- Ambulance service
Archived: Bristol Ambulance EMS Also known as Bristol Ambulance EMS
Assessment report published 1 April 2026
Contents
Ratings - Emergency and urgent care
Our view of the service
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.
People's experience of this service
This was a responsive assessment following information of concern. We did not gather the experiences of people who used the service as part of this assessment.