Could you be a lifesaver? Emergency group appeals for New Forest volunteers

LIFESAVERS are being sought as part of a recruitment drive launched by Community First Responder teams across New Forest towns and villages.

A appeal has been put out for more volunteers to join the service, which relies on donations to keep going, particularly in the areas of New Milton, Brockenhurst, Ringwood and Bransgore.

The CFRs operate locally under the umbrella of South Central Ambulance Service, attending emergency calls and providing basic life-support until the arrival of an ambulance. They are also trained in the use of a defibrillator.

Recruitment co-ordinator Jackie Russell said: “Like most voluntary groups, people come and go as their availability and lifestyle changes, so there is a constant need to seek out new volunteers.

“Before becoming a CFR, none of our team had any previous medical experience. Our volunteers include retired and working people, but with the superb training and support we get from the ambulance service, most people could do this.”

New Milton responder Steve Shepherd added: “To be able to serve your own community and do your best for someone at a time when they need prompt assistance is very rewarding.

“Colleagues in the wider family of community first responders are doing this daily and really making a difference to the health and well being of people across the New Forest and elsewhere.”

Denis Hann is the only responder serving Ringwood, and said he would be appreciative of some help to develop what he said is a crucial service.

“Responder schemes save lives,” he said. “The reward for the individual is knowing that they have done their bit to save a life, and I would say it is the best feeling in the world.

“But CFRs don’t just deal with cardiac arrests. There are many conditions they assist with - accidents and trauma, breathing difficulties, stroke, chest pain, diabetic emergencies, the list goes on.

“Very often though, the best treatment is the reassuring presence of a caring first responder who is there just in case and who has skills to help and a direct link to the ambulance control room if needed.”

Anyone joining up as a CFR attends an initial five-day training course spread over several weekends and weekday evenings. They are then asked to be available to volunteer for at least 20 hours a month, and must also attend a one-day refresher course every year.

Volunteers can choose the times to fit around their other commitments and they respond from home or work.

Additional training modules are available for those who wish to learn more, enhance their skills, or perhaps are considering a career in the ambulance service. A nationally recognised qualification in Community First Responding is available.

New Forest CFRs have been recognised for their service on a number of occasions.

Honours bestowed upon members include a British Empire Medal, an accolade for Outstanding Service to the people of the New Forest, an Outstanding Service Award from the National Association of Ambulance Chief Executives, and two SCAS Volunteer of the Year decorations.

To be eligible, volunteers must be over 18, have use of a car, be of good character and be fit enough to carry the kitbag and conduct CPR on arrival if necessary.

Anyone interested should call 0800 587 0207 or email cfr@scas.nhs.uk

To specifically volunteer for Ringwood, Brockenhurst, New Milton or Bransgore, call 0844 500 9699.