The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) visits many local schools, playgroups and youth and community groups as part of its Community Education Initiative.

The Education Initiative is designed to educate the community we serve about the role of the ambulance service. Children will experience in the non- threatening environment of their school or nursery place, many of the items of equipment which Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians use in their daily treatment of patients.

NIAS staff who volunteer to participate in the initiative are experienced in dealing with children of all ages and ensure that fun is had by all, making for a memorable day with lasting impressions of a service which is efficient and friendly.

To deliver this initiative NIAS has a number of dedicated Community Education Vehicles which are emblazoned with the stunning graphics of the Paramedi-kidz.

Who are the Paramedi-kidz?

"Paramedi-kidz" are representative of the diverse community that is Northern Ireland today.

They embody all the finest attributes of the men and women who make up the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. They place the highest of values on the attributes of integrity, caring, tolerance and dignity.

NIAS also likes to engage with community groups and often attends summer fairs and local fun days. We believe that it is important that the community we serve see us and accept us as part of itself. In this way we are confident of widespread support in any initiatives we undertake relating to hoax calls, inappropriate use of the service or violence against our staff.

Should you wish NIAS to visit you school, youth or community group, contact:

Communications Officer at NIAS HQ on 02890400999