Our amazing volunteers support EMAS and make a real difference in their communities. Over the past few weeks they’ve been out and about across the region, giving up their time and lending their skills to wherever it’s needed most. Here’s a round up of what some groups have been up to.
Leicestershire Community Trainers support local businesses
Last month marked the launch of a new collaboration between the EMAS Community Training team, the West Leicestershire Community First Responders scheme and Triumph Motorcycles in Hinckley, offering CPR and defibrillator awareness sessions to employees at Triumph’s Hinckley Headquarters. Alongside practical skills, staff learned how to recognise cardiac arrest quickly, understand the 'Chain of Survival' and discover how everyone can play a part in saving a life. The sessions saw staff highly engaged, asking great questions and getting hands on experience with CPR and training defibrillators. A brilliant example of partnership working to build confidence and community resilience to the workplace. Thanks to West Leicestershire Community First Responders Alex Twist and Anthony Parkes for organising and running these sessions.
Nottingham Community Trainers teach the next generation of lifesavers
A team of EMAS community trainers supported a number of police engagement and crime prevention events in Nottingham over the February half term at the Indian Community Centre in Sherwood Rise and the Vine Community Centre in Hyson Green. Aimed at young people in the community, the events were designed to break down barriers, improve community relations, and prevent crime. Our community trainers led vital CPR skills sessions, teaching the next generation of lifesavers the all important skill.
Derby community first responders support The Smithfield Defib Campaign
Derby Ambulance First Responders has stepped in to support fundraising efforts led by The Smithfield pub after a Derby County supporter collapsed there shortly before a match against West Bromwich Albion at Pride Park on 23 January 2026. The response from the local community has been overwhelming, with the appeal raising more than £3,700 well above the original £1,500 target required to purchase and install a single defibrillator. Derby Ambulance First Responders are now working alongside the pub and local supporters to ensure the funds are used to deliver the greatest possible benefit to the community. The volunteer charity is supporting the project by sourcing the automated external defibrillator (AED) equipment, helping identify suitable locations for installation, and delivering CPR and defibrillator awareness training to staff, customers and nearby businesses.
Rutland Community First Responders receive High Sheriff Award
Congratulations are in order for the Rutland Community First Responders after they were presented with a High Sheriff Award from Richard Chesterfield, the High Sheriff of Rutland, for their commitment to their community and to recognise their valuable service to the residents of Rutland. In his role, the High Sheriff is very supportive of volunteers and values them all.