Month: January 2014

Friday 31^st January 2014 – 5.15pm – Claire Brown.

A boy has been seriously injured in a road traffic collision in Telford this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision between a car and a pedestrian in Station Road, Madeley at around 3.30pm today (Friday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find an eleven-year-old boy who had been involved in a collision with a car.

“Upon assessment, crews and the doctor found the young boy had sustained a serious head injury and a suspected fractured arm. Crews administered pain relief to stabilise his condition before they worked to immobilise him with a neck collar and spinal board.

“The boy was then conveyed by land ambulance on blue lights to Birmingham Children’s Hospital; the doctor travelled in the ambulance to hospital to continue treatment en route.

“The driver of the car, a woman, was assessed by ambulance staff but did not require hospital treatment.”

 

ENDS

 

Friday 31^st January 2014 – 5.00pm – Claire Brown.

A man is in a critical condition following a road traffic collision in Rugby this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A45 Coventry bound near to the M45 junction shortly before 3.30pm this afternoon (Friday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer and a responder paramedic from a neighbouring ambulance service attended the scene. The aircrew and doctor from the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance base also responded to the incident by car.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “A patient transport services crew came across a car which had left the carriageway and collided with a tree. The crew stopped to render aid and called the Trust’s control room to request help.

“The driver and single occupant of the car, a man, was out of the vehicle. The man sustained a serious head injury together with pelvic and leg injuries.

“Ambulance crews and the medic worked as a team to administer emergency treatment at the roadside. Due to the man’s injuries, the doctor anaesthetised him to help stabilise his condition. He was then immobilised with a neck collar, spinal board and pelvic splint before being taken by land ambulance on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“His condition was described as critical.”

 

Ends

Friday 31st January 2014 – 8am – Steve Parry.

A motorist has been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision in Smethwick earlier this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the High Street, Smethwick shortly before 4.30am.

An ambulance, together with a paramedic officer and the MERIT trauma team attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a single vehicle had overturned.

“A man believed to be in his twenties was treated for serious head injuries. He was immobilised with use of a neck collar and spinal board before being transferred to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

End

Wednesday 29th January 2014 – 8.30pm – Steve Parry

Three people have been taken to hospital following a road traffic incident in Sheldon, Birmingham this evening.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Sheldon Heath Road just before 6pm.

Three ambulances and a paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews responded to a road traffic collision involving two vehicles.

“A man in his fifties was trapped for ninety minutes before being released. He was treated for chest, pelvic and leg pain. the man was immobilised with the use of a neck collar and spinal board together with a pelvic splinter before being taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

“The driver of one of the vehicles involved, a man in his thirties, was assessed for head, wrist and knee pain before being conveyed to City Hospital.

“A third man in his fifties was treated for a knee laceration and taken to Hartlands Hospital for assessment and treatment.”

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Wednesday 29th January 2014 – 5.15pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A woman has been airlifted to hospital following a road traffic collision in Staffordshire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Lodge Hill, Tutbury in Burton on Trent at approximately 2.30pm today.

Two ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, two ambulance officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a car and a van that had been in collision.

“The driver of the car, a 60 year old woman, was trapped in the vehicle for a period of time before being extricated from the car, with the assistance of the fire service. Ambulance crews treated the woman for lower leg and hip injuries. The casualty was given pain relief and fully immobilised before being airlifted to Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham for further assessment and treatment.

“Three men, who had been travelling in the van at the time of the incident, were assessed at the scene but did not require any further hospital treatment.”

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Wednesday 29th January 2014 – 11.50am – Suzie Fothergill.

A volunteer community first responder from Staffordshire has recently attended to his 1,000th incident on behalf of West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Over the last six and a half years the Madeley community first responder (CFR) group has responded to 1,641 incidents and have volunteered a massive 21,450 hours of cover. One of the responders from the scheme hit a tremendous milestone this month after attending his 1,000th incident.

Dave Frost, who is also the scheme’s co-ordinator, has been responding for just over six years and has given up 13,000 hours of his own time to help assist the ambulance service and to help hundreds of people within his local community.

CFRs are trained by the ambulance service to a nationally recognised level and maybe requested to attend to medical emergencies such as cardiac arrests, chest pain, diabetic emergencies, strokes and breathing problems.

Community First Responders can quickly help reach those people suffering from medical emergencies in the remote rural communities, prior to the arrival of an ambulance. In many illnesses or injuries the first few minutes are critical and simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability.

All CFR schemes are entirely self-funded through charitable donations. These funds are put towards responder kits, which include automated external defibrillators, oxygen and masks and bandages to name just a few.

Talking about his role as a CFR Dave said: “My youngest daughter used to suffer very badly from Asthma attacks. Due to us living in a rural location it could sometimes take a little while for emergency help to reach us when we needed it and we would panic. A friend of mind mentioned the local responder scheme and suggested it might be worth my while finding out more about it.

“I’d always had a general knowledge of first aid through the training I’d undertaken at work, so I decided I would take the next step and join the scheme. I haven’t looked back since, I love helping the local community and I can be found responding most weekends.

“The scheme has a close working relationship with Paramedics and other emergency staff from the ambulance service. The information and knowledge they have passed on to each and every one of the team over the years is invaluable and we are extremely grateful for that.”

Victoria Tufail, WMAS Community First Response Manager said: “This milestone is a massive achievement for Dave and the scheme, he and the team have undoubtedly gone above and beyond to help their local community.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Dave, along with all the CFRs within the region, for giving up their own time to help others. CFRs are vital in rural communities and it is without doubt that thanks to their efforts, dedication and actions, lives have been saved.”

The Madeley scheme are always on the lookout for new responders; if you live in the area and are interested in finding out more please contact Dave via 07887 807 854.

If you would like more information about becoming a CFR elsewhere with Staffordshire or the wider West Midlands Region please visit: http://www.wmas.nhs.uk/Pages/CFRs.aspx

To become a CFR volunteer, you should be:
• Aged between 18 – 70
• Have a current clean driving licence
• Be physically fit
• Be able to provide time when you can to attend incidents whether at home or work
• Have a caring nature and be willing to help raise the profile of the schemes in local areas

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Pictured: Victoria Tufail (WMAS) with Dave Frost and the Madeley responders, with Mascot Theo.     

