LIFE-SAVING volunteers are wanted for the first time in three years as vacancies open up in Solihull.
Ambulance emergency response charity, FastAid, together with West Midlands Ambulance, are looking for volunteers who ‘have got what it takes’ to train and become Community First Responders (CFRs).
CFRs are sent to life threatening 999 emergency calls by West Midlands Ambulance Service when they are the closest resource, along with an ambulance.
They are equipped with a defibrillator, oxygen and a first aid pack, they are responded at the same time as ambulance resources.
Due to their location will often get to a patient just before the ambulance and are therefore able to start potentially life-saving treatment.
In a typical year, FastAid CFRs respond to around 1,500 emergency calls.
New comers will join a team of doctors, nurses, paramedics as well as highly trained volunteers from all backgrounds and ages.
Terry Flower, FastAid project lead explained: “West Midlands Ambulance Service has developed a brand-new course which is now a nationally recognised qualification ‘First Responder On Scene’.
“Applicants must be 18 or over, have a good all-round education, a good level of fitness and a full UK driving license held for at least one year.
“Applicants should also have good communication skills and a willingness to learn and to help others.
“The role is highly rewarding and offers opportunities to meet new people and learn valuable lifesaving skills through the training provided by West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust.”
Members are asked to be available to respond to emergency calls for at least 20 hours per month and to help to keep the charity running.
Once qualified, FastAid will provide CFRs access to a scheme car, fully kitted with lifesaving equipment.
To apply visit www.jobs.nhs.uk/xi/vacancy/916362737
