CReD 

Identifying the knowledge gaps of paramedics managing patients with mental health issues (Paramind study)

The demand for mental health support in England has risen sharply in recent years, exceeding the capacity of available services. Approximately 1.2 million people are currently on NHS community mental health waiting lists, placing increased strain on paramedics, who now spend an estimated 1.8 million hours annually responding to mental health-related calls. As frontline responders, paramedics play a critical role in providing urgent care to individuals experiencing mental health difficulties. However, existing research highlights that paramedics tend to feel frustration, uncertainty, and lack of confidence when managing patients with mental health presentations. Despite this, there is currently no standardised mental health education or training requirement for paramedics in England, and limited research has explored the specific knowledge gaps that hinder their ability to provide effective care. This study aims to identify and assess the knowledge gaps and educational needs of paramedics regarding mental health care. Findings will inform the development of targeted educational initiatives, equipping paramedics with the necessary skills to improve patient outcomes and bridge gaps in pre-hospital mental health care.

What are the knowledge gaps of paramedics managing patients with mental health issues? With this study we aim to: A) To conduct a review of pre-registration, undergraduate BSc paramedic curricula throughout England, to determine content in relation to mental health care provision and identify potential educational gaps (Phase 1a). B) To conduct a review of post-registration ambulance service delivered training provision (via the 11 ambulance services in England), to determine content in relation to mental health care provision and identify potential educational gaps (Phase 1b). C) To evaluate mental health care provision-related knowledge gaps amongst the current paramedic workforce (Phase 2).

Mixed methods research

2025-04-09

2026-03-31

NIHR ARC Wessex

United Kingdom

francesca.zecchinato@soton.ac.uk

Dr Francesca Zecchinato; Dr Ursula Rolfe; Dr Natasha Campling;