These events offer a unique opportunity to recruit volunteers who would like a new challenge and want help their local community by becoming a Community First Responder. This is an exciting initiative run by the Department of Health which will provide those who volunteer a once in a lifetime experience, with a hands on role within the Ambulance Service. David Anderson MHK, Minister for Health said, “It’s always heartening to see in action the community spirit that is so prevalent on our Island, and witness the generosity of individuals who support campaigns like this one and volunteer their valuable time. The recruitment of volunteers is essential to the Island’s Health Service and our community; their help, assistance and cooperation, enables us to provide the very highest standards of care for the people of the Isle of Man.” Chief Ambulance Officer Steve Sieling commented, “These schemes have a real value in rural areas like the Isle of Man where there are individual, often small, communities dotted around the Island. Community First Responders are an important part of the team providing support to patients whilst an ambulance is on its way. “In terms of time commitment, it’s whatever time volunteers can spare, although ideally like the South of the Island we would love 24/7 cover, but there is no fixed time period, so it easily fits in around other commitments. Each area has a coordinator who manages the rotas etc.” There are schemes operating in Peel, Ramsey, Laxey, the south of the Island and Kirk Michael. More volunteers are always welcome, especially if you live or work in the west of the Island. For an application form or further information contact peter.smith@gov.im or telephone Ambulance HQ on 642582 and leave a message letting him know how we can contact you. - ENDS -