Tiptree students back local lifesavers with donation to local Community First Responders

The donation was part of the school’s participation in the First Give Programme, a national initiative that encourages students to engage with social issues and support local charities.

As part of the programme, seven tutor groups competed to win a £1,000 grant for their chosen charity by delivering persuasive presentations and carrying out social action projects.

After researching community needs and hearing from several organisations, one tutor group, 10S, selected the Tiptree Community First Responder group as their chosen charity. This followed a compelling presentation of the work CFRs do and a basic life support demonstration that left a lasting impression.

The Tiptree Community First Responders were chosen as the overall winners and beneficiaries of the £1,000 grant. An additional £510 was raised through a school raffle and bake sale which was generously supported by students and local businesses.

The funds will be used to purchase essential equipment and two new kit bags, helping the team respond more effectively to emergencies.

Founded 28 years ago by Kevin Kelly and Lee Kerrison, who remain active members, the Tiptree Community First Responder team consists of six dedicated volunteers.

Working in partnership with the East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST), they respond to around 22 emergency 999 calls each month in their local community, often arriving before an ambulance to provide critical care.

The group has since returned to Thurstable School to deliver further CPR and basic life support training, reinforcing their commitment to community education.

To help spread awareness, students filmed the training and shared the videos on TikTok and Facebook, promoting the vital work of the CFRs and underscoring the importance of learning life-saving skills.

The first responders also hope to run awareness sessions in the village, mainly on Saturday mornings, helping residents build confidence in using defibrillators installed by the Parish Council.

Kevin Kelly, one of the founding members, said:

“It was a great honour to receive the grant as part of the First Give Programme and to see the Year 10 students so engaged in the work that we do and enthusiastic to learn vital life-saving skills.

“This money will be put to good use in buying equipment for our CFR group that will help us support our local communities.

“We will hopefully have trained more potential lifesavers as well and we are very thankful for Thurstable School’s support.”

Mrs Liz Starmer, Director of Character, Head of PSHEC and German teacher at Thurstable School, said:

“The First Give programme was a fantastic celebration of our students’ hard work, compassion, and creativity.

“Each tutor group demonstrated a deep understanding of the issues facing our community and showed real commitment through their fundraising and social action projects. The judges were incredibly impressed by the professionalism of the presentations.

“We’re especially proud of 10S for winning the £1,000 grant for the Tiptree Community First Responders – a truly deserving charity. It’s been inspiring to see our students realise the power they have to make a difference.”

The partnership between Thurstable School and the Tiptree CFR group is a shining example of how young people can make a real impact by supporting those who dedicate their time to saving lives.

As part of Volunteers’ Week, EEAST is actively seeking new volunteers to join its dedicated team and help make a difference in their communities. If you would like to train and volunteer as a community first responder, EEAST would love to hear from you.

There is an online application form on EEAST’s website. If you have any further questions, you can email the team on CFR@eastamb.nhs.uk

The Tiptree Community First Responders also have a JustGiving page for anyone interested in giving a donation.