Community first responder group to reform in Wells-next-the-Sea

The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) is holding an event this Saturday (31^st October) to mark the reforming of a group of community first responders (CFRs) in Wells-next-the-Sea.

The socially distanced event takes place from 10am to 4pm at The Maltings, Quayside, in the north Norfolk seaside town and anyone who wants to find out more about becoming a CFR is welcome.

CFRs are volunteers who work alongside colleagues from the ambulance service and respond to situations within their local community where the ambulance may take longer to arrive than the critical first few minutes following a 999 call.

All volunteers are trained by EEAST to deal with life threatening situations, ranging from cardiac arrest, chest pains and stroke to fits, falls, breathing difficulties and severe diabetic attacks.

CFRs carry an oxygen supply and defibrillator enabling them to deal with the patient immediately and to continue doing so until paramedics arrive at the scene.

Andrew Barlow, community response manager at EEAST for Norfolk, Waveney and Suffolk, said: “CFRs provide a really valuable service within their local communities, ensuring that patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible. In certain situations, a CFR being on scene first can mean the difference between life and death.

“The reforming of this group in Wells-next-the-Sea will hopefully increase awareness of this vital role and increase our numbers of volunteers who come from all walks of life but all with the desire to help their community.”