Keeping up with the Joneses could prove a lifesaver in Caerphilly.
Dilwyn Jones became one of the Welsh Ambulance Service’s 1,000 voluntary Community First Responders (CFRs) in 2006.
They provide basic first aid and defibrillation in the vital few minutes before paramedics or an emergency ambulance arrives – greatly improving chances of a full recovery.
But it’s become a family affair because Dilwyn’s been joined by daughter Rebecca and son Will who, after training, ‘went live’ as a responder on his 18th birthday.
First Responder Officer Tony Rossetti wants more recruits in Caerphilly County Borough and pointed out: “Every second counts when you are trying to save someone’s life and Community First Responder schemes are hugely beneficial in assisting the ambulance service to provide the best possible pre-hospital care for patients.”
Civil servant Dilwyn commented: “Having done First Aid for a number of years, becoming a CFR has enabled me to use my skills to support my local area. I’m so proud to have both my daughter and son also contributing in such a positive way to their community.”
CFRs don’t replace rapid response paramedics or emergency ambulances but support the patient until it arrives.
Rebecca said: “I became a CFR after seeing the benefit of having locally trained volunteers in life saving skills within the local community. It’s a great feeling to be able to help neighbours, friends and members of the public in this way.”
Her brother William added: “I can’t think of a better way to serve and help my community than to become a CFR and perhaps one day be on hand to save a life.”
Anyone interested in becoming a First Responder must be over 18 and physically fit with a clean UK driving licence and clear Criminal Records Bureau and Occupational Health checks before registration for around 30 hours of training locally.
Call 01633 626262 or email amb_first.responder.south@wales.nhs.uk or visit the Trust website at www.ambulance.wales.uk for more information