Tuesday 28th January 2014 – 5pm – Steve Parry.

Three men have had a lucky escape after their car collided with trees near Coombe Abbey earlier today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Coventry Road, Binley, shortly before 2.10pm.

Two ambulances and a paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Three men in their twenties escaped with minor injuries after their vehicle left the road and collided with trees.

“Two patients were immobilised with the use of a neck collar and spinal board. A third patient was also treated at the scene for back pain before being conveyed to the University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire for further assessment and treatment.”

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Tuesday 28^th January 2014 – 9.00am – Claire Brown.

A control room worker is swapping shift work for a sand walk in November when she embarks on a Sahara Desert trek to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Leanne Williams, a 999 Call Assessor within the Trust’s Control Room in Brierley Hill, is coming to terms with the loss of a close friend and is determined to do something positive in his memory.

Her friend, Chris Binnington, sadly died shortly before his 44^th birthday on 2^nd December and leaves behind a wife and children.

Leanne, a mum of two from Dudley, has signed herself and Chris’s wife Fleur, up to take part in a gruelling seven-day trek across the Sahara Desert with Marie Curie in November 2014.

Leanne said: “Chris asked before he passed that we raise as much money as possible for Cancer charities and so that is what I intend to do in his memory.

“It is a very difficult time for his family and, despite the sadness his death has caused, we must turn this into something positive. I have already started my fundraising and it is going really well but, we need to raise a whole lot more!

“If you’re able to spare some money to donate and support my trek, please visit www.justgiving.com/leanne-fleur-4chris. If you’re a business keen to provide corporate sponsorship, I’d really like to hear from you.”

ENDS

 

Notes to Editors:

Please contact the Press Office on 01384 246 496 if you are a business interested in helping Leanne with sponsorship.

Monday 27th January 2014 – 6.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

A horse rider has been airlifted for the third time after coming off his not so trusty steed in Worcestershire.

The incident took place this morning in a field near to the Severn Trent Water Works in Common Lane, Cleobury Mortimer.

A rapid response vehicle was initially sent but the paramedic requested an air ambulance after starting to treat the patient at the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The initial call came in at around 11.30am on Monday morning to reports of a man in his 60’s who had fallen from a horse.

“When the paramedic arrived they discovered the man sitting in a puddle in a muddy field.

“It appeared that he had landed on his head as his helmet had a dent in it.

“The man was immobilised as the initial patient survey suggested a potential back injury. Given the weather and the fact that he was wet, cold also became an issue and he was given a heat blanket.

“After treatment at the scene he was airlifted to the Major Trauma Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham by the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford.

“This is the third time the man has been airlifted to hospital after incidents involving a horse.”

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Bad news; flu season is far from over. Influenza outbreaks are unpredictable and can occur as late as May. New data from the Government today suggests that rates of flu are rising currently.

As a Trust, we are continuing to encourage our staff to get the jab because we know it protects them, their patients and their family. It can protect you too.

Dr Andy Carson has been practicing as a GP for many years and has seen the way the flu has affected his patients. He said: “There is a big difference between your average cold and a dose of the flu.

“It’s definitely not too late to get vaccinated. It takes about two weeks after getting the jab for antibodies to develop in the body that provide protection against the flu. Even if you get it next week, you’ll have protection for the best part of four months. If you’ve had it, you’ll know it is not something to have more than once.

If you get the flu, what will it be like?

Expect a sudden high temperature, more than 38 degrees Celsius and a sudden cough. Other symptoms can include headache, feeling cold and shivery, aching muscles, limb or joint pain, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, loss of appetite and diarrhoea or stomach upset.

Dr Carson said: “The best thing you can do is rest, drink plenty of fluids and help ease sore throats with cough lozenges, mixtures or sprays. And if you are buying over the counter cold remedies, make sure you check with the pharmacist whether any cold or flu remedies can be used with medication you’re already taking.”

“If you are otherwise fit and healthy, there is usually no need to visit your GP with flu-like symptoms, but flu can be more serious for some groups of people, those who are over 65, are pregnant, have a long term medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease or a neurological disease or people who have a weakened immune system (the body’s natural defence against infection and illness) and antiviral medication may need to be prescribed.”

The important things to remember are:
· It isn’t too late to have a free flu jab at your GP surgery if you are over 65; have an underlying health condition; are pregnant or care for someone that has an underlying health condition (check with your GP surgery)

· Don’t expect antibiotics. They won’t work. Colds and flu are caused by viruses and antibiotics only work on bacterial infections

· Keep paracetamol or ibuprofen-based pain and fever treatment or cold remedies in the house. They will help with the symptoms of both colds and flu

· Sneeze into a tissue and put it straight in the bin – don’t carry it around to reuse over and over again!

· Have good hand hygiene – always wash hands with soap and water, particularly after sneezing and blowing your nose. Take the time to dry them properly as wet hands harbour and spread germs

· Keep surfaces clean, in your kitchen, on your desk.

Sunday 26^th January 2014 – 10.30pm – Claire Brown.

Four adults and a toddler received treatment from ambulance crews following a two car road traffic collision in Dudley this evening.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of Peartree Lane and Hulbert Drive in Dudley shortly after 7.30pm (Sunday). Three ambulances, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer and a MERIT trauma doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a Peugeot and a Citroen which had been involved in a collision. The Citroen also ended up colliding with a wall and a set of gates. All five occupants were out of their vehicles.

“The driver of the Peugeot, a woman in her 20s, suffered chest pain in the collision. The woman along with a toddler, who suffered a minor head injury, were both taken to Russells Hall Hospital.

“The front seat passenger, a man in his 20s, sustained a suspected fractured pelvis. Crews and the medic immobilised him with a neck collar, spinal board and pelvic splint before conveying him to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“The driver and passenger from the Citroen, both men in their early 20s, suffered minor injuries and were checked over by ambulance staff. The passenger was collared and boarded as a precaution and both were taken to Russells Hall Hospital.”

