No government funding only local fundraising and donations. A CFR scheme is a group of volunteers in a local community that respond to 999 calls in conjunction with the West Midland Ambulance Service. Each scheme has a Co-ordinator and is supported by the West Midlands Ambulance Service Community Response Department. Community First Responders (CFR’s) are volunteers who give their time freely to h
elp save lives in their local area. Responders are everyday members of the public from different backgrounds, who are trained by the Ambulance Service in the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) and Basic Life Support (BLS). They also provide early vital interventions and treatment to patients suffering life threatening problems, ensuring the best chance of recovery. Emergencies can include:
• Cardiac Arrest
• Chest pains
• Breathing difficulties
• Unconsciousness
• Seizures
• Stroke
• Traumatic Emergencies
• Diabetic Problems
• Paediatrics
Being available to attend these emergencies not only provides support to the local community as a whole, but also to the patient with treatment. It ensures both patients and relatives feel reassured whilst an ambulance is on its way. In order to be a community first responder you must
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be able to achieve a satisfactory standard of proficiency after training
• Be able to work as a team
• Have a reasonable level of physical fitness
• Be extremely reliable and trust worthy
• Work well under pressure and remain calm
• Have a caring sympathetic approach to people
Prospective responders also undergo a Disclosure & Barring Service Check (DBS) which is carried out by the Ambulance Service following a successful interview. Previous experience isn’t necessary as all training will be provided by the West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.
