News

Murray MacGregor – Thursday 9^th May 2024 – 3.30pm.

Yesterday, 110 staff from West Midlands Ambulance Service came together to celebrate the work of the Trust’s six staff networks along.

Alongside this, the valuable role the peer to peer Staff Advice and Liaison Service, Chaplaincy Service and Freedom to Speak Up play in supporting staff, improving services and helping staff develop their careers was highlighted.

The event in Brierley Hill heard from each of the Networks:

• Women’s
• Disability Carers & Advocates
• ONE – ethnic minority
• Military
• Proud – LGBT+
• Student

The Trust was also pleased to hear from Randeep Kular (Co-Chair APNA Midlands) and Bev Baker (Fairness Improvement Lead at University Hospital Birmingham. 

In the afternoon colleagues took part in workshops on topics such as Creating a Wellness Recovery Action Plan and Self Discovery, while staff could also take part in Reiki sessions. 

The day was organised by Manjeet Malhi, the Trust’s Health & Wellbeing Manager.  She said: “The work that our Networks do is so important to so many staff.  The support, training and shared lived experiences really does make a difference. 

“We heard repeatedly how having the Networks really is making a difference to colleagues; they give colleagues a sense of belonging and somewhere they can talk to likeminded individuals about work and personal matters.  It was also great to hear how the Networks are working together to share those experiences.”

Bev Baker, said: “Staff Networks play a key part in any organisation developing itself so that individuals feel included and it also reduces stigmas:

Sonia Bhattle, Vice Chair of the Women’s Network, said: “One of our key focuses over the last year has been to focus on women’s health issues, but our work goes much further than that:

Disability, Carers and Advocates Network Chair, John Eames, said: “We need to get away from the view that disabilities are only visible; many are not, but by making reasonable adjustments, we can benefit from so many staff who might otherwise not work for us:

ONE Network Co-Chair, Keeling Hutton, said: Our aim is to tackle diversity and inclusion issues and ensure people in all of our communities see that there is a role for them within this organisation:

Tim Atherton, who is Chair of the Military Network, said: “With over 2 million veterans in the UK, they are a significant cohort of our patients.  We are in a unique position to play a key part in ensuring they get the care they need:

PROUD Network Chair, Ash Deakins, said: “As someone who was bullied for my sexuality, working for WMAS has made me feel like I am at home.  I want to ensure that we ensure other staff feel the same:

Our newest Network represents Students and other learners.  Co-Chair Raul Anton Gutierrez said: “Students are the future of the Service.  By ensuring we help them develop their careers, we can ensure we have engaged and dedicated staff:

All, staff, students, and volunteers have access to our peer to peer support group, the Staff Advice and Liaison Service.  Co-ordinator Elaine Weaver said: “Last year we helped over 750 staff with a wide variety of concerns both work and home life related:

In an organisation with over 7,000 staff, making sure staff feel able to speak up about concerns is vital.  Freedom to Speak up Guardian Pippa Wall and Lucy Butler say the Trust has made significant progress over the last two years, but we have further still to go:

The meeting also heard from two of the Trust’s Chaplains, Imam Mohammed Asad and the Rev Steve Bentham.  Stev said: “We were gifted with one mouth but two ears, so we feel we can offer something different by providing a listening ear to people whether they have faith or not:

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Shaunna Farley – Thursday 9^th May 2024 – 12pm.

A motorcyclist has sustained potentially life-threatening injuries following a collision in Leominster today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 6.26am to a collision involving a van and a motorbike in Ashton, Leominster. One ambulance, a BASICS emergency doctor and the Midland Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival, we found a man who was the motorcyclist who was assessed by ambulance staff and had sustained potentially life-threatening injuries.

“Ambulance staff administered advanced trauma care to him at the scene and he was conveyed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital by air ambulance for further treatment.”

“Two men who were the driver of and a passenger in the van were assessed by ambulance staff and had sustained injuries not believed to be serious.

They were conveyed to Hereford County Hospital by land ambulance for further assessment.”

ENDS.

Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 8^th May 2024 – 9.15am

Three men required treatment from the ambulance service and were taken to hospital after a car crashed into a bridge last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Birchfield Road, Birmingham at 9.32pm and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance Critical Care Car to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered four patients after a car had crashed into a bridge.

“One of the patients, a man, was treated for serious injuries whilst a further two men were treated for potentially serious injuries. All three were transported to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.

“The fourth patient was assessed and discharged at the scene.”

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Amy Stubbs – Tuesday 7^th May 2024 – 9.40am

A man has died after a collision involving two cars in Birmingham yesterday.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 6.06pm to the junction of Drews Lane and Ward End Road in Ward End and sent four ambulances, two paramedic officers, a MERIT trauma doctor, two critical care paramedics and the Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found one of the cars had ended up on its side and there were eight patients.

“A man in the first car was found in a critical condition.

“After being removed from the vehicle with the assistance of fire colleagues, ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support.

“Sadly, despite everyone’s best efforts, he could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene.

“Two men from the same car were treated for injuries not believed to be serious and both were conveyed on blue lights to Heartlands Hospital for further treatment.

“Five patients from the second car – two adults and three children – were assessed but did not require treatment and so were given self-care advice and discharged at the scene.

“A ninth patient, not involved in the collision, was assessed by medics but did not require hospital treatment and was discharged at the scene.

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Amy Stubbs – Tuesday 30^th April 2024 – 9.35am

A man has died after a collision near Worcester last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 10.23pm to Pershore Lane in Warndon and sent four ambulances, a paramedic officer, a specialist paramedic and the Air Ambulance Critical Care Car from Strensham to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found two cars had been involved in a collision and one of the cars had ended up on its side.

