Shock As Two NHS Ambulance Staff Die by Suicide in Weeks
Tragedy has struck the NHS ambulance service with the heartbreaking loss of two trusted staff members at Bristol’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) within weeks.
Young Dispatcher Cat and Paramedic Tomos Lost to Suicide
Just weeks ago, 20-year-old emergency medical dispatcher Catarina “Cat” Couto passed away. A beloved member of South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), Cat worked tirelessly at the Bristol EOC.
In July, 33-year-old paramedic and clinical team leader Tomos Griffiths, a devoted father of two who worked alongside Cat, also took his own life. Both were remembered as “hugely respected” and known for their “warmth and kindness,” said William Lee, Assistant Director of Operations – Emergency Operations Centres.
Staff Under Crushing Pressure at Bristol Ambulance Hub
The Bristol EOC handles 999 calls for Swindon, Wiltshire, and the West Country, dispatching emergency crews day and night. But chronic understaffing and relentless workloads create a toxic environment, with mental health support stretched to breaking point.
“They were passionate and proud to work for the Ambulance Service. Their loss will be felt by many across the Trust for a long time,” said Lee.
Campaigners Demand Government Crackdown on Ambulance Crisis
Outraged ambulance staff and supporters have called for urgent government action. The Facebook group UK Ambulance Humour slammed ministers for “ignoring a growing mental health emergency” and demanded Health Secretary Wes Streeting launch an independent inquiry into SWASFT and ambulance trusts nationwide.
“These tragic deaths show a deeper systemic crisis,” the group warned. “Ambulance crews face relentless pressure, dangerous understaffing and zero proper mental health support. Too many heroes quietly suffer and die. No more lives should be lost before urgent change is made.”
Cat’s family expressed thanks for the support she received: “Being an emergency medical dispatcher was Cat’s passion. Thank you all for the love shown to her.”
William Lee urged staff struggling with their mental health to reach out to available support services, including the Well Being team, Ambulance Staff Charity Crisis Line (0300 373 0898), and Samaritans (116 123).
