The South Brent First Responder Scheme started on the 15th January 2006.
Why do we need a Community First Responder Scheme?
We know that in many medical emergencies and after accidents, people can die within the first few minutes. We also know that if certain simple but critical interventions can be performed within those first few minutes that life can be saved and disability reduced. This is especially the case for heart attacks, choking and injuries that have caused someone to lose consciousness.
Even the best ambulance service in the world cannot get to every 999 call within the first few minutes. In fact the Ambulance Services get to most calls very quickly. But occasionally it may not be quick enough - especially in countryside areas like ours or large commercial complexes. There is a period of time between the 999 call being made and the ambulance arriving which little or no emergency care takes place. This time period has been called the 'therapeutic vacuum'. We know that community based first responders can fill this vacuum and provide essential simple treatment in those crucial first few minutes.
Community First Responders work alongside the Ambulance Services and provide the best pre-hospital care that is possible.
- Total 999 calls attended in 2006 was 105
- Total 999 calls attended in 2007 was 134
- Total 999 calls attended in 2008 was 102
- Total 999 calls attended in 2009 was 77
- Total Calls Attended in 2010 was 61
Your local Responder Group is made up of unpaid volunteers who give up their free time to regularly train and attend emergencies on a shift rota. The Equipment is supplied and serviced by the Ambulance Service, but the day to day running, equipment replacements and upgrades are funded by donations.
We try to provide as close to a 24/7 cover as we can.
If you dial 999, you will probably have a First Responder arrive before the Ambulance.
If you live in the South Brent area and are intrested in joining our team, or would like to make a much needed donation you can contact us by phone on 01392 261559 or Email us by clicking this link. Or write to;
South Western Ambulance Services NHS Trust
Trust Headquarters
Unit 3 Abbey Court
Sowton Industrial Estate
Exeter
EX2 7HY
Our thanks go out to the following for their support in providing equipment, and fundraising for the Team.
All monies raised go directly back into providing the front line emergency responce for the Parish of South Brent.
South Hams Radio Charitable Trust (PulseOximeter) South Brent Football Club (Thermoscan Ear Thermometer)
Devon & Cornwall Fire Protection Ltd (Blood Presure Monitor) South Brent Carnival Committie (Vehicle Sign) South Brent CO-OP (£25.00 For Stationary) South Brent WI (Vehicle Sign) South Brent Recreation Association (£30.00) Avril Kelly and Friends (50.00) South Hams Council (CathyPannell) (£325.00) South Brent Feoffees. (MrBlackler) (£300.00)