“The driver from the car on its side, a man, was in a critical condition.

“After being removed from the vehicle, ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support.

“Sadly, despite everyone’s best efforts, he could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The four patients from the other car, all men, were already out of the vehicle when crews arrived.

“They were all treated for potentially serious injuries and conveyed to Worcester Royal Hospital for further treatment.”

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Jamie Arrowsmith – Thursday 25^th April 2024 – 10am

Not content with running one Ultramarathon in his lifetime, Telford CFR Peter Corr is all set to tackle a second one at the weekend, but this time in reverse.

Peter, who suffered a cardiac arrest on his daily run in 2019, will once again be taking to the start line of the Telford T50 Ultramarathon on Saturday, but this year the course has been switched, to be run in reverse.

The Telford T50 is a 50mile walkway around Telford which starts and finishes in the Ironbridge Gorge and includes Telford Town Park, Lilleshall Hill, Wellington, The Ercall and The Wrekin along the way.

Peter, who is will once again tackle the event with his running partner Dave Isaac, is raising funds for Telford Community First Responders.

He joined the scheme after surviving an out of hospital cardiac arrest when luckily bystanders were prepared to start CPR on him, ultimately saving his life.

Peter said: “I was incredibly lucky on that day in 2019 that someone had the knowledge and was brave enough to start CPR. That is why I became a CFR, to be able to do the same for other people in the community and why I am taking on this event to raise money for my scheme.

“The figures don’t make great reading as roughly only one in ten people who suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital will survive, so the more people we can make aware of CPR and its importance, the better.

“I’m looking forward to tackling the course again on Saturday and it will be interesting giving it a try the other way round, hopefully it will mean we don’t get lost as much!

“I said last year that doing it once was ridiculous, so I’m not sure where the logic comes from to be trying it again. But, if we can help raise vital funds for our CFR scheme, then it will all be worthwhile.”

If you would like to sponsor Peter you can do so here.

Get in touch with Telford CFRs by the ‘Contact Us’ page on their website Home – (telfordcfrs.org)

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Pictured (l-r) Dave Isaac and Peter Corr during last year’s Ultramarathon.

Shaunna Farley – Wednesday 24^th April 2024 – 9.30am.

A woman has sustained life-threatening injuries following a collision in Wolverhampton yesterday.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 7.24pm to a collision involving a bus and a pedestrian at the junction of Oaklands Road and Penn Road in Wolverhampton. One ambulance, a paramedic officer and a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival, we found a woman who was the pedestrian who was assessed by ambulance staff and had sustained potentially life-threatening injuries.

“Ambulance staff administered advanced trauma care to her at the scene and she was conveyed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment.

“No further patients required treatment.”

ENDS.

Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 24th April 2024 – 8.35am.

A woman has died and two men have been taken to hospital following an RTC in Redditch yesterday.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a three-car RTC on Bordesley Lane at 2.44pm and sent four ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival crews discovered a woman in a critical condition.

“Ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support but sadly, despite their best efforts it became apparent nothing could be done to save her and she was confirmed dead at the scene.

“A man was treated for potentially serious injuries before being taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital by land ambulance.

“A second man, who was found nearby, was treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch, also by land ambulance.”

ENDS.

Jamie Arrowsmith – Friday 19th April 2024 – 3pm

A man has died following a single-car RTC this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A38 in Lichfield, near to the Swinfen Interchange roundabout, at 8.53am and sent three ambulances, a paramedic officer, a MERIT trauma doctor with a critical care paramedic and the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance Critical Care Car to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival we discovered a car that had overturned and four patients.

“One of whom, a man, was found to be in a critical condition. Ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support but sadly, despite their best efforts it became apparent nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“A second man was assessed and treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to Royal Derby Hospital.

“Two further patients were assessed and discharged at the scene.”

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Amy Stubbs – Monday 15^th April 2024 – 10.30am

A man has died after a collision in Oldbury last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 7.58pm to Stone Street and sent two ambulances, two paramedic officers, a MERIT trauma doctor and two critical care paramedics to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found one car had been involved in a collision and ended up on its roof.

“There were two patients.

“A man, believed to be a passenger, was found in a critical condition.

“After being removed from the car, ambulance crews immediately began administering advanced life support but sadly, despite everyone’s best efforts, the patient could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene.

“A second patient, a man, who was believed to be the driver, had suffered potentially life-changing injuries.

“He received advanced trauma care at the scene before being taken on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham; MERIT travelled on board to provide continued treatment en route.”

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Amy Stubbs – Monday 15^th April 2024 – 9.30am

A child has died and two women were taken to hospital after a road traffic collision in Birmingham last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 9.45pm to Upper Highgate Street.

An ambulance arrived on scene in three minutes and was followed shortly after by another two ambulances, two paramedic officers, a MERIT trauma doctor and two critical care paramedics.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found a car and four pedestrians had been involved in a collision.

“A child, female, was in a critical condition and ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support.

“Sadly, despite everyone’s best efforts, she could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene.

“Two women were treated by medics for serious, but not life-threatening, injuries and were conveyed on blue lights to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further treatment.

“A fourth patient, a child, was assessed by ambulance crews but was not injured and so was discharged at the scene.”

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Amy Stubbs – Thursday 11^th April 2024 – 9.20am

A man has been taken to a Major Trauma Centre with potentially life-threatening injuries following a stabbing in Handsworth this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 12.14am to Whitehall Road and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer, MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic to the scene with the first resource arriving in 6 minutes.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found a man with critical injuries.

“Ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced trauma care before he was conveyed on blue lights to hospital.

“MERIT travelled on board to provide continued treatment en route”.

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Amy Stubbs – Wednesday 10^th April 2024 – 8.40am

A man has died and a woman’s been taken to hospital after a road traffic collision in Hinckley last night.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 9.55pm to Smockington Lane near Wolvey and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Air Ambulance Critical Care Car to the scene. An ambulance crew from East Midlands Ambulance Service also attended.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews discovered three cars had been involved in a collision.

“Sadly, it quickly became clear that a male patient, the driver of one of the cars, could not be saved and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The driver of a second car, a woman, was already out of the vehicle on arrival.

“Ambulance staff treated her for potentially serious injuries before conveying her to University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire for further treatment.”

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Shaunna Farley – Thursday 4^th April 2024 – 4.50pm.

A pedestrian has sustained life-threatening injuries following a road traffic collision in Pedmore.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 1.11pm this afternoon to a collision involving a car and a pedestrian at the junction of Chawn Park and Ham Lane in Pedmore, Stourbridge. One ambulance, a paramedic officer, a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic and a BASICS emergency doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found a woman who was the pedestrian. She was assessed and had sustained life-threatening injuries.

 “Ambulance staff administered advanced life support and advanced trauma care to her at the scene which continued en route to Queen Elizabeth Hospital where she was conveyed for further treatment.”

ENDS.

Shaunna Farley – Thursday 4^th April 2024 – 11.55pm.

A motorcyclist has sustained serious injuries following a road traffic collision in Drayton Bassett.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 6.45am to a collision involving two cars and a motorbike on the A4091 in Drayton Basett. Two ambulances, and a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found a man who was the motorcyclist. He was assessed and had sustained serious injuries.

 “He received advanced trauma care from ambulance staff at the scene and was conveyed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment.”

“Two men who were the drivers of the cars were assessed by ambulance staff and had sustained minor injuries. They received self care advice from ambulance staff before being discharged at the scene.”

ENDS.

Jamie Arrowsmith – Friday 22^nd March 2024 – 1.45pm

West Midlands Ambulance Service’s Medical Director, Dr Alison Walker, was thrilled to be presented with an Honorary Doctorate of Science by Coventry University yesterday.

The Doctorate was presented in honour of Alison’s dedicated contribution to the enhancement of pre-hospital care across the West Midlands and the country.

Alison has worked for the NHS for more than 30 years and has been with West Midlands Ambulance Service as interim, then substantive, Medical Director and Honorary Medical Advisor since 2010. 

She is also the Chair of JRCALC, the Joint Royal Colleges Ambulance Liaison Committee, which sets the guidelines for how all ambulance staff operate from a clinical perspective across the UK.

Last year she also received a prestigious Gold Medal from the Royal College of Emergency Medicine for her work developing links between hospitals and ambulance services during the pandemic. 

Alison is also heavily involved in research, not only undertaking investigations herself, but supporting others to make steps forward in medical care.

She said: “I am really delighted to have received the Honorary Doctorate as it’s lovely to have that level of recognition from an academic body. 

“I was supposed to be coming down to Coventry a year ago but couldn’t make it as I had a brain haemorrhage and got to see the NHS from a different perspective, as a patient.  

“Having spent three months in hospital and been further supported during my recovery, I really appreciate everything that staff within the NHS do to support patients every single day.  

“The care I received means that I am not only able to return to work but also to have attended yesterday’s ceremony which was a fantastic event.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

If used, please credit the image to Coventry University.

Amy Stubbs – 22^nd March 2024 – 9.30am

West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust (WMAS) has made it to the final of the Disability Smart Awards nominated for the Disability Confident Mental Health & Wellbeing in the Workplace Award.

The award recognises how an organisation has supported employees’ mental health and wellbeing in new and innovative ways, demonstrating a positive impact on the lives of their disabled employees and shows how the organisation has thoughtfully considered accessibility and inclusion for everyone when designing how a mental health and wellbeing strategy is delivered.

The criteria also required the organisation to show barriers experienced by disabled employees have been removed to enable everyone to access mental health and wellbeing support as needed.

This recognition speaks volumes for all the work that has been done to improve our support networks. We’re also the only NHS Trust to be shortlisted and are going head-to-head with international companies Bristol Myers Squibb and Asda.

Recruitment Manager, Louise Jones, helped submit our entry titled ‘Supporting Our People – #TeamWMAS’. She said: “I was thrilled to be able to pull together all the great work that is currently being done in the Trust by colleagues and I think this accolade recognises how hard everyone works to make WMAS an inclusive place to work.

“We have so many great things to shout about but we don’t stop there, we continue to identify how we can further support both applicants and employees with disabilities to succeed at work.”

WMAS has a wide range of support services available to all staff, as we recognise that a one size fits all approach does not meet everybody’s needs. In addition to the work completed by the Disability, Carers & Advocates Network, more recently we have launched a Neurodiversity workplace support group. This is peer led to provide colleagues with an informal support avenue to share experiences and support. We are also pleased to be working closely with the British Dyslexia Association as part of their workplace accreditation scheme.

The awards take place in London on 30^th April but you can watch the livestream on the day if you’d like to join.

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Shaunna Farley – Thursday 21st March 2024 – 09.00am.

Would you know what to do if someone was bleeding profusely?

The single most preventable cause of death is bleeding. This is why West Midlands Ambulance Service in partnership with citizenAID, are holding a Stop The Bleed Training event at Sandwell Hub on Saturday 27^th April.

The training aims to teach attendees about how they can take action to control a significant bleed and give the victim the best possible chance of survival.

