Ambulance chief in plea for more first responders (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Ambulance chief in plea for more first responders

9:43am Monday 28th June 2010 in News By Gemma Casey

MORE lives could be saved in the North Cotswolds if local residents’ sign up become First Responders.

That is the plea from Kevin Dickens, operations support manager for Great Western Ambulance Service, who said volunteers in Stow, Bourton, Moreton-in-Marsh and surrounding villages could provide essential medical aid for the area in event of emergency.

The first responders scheme is run jointly by St John Ambulance and Great Western Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

Community First Responders, who live or work in the area, are often the first trained experts on the scene and can provide early patient care before an ambulance arrives.

"Gloucestershire is a challenging rural area," said Mr Dickens. "On average, 450 life-threatening incidents per month in Gloucestershire are attended to by CFRs.

"They are invaluable in trying to improve health care prior to an ambulance arriving. Chances of survival are far greater if a first aider is there."

Volunteers receive full training on how to deal with situations from cardiac arrest to diabetic emergencies.

Anyone interested should call 01452 858234.