Volunteers needed!
The setting up of the scheme was a magnificent community achievement, but now that it is up and running, more people are needed to train as First Responders, act as committee members and come up with good fundraising ideas to meet the continuing costs of the scheme.
All volunteers are required to complete an application for a Criminal Records Bureau enhanced level clearance. Applications by individuals that have previous criminal convictions, including serious motoring offences (i.e. drink driving) will be declined. Applicants who when applying do not disclose details of previous offences (even at more minor levels) will be declined.
Volunteer Responders can be male or female, aged from 18 to 70, must have access to a car and be able to attend emergency calls from either their home or place of work in Debenham or the surrounding area as soon as they are received, in a similar way to which retained firefighters or volunteer RNLI staff or other volunteer emergency services operate. A key factor is that a First Responder must be able to work together with others as part of a community team.
Each Responder normally commits a certain amount of time per week to be on duty, on a rota basis. While a Responder is on call they can continue with their normal day to day activities while in the local area, but must be ready to drop everything and attend a call should one arise while they are on duty. While on duty the responder carries the medical equipment with them in their car, plus an Ambulance Service mobile phone to alert them to call outs.
A volunteer Responder needs to be reliable and trust worthy, good under pressure, able to remain calm in emergency situations, be caring when dealing with patients and have a good level of physical fitness. Previous medical or first aid experience is an advantage, but is not essential, as extensive initial and on-going training and assessment is provided by East of England Ambulance Service.
If you are interested in finding out more about joining Debenham First Responders please contact us. Alternatively you are welcome to come along to one of our monthly meetings held at Dove cottage (next to the Church). See the diary page for dates.