The day will take place from 10am-4pm at Sandwell Ambulance Hub, with trainers on the day teaching attendees how to control an injury where blood loss is present throughout 40-minute sessions.

Those who complete the training will receive a certificate of attendance on the day and attendees need no prior medical training. All can attend from the age 11+. 

Director of Performance & Improvement, Nathan Hudson said: “Teaching these life saving skills in the community is vital. Bystander intervention being taken before medics arrive can make a crucial difference to the chance of survival where major blood loss is present.

“The training is incredibly important, and we hope to see as many people as possible there on the day learning to potentially make a life-saving impact if they are ever in a situation where they need to put those skills to use.”

Professor Sir Keith Porter, Co-founder of citizenAID said: “The time between an injury occurring and the arrival of skilled help is when many injured patients die, with the most common preventable cause of death being blood loss.

“Simple first aid measures save lives and I would encourage everyone to attend the “Stop the Bleed” course. Simply giving up 40 minutes of your time to attend this training could be life-saving.

If you would like to register your place, please do so by emailing DG-TrainingAdministration@wmas.nhs.uk, more information regarding the day and the sessions can be found here.

ENDS.

Shaunna Farley – Wednesday 20th March 2024 – 1.15pm.

A motorcyclist has sustained life-threatening injuries following a road traffic collision in Sandon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 3.51pm on Tuesday to a collision involving a motorcyclist on Lichfield Road, Sandon in Stafford. Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found a man. He was assessed and had sustained life-threatening injuries.

 “He received advanced trauma care from ambulance staff at the scene and was conveyed to Royal Stoke University Hospital by land ambulance for further treatment.”

ENDS.

Shaunna Farley – Tuesday 12^th March 2024 – 9.45am.

A man has died following a road traffic collision in Burslem.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 11.41pm last night to a collision involving a stationary van and a motorcyclist on Federation Road, Burslem in Stoke-on-Trent. Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a BASICS emergency doctor attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found a man who was the motorcyclist. Ambulance staff immediately administered advanced life support to him at the scene.

“Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of ambulance staff, nothing more could be done to save him and he was confirmed deceased.

ENDS.

Jamie Arrowsmith – Friday 8^th March 2024 – 9.30am.

A pedestrian has been airlifted to hospital with serious injuries following a collision with a car this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Trefonen Road, Oswestry at 6.58am and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance staff discovered a car that had overturned and the pedestrian, a woman, who had suffered serious injuries in the incident.

“They immediately began administering emergency care at the scene before airlifting the patient to Royal Stoke University Hospital.

“The driver of the car, a man, was assessed and discharged at the scene.”

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Murray MacGregor – Thursday 7^th March 2024 – 9.55am.

An elderly man has died after a two car crash early this morning in Warwickshire.

The collision happened at about 6.00am on the B4086 Wellesborne Road just to the east of Alveston.

Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and The Air Ambulance Service Critical Care Car were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, ambulance crews found one car that had suffered very significant damage.  Members of the public were providing the driver with basic life support.

“Ambulance crews took over providing advanced clinical care, but sadly, it was not possible to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The driver of the other car was unhurt.”

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Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 6^th March 2024 – 9am

Two Keele Community First Responders (CFRs) are preparing to take on very different fund-raising challenges, to raise money for their scheme.

Jake McCandless and Chris Wyatt are taking on challenges that couldn’t be much further apart in terms of extremes, but both which require very different skillsets.

Bravery will very much be the order of the day for Jake as he prepares to take to the skies on Friday (8^th March) to complete a skydive from 13,000ft, on what is his 20^th birthday.

Chris meanwhile, will need lots of physical and mental resilience, ahead of him taking on all 26.2-miles of the London Marathon on Sunday, 21^st April.

Looking ahead to his skydive, which will take place in Peterborough, Jake said: “Obviously Friday is a special day for me being my 20^th birthday, but this seems like a great way to remember it.

“It is a big challenge as I am terribly scared of heights, but I feel like it is a case of go big or go home.

“However, the decision to do it and try to raise money for the scheme is based on the fact that we solely rely on donations to maintain our response vehicle and provide our volunteers with the resources needed to attend life-threatening emergencies.”

Ahead of taking to the streets of London next month, Chris said: “This is the biggest challenge I have ever set myself, to run a full marathon. I’ve always wanted to do one so was pleased to be successful in the ballot to get a place.

“It is going to be a very personal challenge for me as over the past few years I have wanted to get myself in shape, but so far failed. However, I am determined this time will be different and that I will be a healthier and stronger person.”

CFRs are volunteers who respond to emergency 999 calls within their local community on behalf of the ambulance service.

Keele CFRs are made up of students and members of the community who respond to incidents throughout Keele University, Keele, Silverdale, Newcastle-under-Lyme. Madeley and the surrounding areas.

If you would like to donate to Jake’s skydive fundraising, please click here. Alternatively, for Chris’ Marathon fund-raising page, please click here.

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Notes to Editors:

Picture caption – (L-R) Chris Wyatt and Jake McCandless are taking on two very different fund-raising challenges, to raise money for their CFR scheme.

Shaunna Farley – Monday 4^th March 2024 – 9.30am.

A man has died following a road traffic collision involving a motorcyclist and a car in Tamworth.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called just after 10pm last night to a collision involving a car and a morotcyclist on Comberford Road, Tamworth. Three ambulances, two paramedic officers and a Critical Care Car from the Air Ambulance Service attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found a man who was the motorcyclist in a critical condition. Ambulance staff immediately administered advanced life support to him.

“Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of ambulance staff at the scene, nothing more could be done to save him and he was confirmed deceased.

