UNISON and EMAS joint Statement regarding ECAs and ASCs

We are pleased to share positive news following our ongoing partnership working with Trade Union colleagues and in response to UNISON’s Put Our Banding Right campaign a formal pathway has now been agreed for Emergency Care Assistants (ECA) and Ambulance Support Crews (ASC).

Over the past 18 months, a comprehensive review of the ECA and ASC job descriptions has been undertaken. This review aimed to ensure that the roles accurately reflect current responsibilities, particularly in relation to the valuable work ECAs and ASCs deliver across EMAS.

The review process included a series of workshops involving clinical leaders, Trade Union representatives, People Team Representatives and feedback from frontline colleagues.

As a result, it was agreed that the two roles would be removed and a single, more clearly defined role of Emergency Ambulance Associate would be created. This new role will improve role clarity and identification when attending incidents. This is also in line with the national job profile.

A final version of the job description was submitted for evaluation in May 2026 and was confirmed as a band 4.

All existing ECAs and ASCs will be eligible to automatically transition into this new Band 4 role from 1 August 2026 provided they can demonstrate they are carrying out the full duties of the role.

Urgent Care Assistants

The Urgent Care Assistant (UCA) role will remain as a band 3 and where vacancies for Emergency Ambulance Associate roles become available UCA’s would be able to apply for the roles provided they meet the essential criteria for the role including holding the emergency driving qualification.

Further information about the how transition will be implemented will be provided shortly.