Could you spare a few hours to potentially save a life ? West Midlands Ambulance Service is recruiting for a new band of volunteers to serve as Community First Responders (CFRs).
The ambulance service will provide training and they will assist with emergency 999 calls in both urban and rural areas, without pay. They are not a substitute for ambulance staff but will provide life-saving skills and techniques.
Their availability, close proximity and knowledge of their area are among their many valuable assets. CFRs are vital in life-threatening situations such as a cardiac arrest and trauma when every second counts.
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Community Response Manager, Cliff Medlicott, said: “We’re recruiting for CFRs at multiple locations across the region and are looking for kind, compassionate people who are committed to helping others in their local community. Maybe you’ve added ‘volunteering’ to your list of New Year’s Resolutions? If so, this position could not be more perfect.
“Volunteers come from all walks of life. When they make themselves available to respond they can continue to go about their daily lives, but if an emergency call is received by the ambulance service within a five-mile radius, they are sent and always backed-up by an emergency ambulance service vehicle.
West Midlands Ambulance Service stock photo
(Image: West Midlands Ambulance Service)
“To volunteer, you must be aged 18 or over, have a full driving licence and lots of enthusiasm for your local community and saving lives.
Applications close on Friday 31 st January 2025.
“Help will be provided in obtaining the necessary equipment and no previous experience is necessary as training will be provided by West Midlands Ambulance Service.
“Successful applicants will attend a nationally recognised training course covering Basic Life Support and Defibrillation, Medical Emergencies, Traumatic Emergencies and Preparing for Active Duty. They will then train alongside ambulance crews before starting in their role and being able to ‘respond’”.