Recognised training
Volunteers complete ambulance-service training and ongoing development appropriate to community response.
About our team
Working alongside the ambulance service
Community First Responders are trained volunteers who can begin urgent care close to home while an ambulance is travelling to the patient.
A local life-saving purpose
Ordinary people doing something extraordinary
Albrighton & Cosford Community First Responders give their time to help people facing serious medical emergencies in their own community.
Because responders are based locally, there are occasions when an available volunteer may reach a patient before an ambulance. That early intervention can provide reassurance, immediate first aid and vital life-saving actions during the wait.
The group does not replace the ambulance service and attendance is never guaranteed. Ambulance control decides how every 999 call is managed according to the information available and the needs of the patient.
How community response works
From 999 call to safe handover
- 01
The emergency call is assessed
West Midlands Ambulance Service decides what response a patient needs and whether a community responder is an appropriate additional resource.
- 02
A volunteer is dispatched
An available responder is sent through ambulance-service control arrangements. Members of the public cannot call a responder directly.
- 03
Early care begins
The responder assesses the patient and provides care within their training, which can include CPR and use of a defibrillator.
- 04
Care is handed over
When ambulance clinicians arrive, the responder provides a clear handover and supports the wider team as required.
Prepared to help
Training, equipment and teamwork
Responders operate within a defined volunteer role supported by the ambulance service.
Connected to control
Responders are activated through ambulance-service arrangements, not through direct calls from members of the public.
Part of the response
Early volunteer care complements the ambulance response and is handed over when ambulance clinicians arrive.
Local people. Local impact.
Could you be part of the team?
You do not need to decide today. Start by learning about the different ways you can help.
Make a difference locally
Keep community response moving
Volunteers need a community behind them. Your support can help the group prepare, fundraise and be ready when called.