Ambulance service looking for more volunteers

West Midlands Ambulance Service is looking for more community first responders

An ambulance service is looking for more volunteers to look after patients until an ambulance arrives.

West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is recruiting more community first responders (CFRs) across the region.

The role involves being trained in "basic lifesaving techniques" including the use of a defibrillator, before being dispatched to medical emergencies in their area.

Volunteers must be aged 18 or over, have a full driving license and "lots of enthusiasm," a spokesperson added.

The service said it was seeking volunteers across Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Warwickshire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Worcestershire.

There were currently more than 500 CFRs across the region, it added.

Community response manager Cliff Medlicott said volunteers would be sent to emergency calls within a five-mile radius and would always be backed up by an emergency ambulance service vehicle.

“We’re looking for kind, compassionate people who are committed to helping others in their local community.

“Help will be provided in obtaining the necessary equipment and no previous experience is necessary as West Midlands Ambulance Service will provide the training.

Applications to join close on 30 June.