Concerns have been raised in Powys after it was confirmed that no newly qualified paramedics will be recruited in Wales this year, leaving graduates unsure about their next steps.

Reform UK councillor Iain McIntosh, who represents Yscir with Honddu Isaf and Llanddew, said the situation raises serious questions about workforce planning and the use of public money.

“I have been contacted directly by paramedic students in this constituency who have raised serious concerns about workforce planning and employment opportunities. They have told me that after three years of study and completing placements with the Welsh Ambulance Service, their entire cohort has been left without newly qualified paramedic roles,” he said.

“This is deeply concerning. Around £50,000 of public funding is invested in training each paramedic, amounting to approximately £2.5 million for a single cohort, yet there appear to be no positions available for them at the end of their training.

“At a time when ambulance services are under significant pressure, it is difficult to understand how this situation has been allowed to arise. It raises serious questions about workforce planning, the use of public money, and the long-term sustainability of frontline services.”

The Welsh Ambulance Service has confirmed the recruitment freeze.

Carl Kneeshaw, Director of People, said: “Like many NHS organisations, we are navigating a difficult financial and operational landscape, which means that decisions about recruitment have to be based on a range of factors, including current staffing levels, service demand, workforce skill mix and affordability.

“Regrettably, as things stand, we are not in a position to employ newly qualified paramedics this year. We know this will be deeply disappointing for those hoping to start their careers with us, especially after the time, effort and commitment they have invested in their training, but we are committed to supporting them as they consider their next steps. For graduates who want to build a career with the Welsh Ambulance Service, we would encourage them to explore other opportunities with us, including Emergency Medical Technician roles, which we expect to recruit to throughout 2026, and which offer valuable frontline experience, ongoing development and a potential route into future paramedic opportunities.”

Graduates are also being encouraged to explore roles with other ambulance services or elsewhere in the health and social care sector.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We are committed to ensuring our investment in NHS education and training is supported by meaningful employment opportunities.

"We are working closely with the Welsh Ambulance Services Trust (WAST), HEIW and universities to address these challenges and support graduates."

Cllr McIntosh, who is also a Senedd candidate for Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd, said the situation was unfair both for students and for the public relying on ambulance services.

“Patients deserve a system that works, and staff deserve proper support and clear career pathways,” he said.

“Reform UK is clear that the Welsh NHS must be reformed to focus on frontline delivery, reduce inefficiencies and ensure that workforce planning is aligned with the needs of patients across Wales.”