Watford volunteer responder has helped over 1,000 patients

Alan Cartz, who is team leader of the Watford Community First Responder (CFR) group, began volunteering for the ambulance service eight years ago, and since then has helped over 1,000 patients in the area, in their time of need.

Alan's volunteer journey at EEAST began after retiring from a distinguished career as a compliance officer in financial services, and an extraordinary 40 years of service with the Metropolitan Special Constabulary, where he rose to the rank of Chief Inspector.

Since joining EEAST, Alan has gained additional qualifications including blue light ambulance driving and mental health first aid training. Alan volunteers around 450 hours each year, which is over 37 hours a month or 8 and a half hours a week.

He said: "When I retired from full-time work, it felt like a natural progression to join the East of England Ambulance Service. I've always had an interest in helping people, and becoming a Community First Responder allowed me to continue doing just that.

"Reaching this milestone of having helped over 1,000 people is incredibly rewarding. It's humbling to know how many people I've been able to help over the years. I truly enjoy being a Community First Responder."

When arriving at the scene of a medical emergency, Alan assesses the patient and conducts observations while waiting for ambulance crews to arrive. He is a familiar face among local ambulance crews, and he's often greeted with a warm "Hello Alan" from paramedics who know him well.

Kathleen Bowman, EEAST's Community Response Manager for Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and West Essex, said: "Alan's commitment and compassion demonstrate the very best of what it means to be a volunteer Community First Responder. His achievement is more than just a number – it represents lives saved and patients helped in Watford and the surrounding area. We are incredibly thankful for his service."

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering with EEAST as a Community First Responder, or in another volunteer role, you can visit this page on our website.