FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need any first aid qualifications to become a First Responder?
How long is the initial training?
Where does the training take place?
What does the training cover?
What type of calls do First Responders attend?
How often would I need to be available to be ‘on duty’?
What other criteria do I need to meet?
How do I apply to become a First Responder?
What else could I do to help?
Do I need any first aid qualifications to become a First Responder?
No. Initial training for volunteers who have had no previous medical or First Aid experience will be provided by the Essex Ambulance Service NHS Trust or a recognised body working on behalf of the Trust. During the training period candidates will be assessed by approved qualified instructors and have to pass satisfactorily practical and written examinations before being allowed to participate as a First Responder.
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How long is the initial training?
The training and assessment takes approximately 6-8 hours.
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Where does the training take place?
At a local training facility (so far Weeley Ambulance Station and Broomfield)
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What does the training cover?
- The role of the First Responder
- Code of Conduct
- Airway management
- Basic Life Support
- Use of the defibrillator
- Management of an unconscious patient
- Patient observation and assessment
- Respiratory disorders
- Cardiac conditions
- Medical disorders, epilepsy, diabetes
- Wounds and bleeding
- Oxygen therapy
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What type of calls do First Responders attend?
Patients aged 12 years and over suffering from
- Cardiac arrest
- Chest pains
- Breathing difficulties
- Choking
- Bleeding
- Unconscious patients
- All patients with immediately life threatening conditions
You will not be asked to attend incidents involving
- Fire
- Violence
- Road Traffic Accidents
- Children under 12 years of age
- Gynaecological and maternity
- Severe trauma
- Potential spinal injuries
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How often would I need to be available to be ‘on duty’?
That is entirely up to you and is very flexible. Being a First Responder should not interfere with your way of life! Our current group varies its duties to fit around other commitments. Some do four hours a week, some 24 hours or more a week!
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What other criteria do I need to meet?
- Aged between 18-70
- Fit and healthy
- Have a full UK driving licence with 6 endorsements or less (the Trust have some discretion here depending on the offences)
- Have your own transport when ‘on duty’ (this does not affect your insurance policy)
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How do I apply to become a First Responder?
Contact Annie Neish on 01206 240469 for further information and an application pack.
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What else could I do to help?
If you do not want to be a First Responder there are lots of other things you could do to help – Treasurer, facilities for printing, posting leaflets to raise awareness, promotional events, financial contributions and fund raising activities, and more……. Please contact Annie with any offers of help!
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