Archived: Bristol Ambulance EMS Also known as Bristol Ambulance EMS

Updated 1 April 2026

Bristol Ambulance EMS provided a range of services, including frontline emergency and urgent care ambulances and crews to NHS Ambulance Trusts across the UK; non-emergency patient transport services (NEPTS), secure and detained transport; and telephony and call handling for NHS clients. They also provided medical cover for events, which we do not currently regulate.

The provider was registered with CQC in 2017 to provide the following regulated activities: transport services, triage and medical advice provided remotely; and treatment of disease, disorder or injury. There was a CQC registered manager responsible for the regulated activities provided by the service.

We carried out a responsive assessment of Bristol Ambulance EMS on 21 January 2026 following information of concern.

We assessed 2 assessment service groups at this location: patient transport services where we assessed 2 quality statements, and emergency and urgent care where we assessed 2 quality statements.

For this assessment we visited the management offices, examined staff records and spoke to staff and leaders.

Updated 13 January 2026

The assessment was carried out on 21 January 2026.

We carried out this assessment in line with our routine assessment priorities. We assessed 2 quality statements for the key question safe.

At our last assessment we rated the service outstanding. At this assessment the rating has remained outstanding.

Staff were trained to recognise and report abuse. Training covered key legal frameworks, including the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Staff were supported by an on‑call manager for safeguarding concerns, and the service worked closely with hospitals and local authorities to share learning. Policies and procedures were up-to-date and clearly outlined responsibilities, while recruitment checks, including references and DBS checks, were completed according to legal requirements, with risk assessments carried out where needed.

The service ensured there was enough skilled, experienced staff, who were supported through structured induction, supervision, appraisals and opportunities for professional development, including apprenticeships and specialist driver training. Recruitment files contained the necessary documentation in line with recruitment policy and legal requirements. Managers acted promptly to address performance issues, ensuring safe, high‑quality care that met people’s individual needs.

Updated 13 January 2026

The assessment was carried out on 21 January 2026.

We carried out this assessment in line with our routine assessment priorities. We assessed 2 quality statements for the key question safe.

At our last assessment we rated the service outstanding. At this assessment the rating has remained outstanding.

Staff were trained to recognise and report abuse. Training covered key legal frameworks, including the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Staff were supported by an on‑call manager for safeguarding concerns, and the service worked closely with hospitals and local authorities to share learning. Policies and procedures were up-to-date and clearly outlined responsibilities, while recruitment checks, including references and DBS checks, were completed according to legal requirements, with risk assessments carried out where needed.

The service ensured there was enough skilled, experienced staff, who were supported through structured induction, supervision, appraisals and opportunities for professional development, including apprenticeships and specialist driver training. Recruitment files contained the necessary documentation in line with recruitment policy and legal requirements. Managers acted promptly to address performance issues, ensuring safe, high‑quality care that met people’s individual needs.