 

ENDS

Sunday 26^th January 2014 – 11.15am – Claire Brown.

A man has been seriously injured in a road traffic collision in Coventry last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received a 999 call to reports of a pedestrian who had been in collision with a taxi on Lockhurst Lane in Coventry just after 10.00pm yesterday evening (Saturday). A paramedic area support officer and an ambulance attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The pedestrian, a man believed to be in his 30s, had reportedly collided with a taxi before hitting his head on the kerb.

“The man sustained a serious head injury. The ambulance crew and paramedic worked as a team to administer emergency treatment at the scene before alerting the man to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, a major trauma centre, for further treatment.”

 

ENDS

Saturday 25^th January 2014 – 9.15pm – Claire Brown.

An elderly man and his two grandsons have had a miraculous escape after a freak car accident in Newcastle-under-Lyme this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Seabridge Lane in Newcastle-under-Lyme at around 5.30pm earlier today (Saturday). Two ambulances and a paramedic area support officer attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When the emergency services arrived they found a car which had reportedly left the road, cleared a six foot wall and clipped the side of a house before landing precariously on top of a parked car.

“Miraculously the three occupants, an elderly man and his two grandsons, believed to be in their late teens, were out of the car and had sustained no serious injuries.

“The elderly man, the driver of the car, was given a full assessment by crews and immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board due to the mechanism of the crash. One of the grandsons sustained shoulder pain. All three were taken to University Hospital North Staffordshire as a precaution.

“Given the nature of the crash, it was miraculous that no one was more seriously or even fatally injured.”

 

ENDS

Saturday 25^th January 2014 – 4.00pm – Claire Brown.

A man has been airlifted to hospital after a car rolled off a driveway and ran over his leg.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a property off Roman Road in Norton, Stourbridge shortly before 11.45am this morning (Saturday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The car reportedly rolled off a driveway and collided with the man, rolling over his leg.

“The man, believed to be in his 30s, sustained a significant lower leg injury which was bleeding heavily.

“Ambulance crews worked as a team to administer pain relief to the man whilst applying pressure to the wound to stem the bleeding. They then used specialised dressings to bandage the wound to stop the bleeding before immobilising his leg. The man was then placed into a scoop stretcher before being airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for further emergency treatment.”

 

ENDS

 

Friday 24^th January 2014 – 10.45pm – Claire Brown.

A two car crash has left five people injured in Telford this evening.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to near Grove Inn on Bluebell Road in Walcot shortly before 7.15pm (Friday). Five ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and two MERIT trauma doctors attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find two cars, with a total of six occupants, which had been involved in a serious collision.

“A front seat passenger sustained facial injuries and a hand injury.

“A rear seat passenger, a 15 year old girl, sustained a collar bone injury and was administered pain relief by crews.

“The driver of one car, a 44 year old man, sustained a fractured wrist and neck pain. He was given pain relief before being immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board. All three patients were taken by land ambulances to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.

“Two further patients, the second driver and a third passenger, suffered minor injuries and were taken to Princess Royal Hospital. The sixth occupant, a man, was uninjured and did not require hospital treatment.”

 

Ends

 

Notes to Editors:

I am afraid I cannot provide more specific details about the patients (e.g. age and sex) or the number of occupants in each car.

Friday 24^th January 2014 – 3.00pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A group of Paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service are gearing up to cycle the length of the country to raise money for Charity, Pilgrim Bandits.

Dave Bentley (Hazardous Area Response Team Paramedic) and Neil Weaver (Wolverhampton Paramedic), together with the support crew of Neil Baars and Olly Ayles are undertaking the challenge to cycle from John O’Groats to Lands Ends in just seven days.

The mammoth cycle is set to take place in May and the team hope to raise as much money as possible for Pilgrim Bandits, a charity which supports injured armed forces members.

Talking about the challenge Dave said: “This charity is very close to my heart as it has helped my close friend, Ben Parkinson, who was severely injured during a tour of Afghanistan 2006, in which I served alongside him. We hope to raise as much money as possible to ensure the Charity can continue with their good work.”

The duo are currently training hard in preparation for the cycle ahead and as well as their day-to-day training, they will be taking part in a number of events, including the Run and Ride challenge over Cannock Chase this Sunday.

Bridgetown cycles are helping to give the team a push start providing support in the way of spares, bike maintenance courses and servicing the bikes. Lynne Taylor from the shop, who holds the ladies record for the route, has also been providing the team with some top tips and plans on joining them for a leg of the cycle.

Fundraising efforts have already begun and most recently the cycling paramedics could be seen at ASDA in Cannock (Tuesday 21^st January) along with Ben Parkinson and a number of work colleagues where they managed to raise £500.

Neil Weaver said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us so far. Everyone has been hugely generous and we are extremely grateful.”

The team’s progress can be followed on facebook (999 Jogle May 2014) and Twitter (@jogledave).

If you would like to make a donation towards the cause please visit www.justgiving.com/Dave-Bentley. Alternatively donations can also be made via text message, by sending DBLB85 followed by your donation e.g. £1 to 70070.

For more information about the charity, visit www.pilgrimbandits.org

Ends

Notes to Editors:

Pictured (top):  The team with staff from Bridgetown Cycles and (below) fundraising at Asda in Cannock.

 

 

Friday 24th January 2014 – 3pm – Chris Kowalik.

A woman driver in Warwickshire was just inches from being impaled by a wooden fencepost that went through her windscreen.

Her car left the A46 in Warwick and collided with a wooden fence and a barbed wire fence before coming to rest in a hedge.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the scene shortly after 10.50am today.

A senior paramedic officer in a rapid response vehicle, a paramedic area support officer in a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance crew attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When crews arrived the woman who is in her twenties was already out of the car uninjured.

“A fencepost had pierced through the windscreen and, fortunately for the driver, it had brushed along the inside of the driver’s door, missing her.

“Had it been a few inches across, the woman would have been impaled. She was very lucky.

“After a check-up from crews at the scene, she was taken home by her father.”

Ends

Friday 24^th January 2014 – 1.25pm – Claire Brown.