“The driver of the car did not require treatment.”

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Amy Stubbs – Friday 1^st March 2024 – 8.15am

A man has died after a collision involving two lorries on the M50 near Worcester yesterday (Thursday).

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 10.54am to the Eastbound stretch between junctions 2 and 1 near Tewkesbury and sent an ambulance, two paramedic officers, the Trust’s Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Strensham to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found one of the lorry drivers, a man, in a critical condition.

“Medics immediately began administering advanced life support but sadly, despite everyone’s best efforts, it quickly became clear that he could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene.

“There were no other patients”.

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Amy Stubbs – Friday 23^rd February 2024 – 10.20am

Two women and a child have died and two men are in hospital after a collision involving two cars in Worcester yesterday afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 3.07pm to the A44 in Spetchley and sent five ambulances, four paramedic officers, a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic and two Midlands Air Ambulances from Cosford and Strensham to the scene. The first resource arrived within seven minutes.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews discovered five patients.

“Two women and a male child from the first car were in critical conditions.

“The child received advanced life support before being conveyed on blue lights via land ambulance to Worcester Royal Hospital but sadly, shortly after arrival, it became clear he could not be saved and was confirmed dead.

“Medics administered advanced life support to both female patients but unfortunately, despite everyone’s best efforts, they could not be saved and were confirmed dead at the scene.

“There were two male patients from the second car.

“The first man was treated for life-threatening injuries and taken to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham via land ambulance for further treatment.

“The second man, the driver, had suffered potentially life-threatening injuries and was conveyed via land ambulance to the same hospital.

“Ambulance staff were grateful for the assistance of police and fire colleagues at the scene as all three emergency services worked well together in what were extremely difficult circumstances.”

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Murray MacGregor – Friday 23^rd February 2024 – 12.01am.

A new report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has shown the West Midlands Ambulance Service remains the best in the country.

The CQC inspected the Trust last year and looked at two core services: urgent and emergency care and our emergency operations centres (EOC), as well as how well-led the trust was overall.  Today they published their report which rates the Trust as ‘Good’.

Trust Chief Executive, Anthony Marsh, said: “The overall rating has dropped from Outstanding to Good, which is disappointing given how hard our staff work every single day, but we are delighted that the inspectors continue to believe that the caring domain remains outstanding.

“In addition, the inspectors have now rated our Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) as outstanding; the only one in the country. As the report notes, we have the best call answering in the country and treat more patients over the phone than any other Trust. 

“However, the biggest change the inspectors noted was in our effectiveness, which has dropped from outstanding to requires improvement.  The report is very clear that the root cause of this change is as a result of hospital handover delays that see our crews stuck outside hospitals for hours on end, unable to respond to patients in the community.  They also note the hugely negative impact these delays have on our staff and their wellbeing.

“As a Trust, this is an issue that we have raised time and time again, with the Trust Board rating this risk at 25, the highest available.  We understand the pressures our partners are under and we will continue to do everything we can to work with them to make the changes necessary to allow us to get to patients much more quickly going forwards.

“Given this inspection happened at perhaps the most challenging time within the history of the NHS, there is much to be proud of.  However, we do also note the comments about our culture.  The report notes the work we have done ensuring staff feel able to speak up and our colleagues treat each other with the respect they deserve. 

“The Trust has been working hard over the last 18 months with staff fully involved in creating a new cultural statement, the launch of our sexual safety charter, the development of our six staff networks and the substantial increase in the health and wellbeing support available to individuals.

“While it is pleasing that the CQC noted the progress that we have made, we absolutely accept that there is further work to be done.

“By service lines inspected, WMAS has more outstanding ratings than any other ambulance service, something our staff should be incredibly proud of, but we are determined to make the changes necessary to move back to Outstanding overall when we are next inspected.” 

Joint Union Staffside Chair, Reena Farrington added: “We are obviously delighted to see EOC achieve an ‘outstanding’ rating but it is disappointing that the hard work of our operational staff is not being fully recognised by the outcome of the report. 

“It is not their fault that they are stuck for hours on end outside A&E Departments, yet they are being penalised for that in the rating.  Why should hard working, dedicated staff be penalised for something that is out of their control?  We will continue to work with the Trust to improve the culture of the organisation and ensure all staff feel safe to speak out.”

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Shaunna Farley – Monday 19^th February 2024 – 10.20am.

A man has died following a road traffic collision involving multiple vehicles in Handsworth.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 8.22pm to Soho Road, Handsworth in Birmingham and sent three ambulances, three paramedic officers, a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic and a Critical Care Car from the Air Ambulance Service to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found three patients from the cars.

“The first was a man who was a passenger in one of the cars. He had sustained life threatening injuries and received advanced life support and advanced trauma care from ambulance staff at the scene.

“Unfortunately, nothing more could be done to save him and he was confirmed deceased at the scene.

“A woman from one of the cars was assessed and had sustained potentially serious injuries. She received treatment at the scene before being conveyed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment.

“A man who was the driver of one of the cars was assessed by ambulance staff and had sustained injuries which were not believed to be life threatening. He was conveyed to Sandwell District Hospital for further assessment.”

“A further man from one of the cars was assessed by ambulance staff and did not require treatment. He received self care advice before being discharged at the scene.”

ENDS.

Shaunna Farley – Thursday 15th February 2024 – 8am.

A member of Team WMAS is calling upon some of our broadest Brummie blokes to get in touch and help her son, Jack, who has Athetoid Cerebral Palsy.

Jack is the son of Vehicle Preparation Operative (VPO), Heidi Wells from Erdington and he is looking to find the perfect voice for him.

