Chris Icely served in the British Army for twenty-five years before he joined EMAS. He has shared his story with Civvy Street Magazine, including his career resettlement and role at EMAS.
Army career and resettlement
Chris joined the Royal Artillery (RA) as a Gunner in 1998. After several operations at home and abroad, he moved to Logistics. His final post before retirement in 2023 was Welfare and Wellbeing Officer for his unit.
“The last six years of my Army career were challenging. I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) towards the end of my Service. As a result, resettlement was also a struggle at first. The thought of going to careers fairs and interviews was terrifying. However, my soldier instinct was to ‘fight through’. Fortunately, my move from Artillery to Logistics added to my transferable skills and I was able to see a clear future for myself as a civilian.”
“When considering different resettlement opportunities, my priority was my family. My wife had followed me around the world for twenty-six years, and so it was my turn to support her to progress her career. I knew I needed a job with a good work-life balance.”
Chris joined EMAS in 2023. An Estates and Facilities Officer, he supports facility management and security at over 70 ambulance stations and offices across the region.
“The skills and values I’ve brought with me from the Army – including leadership, teamwork and compassion – are welcomed in my job, and my work-life balance and mental health have both improved.
I would urge all military personnel who are close to resettlement to consider a career in the ambulance service – we have a lot to offer the NHS.
My military career was a huge part of my life. It opened my eyes to the importance of compassion and the power of conversations. Now as a civilian I’m proud to be part of Team EMAS, supporting a service that helps people in need.”