A man has died in a road traffic collision in Walsall Wood this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision involving a car and a pedestrian in High Street at around 5.50am earlier this morning (Friday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer and two MERIT trauma doctors were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews found a pedestrian and a car which had been involved in a collision.

“The pedestrian, a man, sustained serious injuries and was in cardiac arrest. Crews and the medics worked as a team to commence advanced life support at the roadside. Sadly, despite their best efforts, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead.

“No one else was injured in the incident.

“The road remained closed for several hours whilst police collision investigators examined the scene.”

ENDS

Friday 24^th January 2014 – 9.00am – Claire Brown.

A man has died following a two car crash in Coventry last night.

One of the Trust’s ambulances came across a two car road traffic collision on Ansty Road, near the junction of Hocking Road, shortly after 10.20pm yesterday evening and called for emergency back-up. A further two ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and two MERIT trauma doctors attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “When the ambulance crew stopped to help, they found two cars which had been involved in a collision.

“The driver of one car, a man, was seriously injured. Ambulance crews administered advanced emergency treatment at the scene before conveying the man by ambulance on blue lights to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire. Sadly, despite the best efforts of ambulance crews and hospital medics, nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at hospital.

“The passenger from the same car, a woman, and the driver of the second car, a man, both sustained minor injuries. Both were taken to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire as a precaution.”

 

ENDS

Thursday 23^rd January 2014 – 5.20pm – Claire Brown.

A woman has been airlifted to a major trauma centre after falling from a 17-hand horse in Warwickshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to stables off the A422 in Oxhill, Warwick, shortly after 2.00pm this afternoon (Thursday). An ambulance, an emergency care practitioner, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham and two doctors and a paramedic officer from the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance base, who responded in a car, were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The woman, believed to be in her 40s, had reportedly fallen from the 17-hand horse she was riding and was initially knocked unconscious.

“When crews arrived, the woman had regained consciousness but had sustained an injury to her arm and was in pain. The woman was administered pain relief to stabilise her condition whilst medics carried out a full assessment.

“The woman was fully immobilised as a precaution before being airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, a major trauma centre, for further assessment and treatment.”

 

Ends

Thursday 23rd January 2014 – 4.45pm – Murray MacGregor.

Ambulance bosses say they are delighted with the response to an advert to become a frontline member of staff.

Over 1,100 people applied to become student paramedics with West Midlands Ambulance Service. The Trust is currently recruiting people to fill 120 places.

Recruitment Advisor, Louise Harris, said: “This is a fantastic response. We thought it would be a popular role, but to get so much interest is tremendous as it means we will be able to ensure we have the highest quality of candidates.

“We have been pleasantly surprised by the wide range of people who have applied. They come from all sections of our area and have a wide range of backgrounds and communities which is really positive.

“Clearly with so many applications to go through we will be a little busy for a while, but will let candidates know as soon as possible; please bear with us. The assessments are due to start from week beginning 3rd February.

“We are currently planning to run four courses of 30 over the coming months.

“For those that are successful, it is a really good programme which is both challenging and rewarding.

“As a Trust, we are committed to ensuring that we have a paramedic on every vehicle. We already have one of the highest rates of paramedics in the country but this programme will take us one step closer to that vision.”

Ends

Wednesday 22^nd January 2014 – 7.15pm – Claire Brown.

A woman has received emergency treatment by ambulance staff before being airlifted to hospital following a collision on the M5 in Worcestershire this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the southbound carriageway of the M5, between junctions 7 and 8, shortly after 3.30pm today (Wednesday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer, the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham and a second helicopter from Cosford with a MERIT trauma doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a lorry and a car which had been involved in a significant collision. A woman, believed to be in her 50s and the driver of the car, sustained multiple fractures to her legs together with suspected pelvic injuries.

“Ambulance crews and the doctor administered pain relief to the woman to help stabilise her condition before carefully immobilising her with a neck collar, spinal board, a pelvic splint and leg splints.

“The woman was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham for specialist treatment.

“The motorway was closed in both directions for a time to allow both air ambulances to land on the carriageways.”

 

Ends

 

 

 

Wednesday 22nd January 2014 – 4.50pm – Suzie Fothergill.

Codsall Ex-Service Sports Club recently presented a cheque for £2,500 to their local community responder group; South Staffordshire First Responders (SSFR).

The donation was made following a presentation delivered to the club by scheme responders Louise Davies and Matt Jevons.

Community First Responders (CFRs) are groups of volunteers trained to a nationally recognised level by West Midlands Ambulance Service and respond to 999 calls in their local communities. They can be vital in reaching those people suffering from medical emergencies fast, particularly in remote rural communities, prior to the arrival of an ambulance.

In many illnesses or injuries the first few minutes are critical and simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability. CFR’s maybe requested to attend to medical emergencies such as cardiac arrests, diabetic emergencies, strokes, falls, and breathing problems.

The South Staffordshire First Responders (SSFR) charity provides trained volunteers in Codsall, Perton, Pattingham, Wombourne, Kinver and surrounding villages.

Matt Jevons, Founding Trustee of SSFR said: “This is a fantastic donation to receive and is much more than we originally thought it might be. The money donated to us will go towards funding a new responder kit, which includes a defibrillator, oxygen and masks, bandages, a pulse oximeter, suction equipment, blood pressure monitoring kits amongst other vital equipment.”

Derek Buxton, President of the Ex-Service Sports Club said: “Although our members have seen the first responders in the village, we were not aware of the impact they can have and indeed that they all give their time voluntarily. We invited Louise and Matt to present to our committee and were all amazed at their dedication. They are a very worthy group to receive this donation.”

The group is currently looking for new recruits, if you are interested in becoming a Community First Responder please visit http://www.wmas.nhs.uk/Pages/CFRs.aspx or email cfradmin@wmas.nhs.uk

Ends

Note(s) to Editors:
Pictured (L-R) Dennis Potts, Doug McDonald, Matt Jevons (SSFR Trustee) receiving cheque of £2,500 from President Derek Buxton and Bryan Fowler.