Jack is one of the many people who use a communication aid to talk, similar to some famous faces you may know of such as Lost Voice Guy and Stephen Hawkins.

You can now, with the help of technology, programme a person’s voice into the device to give Jack his very own voice that he connects with and is searching for a male Brummie who is preferably between the ages of 18-30.

Jack’s Mum, Heidi said: “Having his own voice would really give my son individuality and the ability to have a voice he feels he can identify with rather than the standard, robotic voice.

“It would mean the world to Jack, even more so because he is now engaged and wants to be able to say ‘I do’ in his own personal voice on his big day!”

If you think you might be the right voice to help Jack, please e-mail pressoffice@wmas.nhs.uk

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Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 14^th February 2024 – 10.50am.

Two women have been treated and taken to hospital following a two-car RTC in Wolverhampton this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Blackhalve Lane at 7.45am and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival crews discovered two cars, both with front end damage.

“There were two patients, both women, who were the drivers of the two cars.

“One of the women was treated for serious injuries before being taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham by land ambulance.

“The second patient was treated for potentially serious injuries before being taken to New Cross Hospital by land ambulance.”

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Jamie Arrowsmith – Tuesday 12^th February 2024 – 2pm.

Six patients have been treated and taken to hospital following separate RTCs on both sides of the carriageway in North Staffordshire today.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was initially called to reports of a two-car RTC on the southbound M6, between junctions 16 and 15, at 11.35am. Two ambulances, two paramedic officers and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A second RTC followed on the northbound carriageway, between junctions 15 and 16, at 11.52am and involved two HGVs and a car. An additional ambulance and paramedic officer was dispatched to this incident.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival at the first incident, on the southbound carriageway, we discovered three patients.

“A man was found to have suffered serious injuries and received specialist trauma care at the scene before being taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital by land ambulance. The medic, from the air ambulance, travelled with the patient to help continue treatment enroute to hospital.

“A woman was treated for potentially serious injuries whilst a child was treated for injuries not believed to be serious before they were taken to the same hospital, also by land ambulance.

“The second collision, on the northbound carriageway, resulted in three patients.

“A woman and two children were all treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital on the same land ambulance.”

The northbound carriageway has since been reopened but the southbound carriageway remains closed at the time of issue of this press release.

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Shaunna Farley – Thursday 8th February 2024 – 12.40pm.

West Midlands Ambulance Service is proud to be launching a Race Equality & Inclusion Charter for staff as it marks Race Equality Week.

The Charter represents the Trusts commitment to Anti – Racism, striving towards inclusivity and maintaining a zero tolerance approach to racism and discrimination. It emphasises addressing racism and asks staff to speak up against it if encountered or observed within the organisation or during interactions with patients.

As an extension of the Charter, a training package has been created that aims to increase awareness around the different forms of racial discrimination, how we can speak out against it and also the importance of understanding & valuing difference.  

Director of People, Carla Beechey said: “The Trust is committed to creating and maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to racism and discrimination.  Sadly, we have seen cases of this internally, but where it has happened, we have taken immediate and robust action.

“Sadly however, too many of our staff have and continue to face racism as they go about their job, which we find deeply disappointing.  How can it be right, for example, that a paramedic wearing a hijab faces abusive comments from bystander and even patients when another member of staff wouldn’t; they are both trying to help people in their hour of need.

“Race and racism are not always well understood and therefore race is mistakenly and widely used to denote difference.  Racism is very real and yet often we deny it affects us and our behaviours, which is something we are determined to change.”

Head of Diversity and Inclusion, Mohammed Ramzan said: “I’m very excited by the training package and hope it will help us take another step forward in our commitment to creating a more inclusive workplace for all staff, volunteers, students, patients and service users.

“Racial discrimination can have a significant psychological impact on the health and well-being of those affected; therefore, we need to continue working hard to develop an inclusive workplace culture where employees feel safe to, and actively challenge racial discrimination and inequalities across our Trust and the wider West Midlands.”

Human Resources Manager, Charanpreet Dheensa said: “This Charter is WMAS’s commitment to our staff, students and volunteers that racism will not be tolerated, and whatever your heritage, ethnicity or culture, you will be treated fairly, with respect and with compassion.

“It is a commitment to upholding your right to work in an environment that is free from racial discrimination, abuse, and harassment, and free from any form of racist language and behaviour.  It is the promotion and celebration of diversity through inclusion and acceptance.”

The training will  be available to all employee’s, students or volunteers and provides a structure for how we can work together to achieve a safe, inclusive and positive place to work.

Across the week, we will be sharing details of the Anti-Racism Charter and the new training package on Trust social media via @OFFICIALWMAS on Facebook, Instagram, X and Threads.

If you would like more information about the Charter, you can read more here: https://wmas.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Race-Equality-Inclusion-Charter.pdf

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Shaunna Farley – Monday 5th February 2024 – 1pm.

A man has died following a road traffic collision involving a car and a van in Telford this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 08.20am to a collision involving a car and a van on Roden Lane in Telford. Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midland Air Ambulance from Cosford attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found a man who was the driver of the car who is believed to have suffered a medical incident at the wheel, in a critical condition being cared for by a passing-by off-duty doctor. Ambulance staff immediately administered advanced life support to him.

“Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of ambulance staff at the scene, nothing more could be done to save him and he was confirmed deceased.

“The driver of the van did not require treatment.”

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Shaunna Farley – Monday 5th February 2024 – 8am.

West Midlands Ambulance Service is celebrating over 3,500 apprentices past and present, who have been employed by the Trust this National Apprenticeship Week.

