We are all volunteers. Continual training is provided by South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust [SWASFT] to ensure that all responders keep their skills and expertise updated. The Responders are funded entirely through the generosity of individuals from the Wiveliscombe community and surrounding area who provide all needs including medical equipment and uniforms.
As the South West of England is predominantly rural it is not always possible for an ambulance to reach people in Wiveliscombe and surrounding areas quickly. So, SWASFT train the Community Responders to respond to any life-threatening emergency and deliver appropriate care until the emergency ambulance arrives. Responders are trained in basic life support and are equipped with defibrillators, oxygen, first aid equipment, lifting equipment and communications.
The Wiveliscombe Community First Responders operate a 24 hours/ day, 365 days/ year rota to ensure that a minimum of one trained First Responder is on duty and available at all times. Emergencies include unconsciousness (due to injury or medical problem), chest pain and breathing difficulties either in the home or public/work place. An emergency ambulance is always dispatched to any incident attended by a responder.
We also attend non-injury falls in our area and using a specialised lifting chair, we can get the appropriate patient back on their feet again and life back to normal - without requiring an ambulance.
We teach basic life support to local schools and youth groups [Scouts, I-the-Mix, etc]. We also run a FREE course [which only takes 1 hour] to teach any group of people how to manage an unconscious non-breathing patient [using CPR and use of an AED defib], If you would like to arrange a course, then PLEASE do contact us.
You can follow us on FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/WiveliscombeCommunityFirstResponders
If you are interested in joining the group, then contact Paul Barrington 07817 905060 or email barrington-heaven@sky.com.
We always welcome new recruits and offer support and training ourselves. Also, if you fancy a career as a paramedic, then this is the best way to check this is the career for you - and a good way into the Ambulance service.
We received the SWASFT County award in November, 2017 for outstanding commitment to the Community and are always striving to support our community and neighbouring areas.