Tuesday 21^st January 2014 – 4.30pm – Claire Brown.

A 16-strong group of volunteer life-savers have been given the keys to not one, but two brand new cars to help respond to 999 calls in Solihull.

FastAid Community First Responders (CFRs) are everyday members of the public trained by West Midlands Ambulance Service in lifesaving techniques to a nationally recognised level. They carry a variety of equipment including a defibrillator (a device used to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest), oxygen and First Aid dressings and bandages.

Carstins are supporting the Balsall Common based CFRs with a SsangYong Korando; the group’s very first dedicated car. Guest Motors have given the Knowle and Dorridge CFRs a Fiat Panda; the eighth car the dealership has provided.

The Mayor of Solihull and Meriden MP Caroline Spellman met with Fastaid CFRs last week (Friday 17^th January) to officially hand over the car keys for their new sets of wheels on behalf of the two car dealerships.

Sam Jackson, Chairman of FastAid Solihull, explained just how important the two new cars are: “Guest Motors has been sponsoring a car for Knowle and Dorridge for some years now and we are very appreciative for their continuing support.  FastAid also welcomes the new involvement of Carstins. We are immensely grateful to both companies and proud of both of these new, fully liveried responder cars which are a fantastic asset”.

Councillor Joe Tildesley Mayor of Solihull, said: “This shows amazing cooperation between car dealerships and Fastaid and is a wonderful initiative. Within the last 12 months, Fastaid have been to more than 1,000 patients and I’m sure many lives have been saved. Long may this fantastic asset to Solihull continue.”

Mark Lines, General Manager for Guest Motors, said: “This is the eighth car we have provided to Fastaid and we are as proud as ever to support the charity. The tough four wheel drive Fiat Panda seemed the ideal vehicle, particularly if we see ice and snow this winter.”

Elliott Cartwright, Dealer Principal of Carstins in Balsall Common, said: “We are very proud to be associated with Fastaid and support this extremely worthwhile cause by providing the use of a new special edition Korando throughout 2014. I am sure this vehicle will provide exceptional service to assist with their emergency responses.”

Andy Jeynes, the Trust’s Community Response Manager for Birmingham and Solihull, said: “Not only is the dedication and hard work of the CFRs vital in making Fastaid the success it is, but it’s also thanks to the support of local businesses and residents alike.”

 

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

Photograph (left to right back): Carstins Dealer Principal Elliott Cartwright, Guest Motors Mark Lines, MP Caroline Spellman, Councillor David Bell, CFR Jeff Way, CFR Ben East, CFR Terry Flower, Community Response Manager Andy Jeynes, CFR Linda Atherton and Alice Hawkins. (front) Councillor Joe Tildesley Mayor of Solihull and Fastaid Chairman Sam Jackson.

 

Tuesday 21^st January 2014 – 3.45pm – John Hawker.

A pedestrian had been seriously injured following an incident in Coventry this lunch time.

The incident occurred on Lynchgate Road, Canley at around 12.40pm.  An ambulance, a paramedic officer and the crew of the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance attended in a rapid response vehicle.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a car and a pedestrian that had been in a serious collision.

“The pedestrian, a woman believed to be around 20 years old suffered serious head injuries.  She received emergency treatment and due to her condition was anaesthetised by the Doctor at the scene.

“The woman was transferred by ambulance to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment. 

“Unfortunately, the woman’s condition was described as critical.”

Ends.

Notes to editors: 

We have no further details on this incident.

 

Tuesday 21st January 2014 – 6.40am – Murray MacGregor.

A young man has escaped serious injury after a crash in Warwickshire, despite the roof of his car ‘being opened like a tin can’.

The incident happened at about 10.30pm on Monday evening on the A4091 near the Belfry, Bodymoor Heath in North Warwickshire.

An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “When crews arrived they found a car that had left the road and gone over a fence and into a field.

“There was significant damage to vehicle with the roof pushed down into the passenger compartment. Worse, the front of the roof had been opened up ‘like a tin can’.

“Amazingly, the 23 year old man driving had managed to get himself out of the wreckage.

“The crew treated him for possible loss of consciousness and a pelvic injury. He was immobilised and had a pelvic splint attached before he was taken to the Major Trauma Centre at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire.

“Crews described him as ‘a very lucky man’ not to have been seriously injured or worse.”

Ends

Monday 20th January 2014 – 10.35pm – Murray MacGregor.

A teenage girl has suffered critical injuries after she was in collision with a car in Solihull.

The collision happened at about 6.30pm on Monday evening in Dalecote Avenue.

A rapid response vehicle, an ambulance, a paramedic officer and BASICS Emergency Doctor were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival crews found the teenage girl in a semi-conscious state. It was not clear what had happened.

“Unfortunately, she had suffered a significant head injury.

“Crews treated her at the scene before she was taken on blue lights to Birmingham Children’s Hospital with the doctor travelling with the patient. On arrival she was anaesthetised.

“Her condition when she arrived at hospital was described as grave.

“The man driving the car was uninjured.”

Ends

Monday 20^th January 2014 – 2pm – Chris Kowalik.

Two men have been injured in a road traffic collision in Warwickshire.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Blackwell Bushes between Darlingscott and Ilmington shortly before 12.05pm today.

An advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, two ambulance crews and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “One of the drivers, a man in his seventies, had chest injuries. He was treated at the scene and given pain relief before being flown to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

“A man who was the driver of the other car involved in the collision had minor injuries and was taken by land ambulance to Warwick Hospital.”

Ends

Sunday 19th January 2014 – 7.05pm – John Hawker.

A footballer suffered serious leg injuries during a match in Stoke-on-Trent, this morning.

The incident occurred at pitches in Draycott Old Road, Draycott at around 10.45am.  A paramedic in a rapid response vehicle and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Crews arrived to find a man believed to be 23 years old with a serious left leg injury.  He received emergency treatment at the scene from paramedics including pain relief, and his injured leg was immobilised using a leg splint.

“The air ambulance landed on the pitches nearby and once the man’s condition was stabilised, he was airlifted to University Hospital North Staffordshire major trauma unit for further emergency treatment.”