National Apprenticeship Week is marked across the 5-11^th February and aims to shine a light on the amazing work being done by employers and apprentices across the country.

West Midlands Ambulance Service is one of the first Ambulance Trusts approved as an Apprenticeship Main Training Provider with the Education and Skills Funding Agency for Higher Level Apprenticeships and remains the most productive organisation in the West Midlands region, and within the ambulance sector, for developing our staff through the delivery of the apprenticeship standards, with the largest provision of student paramedic registered apprentices.

The Trust first introduced apprenticeship programmes in 2010, when it introduced the very first apprenticeship which still runs at the Trust today, the Motor Vehicle Apprenticeship. To date, the Trust currently have several apprenticeship routes to offer, ranging from level 2 to level 7 apprenticeships. Since 2010, the service has seen a total of 3,977 apprentices.

In October 2012, the Trust announced its Non-Emergency Patient Transport Scheme, over the eleven years we have recruited 289 apprentices onto the scheme. Five are currently on programme and we are in the process of recruiting more, many have progressed onto Permanent positions with the Trust. Seventeen are now Paramedics with us, twenty are technicians, eight are progressing within the Student Paramedic pathway, four are involved in the training of our staff and eighty-two are employed within our Patient Transport Scheme and other departments.

Director of People, Carla Beechey said: “Apprenticeships are central to assist the Trust to build our future workforce. I would like to thank everyone involved in supporting our apprenticeship schemes and assisting with the development of our staff.”

Education and Apprenticeship Manager, Sophie Cooper said: “We’re so proud of all of our past and present apprentices and it’s so exciting to take the opportunity on National Apprenticeship Week to highlight their hard work, and the development opportunities that we have on offer within the Trust.”

Recruitment Manager, Louise Jones said: “We’re so excited to be marking National Apprenticeship Week and highlighting some of the apprenticeships we currently have available to apply for.

“It’s a common misconception that as a service, we only recruit for Paramedics, but that just is not true. We have a broad range of apprenticeships ranging from our Student Paramedic training course, Motor Vehicle apprentices, Business Admin and much more.

“If you’d like to find out more about roles available at the Trust, you can do so by visiting www.jobs.nhs.uk and searching for West Midlands Ambulance Service  

The Trust will be celebrating National Apprenticeship Week on @OfficialWMAS social media on Facebook, Instagram, X and Threads by sharing the stories of some past and present apprentices and celebrating their hard work and progression with the Trust.

ENDS.

Shaunna Farley – Friday 2nd February 2024 – 8am.

It’s hard to imagine that someone could lose the equivalent of a whole other person in weight, right?

Well, that is the case for Dudley Paramedic, Lee Farley who has lost an impressive 10-stone since starting his Slimming World journey just over two years ago, using Slimming World vouchers sourced through a Trust Health and Wellbeing incentive.

Back in July 2023, Lee made it to the finals of Slimming World’s Man of the Year competition after losing 8-stone and has gone on to reach his brand new target.

Lee said: “When I made it to the finals and had lost 8-stone, I was very much bombarded with questions and queries from my colleagues about how I’d done it, and sign posted them to the Slimming World vouchers from the Health and Wellbeing Being Team. 

If you’ve ever wondered what 10-stone might look like, take a look at this photo of myself and my friend Vanessa, I’ve lost the equivalent of an entire person in weight.

I feel great; I’m so much healthier, fitter and I’m able to do regular exercise which is good for the mind and body. After years of yo-yo dieting I never thought I would get anywhere near my current weight.”

Trust Health and Wellbeing Manager, Manjeet Malhi added: “Lee is such an inspiration, he has worked extraordinarily hard and not given up and we are all so proud of him.

“Since Lee’s award nomination last year, we’ve had more than 60 members of staff utilise a Slimming World voucher, proving how he is a huge inspiration to many of us.”

ENDS.

Murray MacGregor – Thursday 1^st February 2024 – 11.55am.

A motorcyclist has been taken to a major trauma centre after a collision between his bike and a car.

The incident happened near the junction of Claybrook Drive and Milhill Road in the Matchborough area of Redditch at around 5.35pm on Wednesday evening.

An off duty nurse stopped to assist.  Two ambulances, a paramedic officer and a MERIT critical care paramedic were sent to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman, said: “The motorcyclist was found on a grass verge about 10 metres away from the car with the bike in a ditch.

“The man was assessed at the scene before being taken to the ambulance for treatment.  He was assessed by the critical care paramedic before being taken on blue lights to the major trauma centre at Queen Elizaeth Hospital Birmingham – the critical care paramedic travelled with the crew. 

“There were a man and a woman in the car.  Both were taken to The Alexandra Hospital in Redditch as a precaution for further assessment.”

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Murray MacGregor – Thursday 1^st February 2024 – 9.55am.

A patient who suffered significant injuries after a single vehicle crash ended up in a major trauma centre much sooner than they might have thanks to the efforts of an off duty hospital consultant and a group of volunteers.

The man, was involved in a crash on the A480 at Bunns Lane, Moorhampton, near Weobley in Herefordshire at around 5.15pm last night (Wednesday).

The car he was in collided with a tree head on causing significant damage.  By chance an off duty hospital consultant came across the incident soon after it had happened and was able to identify the serious nature of the man’s injuries and alerted the ambulance service.  

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The early insight definitely helped the patient get the specialist care that he needed sooner than he might have had it.

“We already had an ambulance and paramedic officer en-route but then also dispatched a BASICS emergency doctor from MARS (Mercia Accident Rescue Service) and an enhanced care team from Midlands Air Ambulance as well.

