Ambulance service on lookout for lifesaving volunteers
West Midlands Ambulance Service is on the lookout for keen recruits to join its band of volunteer lifesavers as a community first responder.
Community first responders (CFRs) are everyday members of the public who are trained in a number of assessments and basic lifesaving techniques including the use of a defibrillator, a device used to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest.
Their availability, close proximity and local knowledge of their area are among their many assets.
CFRs will be called by the ambulance service’s control room to medical emergencies in their area while an ambulance is en-route.
They are vital in life-threatening situations, particularly in the case of a cardiac arrest and trauma when every second counts.
WMAS is recruiting CFRs in the Black Country, Staffordshire, Birmingham, Hereford and Worcester, Arden and Shropshire.
Community response manager, Cliff Medlicott, said: “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.
“To volunteer, you must be aged 18 or over, have a full driving licence and lots of enthusiasm.
“Help will be provided in obtaining the necessary equipment and no previous experience is necessary as West Midlands Ambulance Service will provide the training.
“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 going ‘live’."
To apply and find out more information, visit jobs.nhs.uk and search for job reference C9217-CFR01a-2024.