Ends.

Notes to editors: 

We have no further details on this incident.

Thursday 16th January 2014 –4.45pm – Suzie Fothergill.

What could be a better way to start the New Year than by learning how to save a life!

West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) has many initiatives running within the community to ensure that help can be on hand as quickly as possible.

If you have never undertaken a first aid course then why not try a free HeartStart course. The two hour British Heart Foundation course is suitable for anyone 10 years of age and up. During the session participants will learn a number of lifesaving and first aid techniques including CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), the management of severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, chocking and chest pain.

Approximately 17,000 people within Staffordshire have already been trained in the lifesaving course, which has been running since April 2012. The Trust aims to have trained 60,000 people in Staffordshire alone by April 2017 and is always on the lookout for new partakers.

If you live in a rural location and feel like doing a little bit more for your local community then why not find out more about becoming about being a Community First Responder (CFR)*.

CFRs are groups of volunteers that respond to emergencies on behalf of West Midlands Ambulance Service, prior to the arrival of an ambulance. CFRs are trained by the Ambulance Service to a nationally recognised level and help to reach those people suffering from medical emergencies in the remote rural communities fast. In many illnesses or injuries the first few minutes are critical and simple interventions can be performed in order to save lives or prevent disability.

At present there are 269 CFRs within Staffordshire; some work alone as an individual, whilst others may belong to one of the 31 groups currently operating within the County.

The Community First Responder Schemes are entirely funded by charitable donations. Many CFRs actively carry out fundraising events to help raise money which goes towards funding responder kits, automated external defibrillators and some schemes even choose to purchase a car to aid them with their response.

If you have a busy work life and don’t feel like you can spare the time to become a volunteer responder but would still like to do something to help, then why not think about installing a defibrillator into your place of work or local community?

There are 406 public access defibrillators within Staffordshire. These are located in an array of places including business premises, schools, colleges, leisure centres, retail outlets and village halls to name but a few.

Some of the most recent defibrillator sites to go live include: Mayfield Memorial Hall, Aston Village Hall in Market Drayton, Royal Oak Public House in Bishops Wood and in Amington Park in Tamworth. Each defibrillator site is listed on a database held within the ambulance control room. If anyone dials 999 to a patient in cardiac arrest, in an area which has a defibrillator, they will be advised of its location and instructed how to use it. The machine itself will also electronically ‘talk’ the user through the process step by step.

Victoria Tufail, WMAS Community Response Manager said: “West Midlands Ambulance Service prides itself on having excellent community schemes that are in place around the region. The HeartStart course is a brilliant starter course for anyone who hasn’t undertaken any first aid training before or for anyone that feels they may need refreshing on the basic first aid principles. The course is suitable for both children and adults, so why not get involved as a family?

“Knowing what to do if someone is in cardiac arrest really can mean the difference between life or death. Eighty-five percent people who suffer cardiac arrests have the ability to be corrected by defibrillation. The quicker someone is defibrillated, not only improves the chance of their survival but it can also help to improve the chances of a full recovery and the time it takes to do so. For every minute a patient is in cardiac arrest, their chance of survival decreases by 10 percent. So by encouraging your work place or local community to invest in a defibrillator really could help to save a life.”

For more information about any of the above community schemes in Staffordshire please contact the community engagement team via 01785 237341 or email heartstartstaffordshire@wmas.nhs.uk. Alternatively please contact Staffordshire Community Response Manager, Victoria Tufail via Victoria.tufail@wmas.nhs.uk

For information about schemes outside of Staffordshire please visit http://www.wmas.nhs.uk/Pages/CFRs.aspx

Ends

* Each CFR has to complete an intensive training course provided by West Midlands Ambulance Service.

If you are interested in becoming at CFR volunteer, you should be:
• Aged between 18 – 70
• Have a current clean driving licence
• Be physically fit
• Be able to provide time when you can to attend incidents whether at home or work
• Have a caring nature and be willing to help raise the profile of the schemes in local areas

If you fancy a new career, you’ve still got time to apply for our popular Student Paramedic Training Programme. The closing date for entries is Monday 20th January.

Candidates need to hold 5 GCSEs grade A-C (including English, Maths and Science), an A Level qualification (or equivalent), a provisional Category C1 on their driving licences and should also have patient/customer care experience.

To apply, visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for West Midlands Ambulance Service. Alternatively visit www.wmas.nhs.uk and click on ‘join us’.

Angad Singh Flora completed the Student Paramedic programme in 2012 and now working as a Registered Paramedic for West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. Angad said: “The Student Paramedic training programme enabled me to fulfil my dream of becoming a Paramedic. I couldn’t afford to go to university so this option allowed me to learn brand new skills as well as earning a wage. I really feel as if I can now make a huge difference to my community. The support that I received from both the ambulance service and the university was fantastic!”

Please see the below press release from Herefordshire Heartstart, a charity supported by West Midlands Ambulance Service:

http://herefordshireheartstart.org/news/press-release-achievement-certificates-for-lifesaving-skills-used/

Tuesday 14^th January 2014 – 12.45pm – Chris Kowalik.

A man has been seriously injured in a road traffic collision on the outskirts of Wolverhampton.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Hollybush Road, Penn shortly before 9.30am today.

An advanced community paramedic in a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “A pedestrian, a man in his seventies, had collided with a car. He had a broken leg and a head injury.

“The man was fully immobilised and was sedated at the scene before being taken by ;and ambulance to New Cross Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends

If you fancy a new career, you’ve still got time to apply for our popular Student Paramedic Training Programme. The closing date for entries is Monday 20th January.

Candidates need to hold 5 GCSEs grade A-C (including English, Maths and Science), an A Level qualification (or equivalent), a provisional Category C1 on their driving licences and should also have patient/customer care experience.

To apply, visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for West Midlands Ambulance Service. Alternatively visit www.wmas.nhs.uk and click on ‘join us’.

