Volunteer community first responders (CFRs) supporting South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) are celebrating the arrival of a new dynamic response vehicle (DRV), a significant addition that will help them provide even better care to patients across the local community.
CFRs are members of the public trained to support SCAS primarily by responding to medical emergencies and sometimes providing lifesaving first aid to patients before paramedics arrive.
The 1,200-strong team also assist with ongoing patient care at the scene and operate across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire and Oxfordshire. They are funded solely by South Central Ambulance Charity, which provides equipment, training and is responsible for the entire CFR vehicle fleet.
Due to the locality of volunteers, they often arrive before an ambulance to many 999 calls, with the CFR able to administer potentially lifesaving pre-hospital treatment.
The new DRV represents a major step forward for the local CFR team. Unlike using personal vehicles, the DRV has been specially equipped to carry a wider range of clinical equipment and emergency supplies, enabling responders to deliver an enhanced level of care while remaining highly visible within the community.
The vehicle also provides a professional and recognisable presence, making it easier for members of the public to identify community first responders at emergency scenes and community events.
Every call attended by a CFR helps support the wider ambulance service by providing immediate care, gathering valuable clinical information for ambulance crews and, where appropriate, reducing pressure on frontline emergency resources. Most importantly, early intervention can make a real difference to patient outcomes, particularly in time-critical emergencies such as cardiac arrest, chest pain, breathing difficulties and stroke.
The new DRV has been made possible through the continued support of the local community and partners who recognise the value that community first responders bring to emergency care.
Jake Carpenter, CFR Coordinator for Andover, said:
“Our volunteers give their time freely to help people in their greatest moment of need. Having a dedicated response vehicle means we can carry more equipment, respond more effectively, and continue providing the highest standard of care to our community. It also raises awareness of the community first responder role and helps people understand the difference we can make before an ambulance arrives.”
Anyone interested in supporting the South Central Ambulance Charity can view opportunities online at https://scas.goassemble.com/opportunities
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