Vale of Lorton Community First Responders

Our community is covered by the Vale of Lorton Community First Responders (CFR), covering Honister to Fangs Brow to Cockermouth, and we are always in need of extra members.

What we do

We are volunteers and part of the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS). When a 999 call is received by NWAS, if it’s appropriate, a call will immediately go out to the nearest CFRs, as someone is usually able to get to the scene before the ambulance. We carry a range of diagnostic equipment, defibrillators and oxygen, and we can provide immediate treatment such as CPR and using a defibrillator in those vital moments before the paramedics arrive, which can SAVE LIVES!

CFRs are trained to cope with a range of medical incidents; quite often, all that is needed is assessment, care and emotional support until the ambulance arrives. This support is greatly appreciated by patients and their families. It is a very rewarding thing to be able to do.

The Training

Full training is given by NWAS, and there are regular meetings with ongoing training. We all undertake an annual reassessment. The group is very sociable, and there is a great feeling of camaraderie. We all support each other, and we also have a lot of support from NWAS. We are part of the “Green family”. We also have the opportunity to do an annual “Third Manning” shift on an ambulance, which is a great experience and certainly an eye-opener, but it is not compulsory.

The Time

CFRs are provided with an app for callouts, which we use to sign in when we are available. There is no pressure to attend every call out as you register your availability and would only respond when you choose.

To find out more, please contact Peter Deeks on 07802 662659