What are Community First Responders?
Community First Responders (CFRs) make the difference when minutes matter.
Community First Responders are volunteers who belong to local schemes. They attend 999 emergency calls in their own community. In the East Midlands, Community First Responders are dispatched by the EMAS Emergency Operations Centre in the same way as an ambulance.
Because Community First Responders live in the local community, they can often arrive at the scene of the emergency much faster than an ambulance. If they arrive first on scene, Community First Responders can provide assessment and treatment for the patient before the arrival of an ambulance.
Join a CFR scheme
EMAS works with partners across the region to set up and deliver Community First Responder schemes.
To find opportunities in your area, visit:
https://east-midlands-ambulance-service-nhs-trust.goassemble.com/opportunities
Training
You do not need any prior first aid or medical training to enrol as a CFR.
All new CFRs complete a bespoke training package, including basic life support, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and medical gasses, and patient assessment skills.
Personal requirements
CFRs are expected to provide a minimum of 16 hours per month on call.
You must also meet the following requirements:
- Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
- Full UK driving licence held for more than one year with no more than three penalty points
- Physical fitness and communication skills
- Aged over 18.