Angad Singh Flora completed the Student Paramedic programme in 2012 and now working as a Registered Paramedic for West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. Angad said: “The Student Paramedic training programme enabled me to fulfil my dream of becoming a Paramedic. I couldn’t afford to go to university so this option allowed me to learn brand new skills as well as earning a wage. I really feel as if I can now make a huge difference to my community. The support that I received from both the ambulance service and the university was fantastic!”

Monday 13^th January 2014 – 6.30pm – Claire Brown.

A man had to be anaesthetised at the scene of a road traffic collision in Rugby this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a collision between a car and a pedestrian on Main Street in Bilton shortly after 4.00pm today (Monday). An ambulance, a responder paramedic, a paramedic area support officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance with a doctor on board attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “The responder paramedic was first on scene and found a man lying in the road unconscious after reportedly colliding with a car.

“Upon assessment, crews found the man, believed to be in his 80s, had sustained a serious head injury. The doctor decided to anaesthetise him on scene due to his condition. Once stable, crews and the medic immobilised the man with a neck collar, spinal board and pelvic splint before he was airlifted to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further emergency treatment.”

 

ENDS

Saturday 11th January 2014 – 5.45pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A man and a woman have been airlifted to hospital following two separate horse riding incidents today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the first incident in Whichford in Shipston on Stour at approximately 2.45pm this afternoon.

A rapid response vehicle, two community first responders and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance were dispatched the scene. A rapid response vehicle from South Central Ambulance Service was also in attendance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews were called to reports of a man who had fallen from his horse. It was reported that the horse had also rolled over the man during the incident.

“The rider was treated for a back injury at the scene. He was given pain relief and fully immobilised before being airlifted to University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire.”

The second incident happened 50 minutes later, when crews were called to Bayston Hill in Shrewsbury at approximately 3.35pm.

An ambulance and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a woman who was suffering with back and pelvic pain after falling from her horse.

“The woman was immobilised and given pain relief before being airlifted to University Hospital of North Staffordshire for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends

Saturday 11th January 2014 – 11.30am – Suzie Fothergill.

A man has been treated by ambulance crews following a road traffic collision in Tamworth today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service attended to the incident on Trinity Road in Kingsbury at approximately 1.55am this morning.

An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, the Hazardous Area Response Team, the West Midlands CARE team and the Trust’s MERIT rapid response vehicle, carrying a critical care paramedic and a trauma doctor, were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene, crews found a car situated approximately five metres off the carriageway down an embankment.

“A man, believed to be the driver of the vehicle, was found collapsed between some nearby trees. The man was treated at the scene for suspected internal injuries. Due to the nature of his injuries the casualty was fully immobilised and given an anaesthetic at the scene before being conveyed to the major trauma centre at University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire for further assessment and treatment.

“The hospital was pre-alerted and medics were on standby awaiting the man’s arrival.”

Ends

Saturday 11th January 2014 – 11.00am – Suzie Fothergill.

A man has died following a road traffic collision in Staffordshire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service received a call to the incident on Fisherwick Wood Lane in Fisherwick Wood, Lichfield shortly after midnight.

An ambulance, a rapid response vehicle and a paramedic area support officer were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a 4×4 vehicle that had left the carriageway and was found overturned down an embankment.

“Unfortunately on assessment of the driver, a man, it quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed deceased at the scene.”

Ends

Friday 10th January 2014 – 3pm – Steve Parry.

Two women have been taken to hospital following a road traffic collision on the M6 near Walsall, this afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the M6 southbound between junctions 10a  and 10 at just after 12.30pm.

Two ambulances and a paramedic officer were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Ambulance crews responded to a road traffic collision involving two cars and a lorry.

“Two females travelling in one of the cars involved were treated for neck and back pain. One of the patients had to be extricated from the vehicle. They were both immobilised with the use of a neck collar and placed on a spinal board before being taken to New Cross Hospital.

“A further female travelling in the car was assessed by ambulance staff before being released from the scene.

“The lorry driver and the driver of the second car involved were not injured.”

Ends

 

If you fancy a new career, you’ll be interested to know that we’re currently recruiting to our popular Student Paramedic Training Programme.

The closing date for entries is Monday 20th January. To apply, visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for West Midlands Ambulance Service. Alternatively visit www.wmas.nhs.uk and click on ‘join us’.

Angad Singh Flora completed the Student Paramedic programme in 2012 and now working as a Registered Paramedic for West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. Angad said: “The Student Paramedic training programme enabled me to fulfil my dream of becoming a Paramedic. I couldn’t afford to go to university so this option allowed me to learn brand new skills as well as earning a wage. I really feel as if I can now make a huge difference to my community. The support that I received from both the ambulance service and the university was fantastic!”

 

 

 

Friday 10^th January 2014 –10.00am – Claire Brown.

An estate agent in a Solihull village has given a home to a very special resident; a life-saving defibrillator.  

Situated in a yellow box on the wall of Hunters Estate Agents in High Street, Knowle, the defibrillator is secure but publicly accessible in the event of an emergency in the local community. 

Purchased by the Knowle and Dorridge Round Table, the defibrillator moved into its new home at Hunters in November. This week, local Fastaid Community First Responders have trained 20 estate agent staff in basic first aid and how to use the defibrillator.

Terry Flower, Fastaid Community First Responder in Solihull, was one of seven CFRs that helped to train Hunters staff on Tuesday and said: “Thanks to Hunters, the defibrillator is in a central location with quick access for all of the surrounding shops and residents which is great news for locals.

“Prior to the defibrillator being installed, FastAid carried out a training session in basic life support and the use of the defibrillator to 30 members of the Round Table and staff from Hunters. On Tuesday this week, we trained an additional 20 estate agent staff who are now competent in using the defibrillator and know how to help save a life with basic life support skills.

“With the support of the Round Table, FastAid will also be arranging training for other shop owners in the village of Knowle who are interested in saving a life.”

David Hofton of Hunters Estate Agents said: “Hunters are delighted to have assisted with the cost and location of this defibrillator.”

Andy Jeynes, the Trust’s Community Response Manager, said: “This is an excellent example of community organisations working together to support each other. Well done to Fastaid for their hard work and determination to help save lives.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

Photograph courtesy of Hunters (left to right): Ed Smith (Round Table), David Hofton (Hunters), Terry Flower (FastAid) and Andy Jeynes (Community Response Manager).

