Monday 21st September 2015 – 12.50pm – Jamie Arrowsmith.
A Community First Responders (CFRs) group is celebrating ten years of saving lives by launching an appeal for new members.
Ashley and Loggerheads CFRs has responded to almost 5000 jobs in that time, saving dozens of lives along the way.
As the group starts looking towards the next ten years, it is appealing for new members to come forward and join it to help boost numbers within its ranks.
When the group formed it had 20 members but in the years that have passed, some have moved on to other areas, left the country or retired. As a result just four responders are left with three more about to start their training.
CFRs are members of the public from all walks of life who give up their spare time to help make a difference in their communities.
All are trained by West Midlands Ambulance Service to a nationally recognised level and help to reach those people suffering from medical emergencies in the remote rural communities fast, 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.
Ashley and Loggerheads CFR co-ordinator, Mark Pepper, said: “We are extremely proud of the work we have done over the last ten years and all of the lives we have saved.
“It is a significant moment for the group to reach ten years of service and we look forward to carrying on, hopefully with more people volunteering to come and join us.
“The feeling you get when you know you’ve helped somebody survive is priceless.”
Matt Heward, WMAS Community Response Manager, said: “West Midlands Ambulance Service prides itself on having excellent community schemes that are in place around the region. CFRs are vital in rural communities and it is without doubt that thanks to their efforts, dedication and actions, lives have been saved.”
CFR groups rely on charitable donations and fund-raising, therefore if you cannot spare the time to join as a responder, but would like to assist with raising money, the group is also keen to hear from you.
Email coordinator@alcfr.co.uk for more information regarding joining the group as a responder or as a fund-raiser.
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Notes to Editors:
Picture caption (l-r) Ashley and Loggerhead CFRs – Mark Pepper, Debbie Cooper, Damian Murphy, Jeff Love and Val Kennett.