Want to join our team?

Community First Responders come from all different walks of life and volunteer for many different reasons. Anyone who wants to help their community can become a CFR. No previous medical experience or training is necessary although you will need a caring attitude and be able to cope with potentially distressing situations. You need to:

• be aged 18 or older
• hold a valid, full UK driving licence for at least 12months with no more than three penalty points
• have access to a car
• be prepared to undertake an Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check
• be prepared to undertake occupational health screening
• be prepared to take our CFR course.

You will be asked to attend a welcome evening and introduction to Yorkshire Ambulance Service. We will then arrange training in your local area.

What training is received?

Subject to acceptance of your application, and the completion of relevant checks as above, you will be invited on a training course. The training generally takes around 16 hours and may be delivered on evenings or weekends depending on the needs of the group. The training includes:

• Introduction to Community First Responding
• Automated External Defibrillation and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• including the use of all associated equipment
• Oxygen Therapy
• Treatment of Medical Conditions
• Responder Safety and Risk Assessment including:
• Communicating with Patients
• Health and Safety, Infection Control
• Completion of Paperwork

Each unit requires the completion of a written and practical assessment which then must be updated every six months.