A TEAM of volunteer medics is celebrating after four new members were recruited.
Tattenhall community first responders (CFR), which was formed in 2005, now has nine active members serving the community and surrounding rural areas. The group has attended more than 200 calls since being formed.
The group works week day evenings and weekends and has a dedicated vehicle, achieved through fundraising.
CFR groups work with North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust (NWAS) and respond to emergency calls prior to the arrival of an ambulance.
Each CFR undertakes a seven weeks’ training with NWAS to gain a nationally recognised qualification in community responding.
Parish councils, businesses and other community groups have shown their appreciation for the Tattenhall CFR team by collectively donating £1,500. The team will use this funding to maintain the running of the vehicle.
If you would like to set up a First Responder scheme in your community, or join an existing scheme, contact: Rob Hussey on 0151 296 1931 or 07768032737; email: robert.hussey@nwas.nhs.uk
For more information visit: www.nwas.nhs.uk
Gary Ashby, Community Paramedic for Milton Green Station said: “CFRs are trained and activated by NWAS to attend certain emergency calls where time can make the difference between life and death. The responder provides reassurance and care until the ambulance arrives, usually only a few minutes later.
“NWAS provides all equipment, training and uniforms to CFR groups, it does not provide vehicles so raising money to keep the community vehicle running in this instance is essential for this group.
“We will continue to develop our CFR teams across the region as the reassuring role they play is one of great importance.”
