From little acorns mighty oaks grow!

From our very first conversations in December 2023 to going live in September 2024, we are proud to say that we now have SIX qualified Community First Responders. Our dedicated volunteers are based across the area we cover: 1 in Hopton, 2 in Hixon and 3 in the Haywoods. The aim of a CFR is to respond to 999 calls passed to us by the West Midlands Ambulance Service, providing vital initial care and assessment until paramedics arrive. This is achieved by working in a 10-mile radius of the CFR car’s current location, helping ensure faster care for our rural communities.

To coincide with West Midlands Ambulance Service launching its annual recruitment campaign for new CFRs in January, we will also be recruiting.

Our goal is to grow to a minimum of 10 responders, which will allow greater flexibility for shifts and more hours of coverage for our rural community.

Look out for us during January when there will be a “Come and meet your Community First Responders” evening at a village hall near you!

The invitation is open to everyone, to find out a bit more about life as a First Responder. If you have ever wondered how to carry out CPR in an emergency or may be a bit concerned over having to use one of the many defibrillators dotted around the area, come along and watch a demonstration of both techniques. 

For more information email:     h i x o n a n d a r e a c f r @ g m a i l . c o m

or               https://www.wmas.nhs.uk/becoming-a-cfr/