The two Dales have a team of behind the scenes volunteers helping to reassure patients when they request an ambulance. The first few minutes are critical and if effective treatment can be provided within that time, lives can be saved.
The Community First Responder Scheme is a partnership between the Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) and local groups of volunteers living within the community. As authorised volunteers for the ambulance service, we work as a dedicated team whose aim is to reduce the number of pre-hospital deaths in Yorkshire.
We are trained by YAS in basic life support skills, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), the use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) and the administration of oxygen. When a 999 call is received by YAS, an ambulance response is despatched. At the same time, a Community First Responder, on call in the area, can be alerted and asked to assist to ensure help reaches the patient as quickly as possible.
The Two Dales CFRs respond to selected emergency calls, typically to critically ill patients who have breathing, heart or other medical illnesses. We are not sent to children or to any dangerous situations and receive full support from YAS.
We are now looking for local folk to get involved with the Two Dales Community Responder Scheme. You do not need previous medical training, just a willingness to volunteer to be on call from home for just a few hours a month, we ask for an average of 10 hours per week. You must be over the age of 18 years old, have your own vehicle and hold a full driving licence.
Contact our team Coordinator Pete McKay tel. 07870199513 or e mail Petemckay100@gmail.com