Ambulance service appeals for more volunteer lifesavers in Shropshire
Shropshire's ambulance service has launched an appeal for volunteer lifesavers in towns and villages across the county.
West Midlands Ambulance Service wants to train a fresh group of Community First Responders (CFRs).
These are members of the public trained to use lifesaving equipment such as defibrillators in an emergency.
Ambulance bosses today said volunteers are particularly needed in Stiperstones, Pontesbury, Minsterley, Wem, Ellesmere, Alveley and Claverley.
CFRs will be called by the ambulance service's control room to medical emergencies in their area while an ambulance is on its way.
Community response manager Noel Orbell said they were vital in life-threatening situations, particularly in the case of a cardiac arrest, stroke and trauma when every minute counts.
He 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 or six 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."
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'.
Michelle Brotherton, West Midlands Ambulance Service general manager for the West Mercia area said: "We really support Community First Responders and call upon them to help their local community.
"They are an integral part of the ambulance service. The work they do is outstanding and is greatly valued. It's about giving something back to their local community. In a life-threatening case every minute makes a difference."
For more information call Mr Orbell on 07980 094808, or the CFR admin office on (01384) 215855 or e-mail CFRAdmin@wmas.nhs.uk
