Emily Thornberry Labour MP for Islington South and Finsbury
Last Friday I had the privilege of shadowing two of North London’s finest paramedics, Rachel and Derek, on their ambulance shift. Over six hours, I travelled with them across North and Central London responding to all manner of emergency call-outs.
Our emergency services face enormous pressures at this time of year, and Friday was no exception. By 8PM, there was not one seat left in A&E. It was clear as well that too many people we saw were being forced to rely on emergency care because they’ve failed to get the care they need before their medical problems reach a crisis point.
Our paramedics are heroes. It was a real honour to see them do their jobs with such selfless and unflagging dedication, and a real inspiration to know they will be getting up tomorrow, and the day after that, and every day they are on shift, to do exactly the same thing again.
I only hope I can match their energy with my own over the coming years, in trying to ensure they get the support they need in return for all the magnificent service they give to us.
