HEYBRIDGE COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS       

WHO ARE THE FIRST RESPONDERS ?

SPECIAL PEOPLE

The butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker! Whatever you do, you could be a First Responder. You need to be 18 years old and you would expect to retire by the age of 70. You need your own transport and you must be willing to commit time both to training and being on call. You do not need to know any first aid, but you must be willing to learn and confident to apply your knowledge.

You are also a special person because you really care about others.

LOCAL GROUPS

First Responders operate in local groups. The Heybridge Group currently has 12 active members and a few others who will return to active duty when their circumstances permit. This is a stable strength for the Group but more trained members would improve the service that we offer to the community.

The Group covers an area of a few miles around Heybridge, including villages such as Great Totham. Members need to be based in this area during their time on call. Other groups cover neighbouring areas.

VOLUNTEERS

First Responders are all volunteers. They receive no payment for their work nor any expenses. There is no uniform other than the high visibility jacket that is supplied. All equipment is provided by the Group or the Ambulance Service.

The East of England Ambulance Service is responsible for all Groups in the area. It trains and tests volunteers and lays down a code of conduct for them. It also provides the reassurance of full support for any treatment given according to the training provided.

THE PROFESSIONALS

The regular crews of ambulance service vehicles are highly trained professionals. First Responders are not a substitute for these people. We are simply there to support them by arriving quickly at the scene of an incident and taking whatever immediate action is needed. Regular crews will take over the situation as soon as they arrive, though they may ask the Responder to assist.

The Professionals and the First Responders are part of the same team dedicated to patient care.

SUPPORTERS

Most members maintain their training in order to continue their periods on duty, and they provide the vital nucleus of the Group. Some people reach a stage when they wish to retire from active duty; some may want to support the Group but feel unable to undertake the training or carry out the duties involved.

There is still a place for such supporters, assisting with the administration of the Group, promoting its activities, fund raising or simply participating in social events. Everyone has a contribution to make.