured patients.
In a dramatic first episode, viewers will watch as paramedics respond to a fairground ride crash in Brockwell Park.
The incident left several, including children, in need of emergency assistance.
Advanced Paramedic Rory Saggers, who coordinated the emergency response from the tactical operations centre, said: “They were having a nice day, and then very quickly that changed.
“We always remember that patients involved in incidents like this are having the worst day of their life.”
The opening episode will also introduce viewers to Flight Paramedic Nick Baxter and Advanced Paramedic Lara Hammond who were called upon to support the ambulance resources at the scene of the fairground crash.
Ms Hammond said: “I was working on a night shift out of Croydon and Rory rang me to ask if I mind taking an early job as we had declared a significant incident.
“It was surreal because the fair was still going on and there were families around, but there was this cordoned-off area where the ride had crashed.
“It must have been a terrifying day for those involved who was enjoying a day out at the fair.
“You’re there to prioritise patients and ensure they get the best possible care.”
Episode two will follow Advanced Paramedic Peter Kingsley as he attends to motorcyclist Jared, who suffered a limb-threatening open leg fracture in a crash.
Mr Kingsley said: “When I go into work, I have literally no idea what I’m going to be dealing with, especially in a city like London.
“But if you can look after a traumatically injured patient in London, I think you can do it pretty much anywhere.”
Dr Fenella Wrigley, Chief Medical Officer at London Ambulance Service, said: “We’re incredibly proud of all our people – from the emergency call handlers to the ambulance clinicians and specialist resources.
“They are there for Londoners and their families in those life-threatening or life-changing moments.
“It’s vital that London Ambulance Service and our NHS partners in the Major Trauma System show viewers the incredible expertise that goes into caring for people in what is often the most difficult moments of their lives.”
The series intends to showcase the rewarding nature of a career within the London Ambulance Service, and hopes to inspire viewers to consider pursuing a role within the service.
The London Major Trauma System was established in 2010 to improve care for the most critically injured patients, and now treats over 12,000 patients a year.
It has succeeded in improving survival rates for major trauma patients by 50 per cent.
Produced by the creators of the award-winning ’24 Hours in A&E’, the series is the result of 21 days of filming, with 40 cameras embedded across the entire London Major Trauma System to reveal the life-saving interventions and personal stories that inspire NHS clinicians to make crucial life or death decisions.
Those interested in pursuing a role at the London Ambulance Service can find more information on their careers page.
The service is also encouraging people to support their ‘Heart Starters’ campaign, which aims to install life-saving equipment across London.
To contribute, you can join the next London Life Hike in September.
