South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) is appealing for members of the public in north and west Oxfordshire to step forward and volunteer as community first responders (CFRs) – local volunteers who provide vital help in emergencies before an ambulance arrives.
CFRs are trained volunteers who attend life-threatening emergencies such as cardiac arrests, symptoms of stroke and patients struggling to breathe, as well as being sent to elderly patients who have fallen, welfare checks and other less time critical emergencies. They are dispatched by SCAS while an ambulance is on its way and, because they live in the same community, they can arrive within minutes to provide immediate care.
The geographical area SCAS is seeking new volunteers covers from Faringdon up to Banbury, and across to Bicester. Each local scheme has been running for a number of years and is looking to grow its membership to help build on the incredible levels of commitment from current and former responders.
The South Central Ambulance Charity fully funds the recruitment, training and ongoing costs of the CFR programme. This includes uniform, medical kit and equipment for CFRs. As well as learning new first aid skills that they can immediately put to use in their local communities, volunteers can also help with fundraising and community engagement events to help raise awareness, and vital monies, for the charity, as well as providing medical cover at local events.
Dave Lester, community engagement and training officer for Oxfordshire, said:
“Every second counts in a medical emergency. Community first responders can be the difference between life and death, arriving within minutes and starting essential care before the ambulance gets there. We desperately need more people across Oxfordshire to join our team – if you are willing to learn new skills and want to make a real difference to people in your community, please get in touch.”
Sarah Callaghan, volunteer manager at the South Central Ambulance Charity, added:
“Our charity is proud to support community first responders by funding their training, uniforms and equipment. CFRs are ordinary people doing something extraordinary – giving their time to save lives where they live. By becoming a volunteer, you’ll be joining a supportive team and making an incredible impact on local communities.”
What is a community first responder (CFR)?
- Local responder: CFRs live in the areas they cover, arriving quickly in emergencies.
- Full training provided: Volunteers receive comprehensive training funded by the SCAS Charity.
- Flexible volunteering: CFRs can fit shifts around their own lives and commitments.
- Life-changing role: The skills and confidence gained stay with volunteers for life.
SCAS is calling for new CFR volunteers across Oxfordshire right now.
How to Apply
To find out more about becoming a community first responder or to apply, please visit: scascharity.org.uk
Q&A with Dave Lester, community engagement and training officer for Oxfordshire
Q: Do I need previous medical experience to become a community first responder?
A: Not at all. We welcome people from all walks of life. You just need to be over 18, hold a full driving licence, and be willing to learn. We provide all the training you need.
Q: What does the application process involve?
A: Once you’ve applied via the above link or directly on the charity website, you’ll receive an initial phone call followed by a face-to-face interview of around 60 minutes. We’ll need to conduct a full DBS check and ask you to lift and carry some of the equipment you’ll use as well as carry out two minutes of CPR (on a dummy!) to check your fitness levels.
Q: How much time do I need to give?
A: It’s very flexible. We recommend 20 hours a month to ensure your skills set is used, but you can choose shifts that fit around your lifestyle, work, and family commitments.
Q: What sort of emergencies do CFRs attend?
A: Typically, life-threatening emergencies where every second matters – for example, cardiac arrests, breathing difficulties, or chest pains. CFRs can start vital treatment while the ambulance is on its way. Not all calls are so time critical, however, and responders also go to different types of patients, such as elderly people who have fallen at home and need help getting help.
Q: What support will I receive?
A: All responders receive an induction day and a four-day (16 hour min.) course which provides them with the Level 3 Award for First Responders on Scene (AFROS) qualification, which is a nationally recognised qualification. Every year, volunteers undertake a four-hour re-qualification session, there are regular training events throughout the year and you’ll have the chance to go out with an ambulance crew to observe their work.
Q: Why should I volunteer?
A: You’ll be saving lives and making a direct difference to your local community. Many of our volunteers say it’s one of the most rewarding things they’ve ever done.
Key stats
- Currently 91 CFRs in Oxfordshire
- Longest serving CFR volunteer – 21 years
- In 2025, CFRs in Oxfordshire have supported SCAS with over 19,000 hours
- Currently there are 11 opportunities in Oxfordshire