 

Friday 10th January 2014 – 8.30am – Suzie Fothergill.

Two men were treated by ambulance crews following a road traffic collision in Staffordshire yesterday.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the junction of the B5234 and the A515 in Burton on Trent shortly after 5.15pm yesterday evening.

Three ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Trust MERIT team, consisting of a critical care paramedic and a trauma doctor, were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews arrived to find a van and a car that had been in collision. The car had left the carriageway and was found down an embankment and in a field.

“The driver of the van, a man in his 30’s, was out of the vehicle on the crew’s arrival. He was treated for a hip injury and was conveyed to Queens Hospital in Burton for further assessment and treatment.

“The driver of the car was found to be trapped. Ambulance crews worked alongside the fire service to extricate the man from the vehicle. Due to the difficult location, the man was trapped for approximately two hours before being freed.

“The man, believed to be in his 50’s, was treated for head, chest and arm injuries at the scene. He was fully immobilised and given pain relief before being conveyed to University Hospital of North Staffordshire.

“The hospital had been pre-alert to the arrival of the man and of his injuries.”

Ends

Thursday 9^th January 2014 – 11.45am – Claire Brown.

Paramedics, police and nurses will be joining forces from tomorrow to ensure people with mental health issues receive the right treatment and care in Birmingham and Solihull.

West Midlands Police is one of a number to be selected by the Department of Health to pilot the ‘street triage’ scheme, which sees mental health nurses and paramedics accompany police officers to incidents where it’s believed people need immediate mental health support. The scheme is being supported by paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service and nurses from Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.

A dedicated car will be operating everyday throughout the Birmingham and Solihull area from tomorrow (Friday 10 January) and will involve police officers, nurses and paramedics working together to ensure people who need mental health care get the right support and at the same time reduce demand on the emergency services.

The pilot follows in the footsteps of other schemes that have taken place elsewhere in the country and have already shown that it can help to keep people out of custodial settings and reduce the demands on valuable police and ambulance time.

Dr Andy Carson, West Midlands Ambulance Service’s Medical Director said: “This is a fantastic and exciting opportunity for the Trust to work alongside partners to ensure the highest quality of care is delivered to some of the most vulnerable people from within our community. We welcome this opportunity and firmly believe this will ensure mental health provision will be amongst the best in the country.”

Chief Inspector Sean Russell, from West Midlands Police, said: “In emergency situations we want to make sure that people with mental health problems are correctly assessed, cared for and treated as quickly as possible. Officers are already trained to deal with these kinds but this additional support from health professionals will help officers to treat vulnerable people in emergencies. By having partners on hand we will also be able to reduce demand on valuable police and A&E resources and be able to provide a more effective service to the people of the West Midlands.”

John Short, Chief Executive at Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are looking forward to working more closely with our police and ambulance service colleagues to ensure that people in urgent need of mental health care receive the most appropriate support. This pilot will not only support people in crisis, but it will also help to further strengthen our relationship with West Midlands Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service for the benefit of our local population.”

On January 23 a free conference to support the national development of place of safety and the street triage scheme is taking place in Birmingham. The conference, being held at the Tally Ho Conference Centre from 9.30am to 3pm will discuss how the place of safety was established and the process for developing street triage.

For more information visit http://www.bsmhft.nhs.uk/service-user-and-carer/local-groups-and-events/trust-events/?entryid5=34826. To book your place email natalie.bardsley@bsmhft.nhs.ukor call 0121 301 2165.

Ends

See the BBC’s “The One Show” coverage of the scheme here:

Notes to Editors:  Photographs courtesy of West Midlands Police

Wednesday 8th January 2014 – 8.40am – Suzie Fothergill.

Two pedestrians and a car driver have been injured in a road traffic collision in Birmingham last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Bristol Street shortly after 10.55pm yesterday evening.

Three ambulances, a paramedic area support officer and the Trust’s MERIT rapid response vehicle, carrying a critical care paramedic and a trauma doctor were dispatched to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “On arrival at the scene crews found a car that had been in collision with a taxi and two pedestrians. It is also believed that the car had been in collision with a wall.

“The driver of the car, a man, was treated for leg and pelvic injuries. The man was fully immobilised and extricated from the vehicle before being conveyed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

“Two pedestrians were also injured. The first man was reportedly knocked out in the incident. He was treated at the scene and conveyed to City hospital. The second man was treated for an arm injury and was conveyed to the same hospital for further assessment and treatment.”

Ends

Tuesday 7th January 2014 –11pm – Suzie Fothergill.

A person has died following a house fire in Worcestershire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to a private property on a road off Lyttleton Avenue in Bromsgrove shortly before 4.35pm this afternoon.

An ambulance, the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and two ambulance officers in rapid response vehicles were dispatched to the scene. The fire service and police were also in attendance.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Crews were called to reports of a house fire in Bromsgrove.

“One person was found inside the property. Sadly, nothing could be done to save the person and they were confirmed deceased at the scene.”

Ends

Tuesday 7th January 2014 – 9.40am – Chris Kowalik.

Police cadets in Shropshire have been taught basic lifesaving skills as part of a countywide educational drive.

The volunteer cadets with West Mercia Police underwent a two-hour course at Shrewsbury police station as part of the “Heartstart Shropshire CFR” programme.

It was conducted by Liam Stafford, a call assessor at West Midlands Ambulance Service’s Emergency Operations Centre in Stafford.

Liam said: “Teaching these important lifesaving skills is a great way to interact with the public and the youth of today, giving them the confidence and knowledge should they find themselves in an emergency situation”

PC Scott Smither from West Mercia Police said: “The Cadets enjoyed the session and clearly learnt some very important skills. The training was vital in them learning these basic skills that one day might just save a life.”

The free course covers areas such as CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), loss of consciousness, choking and chest pain.

It is hoped the Heartstart course will be delivered to new police cadets from other parts of the force area.

To book a free course – contact Noel Orbell at West Midlands Ambulance Service on 07980 094808.

Ends