South East Coast Ambulance Service sack three staff members following reports of dangerous driving
The service says those involved were dismissed for two reported incidents
Last updated 3 hours ago
South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) has dismissed three employees from their roles after incidents of unsafe driving, underscoring the organisation’s ongoing focus on road safety and its commitment to learning from past tragedy.
The dismissals followed two separate cases last year involving the use of Trust vehicles in a manner deemed unsafe. After detailed internal investigations carried out under SECAmb’s established procedures, the staff were found to have breached driving standards.
The incidents included dangerous behaviour on a motorway, as well as unsafe driving by two staff members while returning to base. Both cases were initially raised through the Trust’s Driving Standards “Speak Up!” reporting system.
The reporting tool was introduced as part of wider safety reforms following the death of student paramedic Alice Clark, who died in a fatal collision while on duty.
The system is designed to encourage staff to raise concerns about driving conduct without hesitation, helping ensure that safety issues are identified and addressed quickly.
SECAmb said the reports were acted on promptly, allowing the organisation to take swift disciplinary action where appropriate. It added that the safety of patients, staff, and the public remains its highest priority, and any behaviour that puts others at risk will not be accepted.
Since Alice Clark’s death, the Trust has expanded its focus on improving driving standards through enhanced training, clearer operational expectations, and ongoing staff engagement. Her legacy continues to play a central role in shaping these improvements.
As part of its continued learning approach, SECAmb shares safety messaging internally and has also launched the “Alice’s Legacy: Driving Change” podcast. The series features reflections from Alice’s family on her life, the impact of unsafe driving, and the importance of embedding safer practices across emergency services.