Paramedic Transforms Ice Cream Side Hustle into £60,000 Annual Venture
In a remarkable career shift, a paramedic is trading emergency calls for frozen treats, operating a thriving ice cream business that generates an impressive £60,000 per year. James Shemmeld, a 46-year-old based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, launched this sweet side venture as a therapeutic escape from the high-pressure demands of his primary role in emergency medical services.
From Pandemic Project to Profitable Enterprise
James Shemmeld's journey into the ice cream industry began during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he sought a mental health respite after witnessing numerous patient fatalities. He invested £13,000 in a second-hand van, reviving a childhood passion for selling ice creams and 99s. What started as a modest operation has since expanded to four vans, collectively raking in substantial annual revenue.
Alongside this, Shemmeld runs a private ambulance and paramedic service from his home, which contributes an additional £200,000 to his income. He initially joined the West Midlands Ambulance Service in 2013 before founding his private medical business in 2015, which has evolved to include first aid training and event paramedical services.
Balancing Medical Duties with Frozen Delights
The ice cream business has now become Shemmeld's primary focus, operating three to four days a week, while he scales back his medical work to international rescue missions and event coverage. He describes the stark contrast between the two roles: with the ice cream van, he enjoys a stress-free environment, unlike the intense pressures of emergency medical response.
In a heartwarming twist, Shemmeld's former mentor, Paulo, gifted him the very van he worked in as a child, fueling his passion further. His commitment to affordability is notable, with ice creams priced at just £1, positioning him among the cheapest vendors nationwide.
Unexpected Medical Consultations on the Go
Interestingly, Shemmeld's medical expertise often intersects with his ice cream sales. Regular customers occasionally seek medical advice while purchasing their treats, with one instance involving a woman showing a rash. Prepared for emergencies, he keeps a defibrillator in the van and has even paused sales to assist in medical crises.
Reflecting on his dual career, Shemmeld emphasizes that the venture was never solely about profit but about enhancing his mental well-being. He continues to cherish both professions, though the ice cream business holds a special place in his heart, symbolizing a joyful departure from the rigors of paramedic life.