“Because it was dark, the air crew from the Midlands Air Ambulance at Strensham responded by car to the scene.  However, when it was established that the patient would need to go to a major trauma centre, Midlands Air Ambulance activated one of it’s CELLS schemes so that a helicopter could be sent as well.

“Community Emergency Lit Landing Sites (CELLS) were set up in 2015 by the charity and enables trained local volunteers to use portable light units to allow the helicopter to land at night in remote locations, in this case at Aylestone Hill Park in Hereford, just 10miles away.

“Travelling by air meant that the patient got to the specialist trauma teams at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham in around half the time it would have taken to travel by road, even using blue lights and sirens.”

You can find out more about CELLS sites at https://www.midlandsairambulance.com/clinical/cells/

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Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 24^th January 2024 – 2.20pm

A man has died following a house fire in Staffordshire this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Peel Street, Stafford at 5.53am and sent one ambulance and a paramedic officer to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival, crews discovered one patient, a man, who had been rescued from the house by fire service colleagues.

“Sadly, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

ENDS

Amy Stubbs – Tuesday 23^rd January 2024 – 11.20am

A man has died after a collision involving two cars near Worcester this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 5.35am to Worcester Road in Hanley Castle and sent an ambulance, paramedic officer, a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found two patients.

“The driver of the first car, a man, was in a critical condition and ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support.

“Sadly, despite everyone’s best efforts, he could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene.

“The driver of the second car, also a man, was removed from the vehicle with the assistance of fire colleagues before being treated by medics for serious injuries.

“He was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for further treatment.”

ENDS

Elena Lewis – 19th January 2024 – 3.20pm.

West Midlands Ambulance Service’s very own Clinical Validation Team Paramedic, Zoe Mcintosh is set to take on the Gladiators this Saturday (20^th) on BBC1 at 5:50pm.

After a rigorous selection process, Zoe was cast as a contender alongside a handful of other applicants, from thousands of people who applied.

Zoe, who has worked for the Trust since 2018, said: “I wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps as he applied to take part in the original Gladiators in 1998, and the whole experience was amazing.

“The filming took place in front of thousands. Fortunately, my family, friends and work colleagues were there to cheer me on.

“I took part in several games during filming and my strength and speed was truly tested against the Gladiators. It was so much fun and a great experience. I hope everyone enjoys watching the show and I make all of WMAS proud.”

Zoe started her career as a paramedic in Staffordshire, before moving to one of WMAS’s Emergency Operations Centres, in the Black Country, to work in the Clinical Validation Team. The team triage some category 2 and all category 3 and 4 calls. This is a vital part of our Trust and helps provide patients with the right care at the right time for their medical need.

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Notes to Editors

Credit to BBC for supplying group photo.

Jamie Arrowsmith – Monday 15^th January 2024 – 5pm

A woman has died following an RTC in Birmingham this morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to Lordswood Road in Harborne at 11.40am and sent two ambulances, two paramedic officers and a MERIT trauma doctor with a Critical Care Paramedic, to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival crews discovered one patient, a woman, who was the pedestrian.

“She was found to have suffered serious injuries in the collision and ambulance crews immediately began administering specialist trauma care.

“However, despite their best efforts it sadly became apparent nothing could be done to save the woman and she was confirmed dead at the scene.”

ENDS

Jamie Arrowsmith – Monday 15^th January 2024 – 3pm

Two men have died following a two-car RTC in Worcestershire in the early hours of yesterday morning.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to the A44, near Egdon, Worcester, at 12.32am and sent three ambulances, two paramedic officers, a MERIT trauma doctor with a critical care paramedic, and the Midlands Air Ambulance Critical Care Car to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “On arrival crews discovered four patients. One of whom, a man who was driving one of the cars, was found to have suffered serious injuries in the incident. Sadly, it quickly became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.

“A second man, also a driver, was found to be in a critical condition. Ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support but sadly, despite their best efforts, he was also confirmed dead at the scene.

“A further man, and a woman, were assessed and treated for injuries not believed to be serious before being taken to Worcester Royal Hospital.”

ENDS

Amy Stubbs – Thursday 11^th January 2024 – 11am

A man has sadly died after a collision in Shrewsbury yesterday afternoon.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 3.21pm to Longden Road and sent two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulances from Cosford and Tatenhill to the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman says: “On arrival, crews found a car had come off the road and ended up on its roof.

“The driver, a man, was in a critical condition and ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support.

“Unfortunately, despite everyone’s best efforts, he could not be saved and was confirmed dead at the scene.

“There were no other patients.”

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Shaunna Farley – Wednesday 10th January 2024 – 4.30pm.

A man has sustained life-threatening injuries following a road traffic collision involving one car in Amblecote.

West Midlands Ambulance Service was called at 12.56pm to a car that had collided with a wall at the junction of Kirkstone Way and Ambleside Drive in Amblecote, Brierley Hill. One ambulance, a paramedic officer, a MERIT trauma doctor and critical care paramedic and a passing-by Patient Transport Service crew attended the scene.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “Upon arrival we found a man who was the driver of the car. He was assessed by ambulance staff and had sustained life-threatening injuries.

“He received advanced trauma care from ambulance staff which continued en route to Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he was conveyed for further treatment.”

ENDS.  

Jamie Arrowsmith – Wednesday 10^th January 2024 – 11.30am.

West Midlands Ambulance Service is on the lookout for keen and willing recruits to join our band of volunteer lifesavers as a Community First Responder (CFR).

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 Hereford and Worcester, Arden, Shropshire, the Black Country, Staffordshire and Birmingham.

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 fine out more information, please visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search for job reference C9217-CFR01a-2024.

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