South Western Ambulance Service Colleague Obituary, Death: Emergency Medical Dispatcher Catarina “Cat” Couto Remembered

Catarina “Cat” Couto, a 20-year-old emergency medical dispatcher with South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, is being remembered by colleagues and loved ones following her death in October 2025.

Couto worked at the Emergency Operations Centre in Bristol, where dispatchers and call handlers play an essential role in responding to emergency calls. Their work involves gathering vital information, coordinating ambulance resources and helping ensure that people in urgent need receive appropriate assistance.

Colleagues described Couto as a valued member of the team who was passionate about her role and known for her warmth and kindness. William Lee, an assistant director of operations at the trust, said her loss would be felt across the organisation for a long time. He also acknowledged the dedication she and her colleagues brought to patient care.

Her family expressed gratitude for the support shown by colleagues and said that working as an emergency medical dispatcher had been her passion. Their message reflected the importance of her work and the connections she had formed with the people around her.

The announcement of her death prompted expressions of grief among ambulance staff and members of the wider emergency-services community. The loss also renewed conversations about the emotional demands faced by people who work in emergency response roles, where difficult calls and sustained pressure can affect staff wellbeing.

The trust said support was available to colleagues through its wellbeing team and other services. These resources offer opportunities for staff to seek assistance and talk about the challenges they may face at work or in their personal lives.

Couto’s contribution to the emergency service remains part of the memories held by those who worked alongside her. Her colleagues and family continue to honour her dedication, compassion and the care she brought to a role that helps people during some of their most difficult moments.

Editorial note: Published reporting identifies Catarina “Cat” Couto as the emergency medical dispatcher who died in October 2025. The available reports reviewed do not establish a new death in October 2026.