Community First Responder schemes are another area of development, which has been helped by FLEET’s funds. The first responder groups in Cornwall were set up in 2001 and in 2008 FLEET worked in conjunction with the Community engagement team to help set up a further 15 groups across the county. These trained members of the public form groups in what are normally rural or isolated areas and are given training sessions to equip them to deal with certain incidents like cardiac arrests or choking. They are often first on the scene and provide a quick response before an ambulance arrives. Providing training, equipment or both to some of these groups, the charity helps to support the Cornish responders in any way possible. More information about becoming a First Responder can be found on the South West Ambulance Service NHS Trust Website. http://www.swast.nhs.uk/responders/ |