If you have time to spare and have thought about getting involved with charity work, why not become a volunteer with St John Ambulance?
 
The Island’s leading life-saving charity offers wide range of services, from being a comforting presence at public events to running a diverse range of courses for the public and recruiting and training community first responders.
 
‘You don't have to wear a uniform or do first aid to be part of St John Ambulance – we also need support in a wide range of other areas such as fundraisers, clerical officers, radio operators and many more,’ said Phil Bennett, Commercial Development Officer. ‘Whatever skills you have to offer and however little time you might be able to commit, we would be pleased to hear from you.’
 
A new pathway unit for potential volunteers starts at St John Ambulance headquarters, Glencrutchery Road, Douglas, on Tuesday 18th September at 7.30pm.
 
Over 16 weeks, would-be volunteers will learn first aid and will learn about the work the charity does at events the Island over such as the TT and MGP, Tynwald Day, cycle racing and stock car racing, to name but a few.
 
It’s free to sign up and there is no obligation to stay on as a volunteer with St John Ambulance once sessions end. A warm welcome is guaranteed.
 
Those who joined pathway units in the recent past have stayed on as first aiders, admin assistants, youth leaders, fundraisers and community first responders.
 
Nickie Brown, 44, a banking administrator from Port Erin, who attended a pathway unit earlier this year and now goes out on duties with fully qualified members, said: ‘I was looking for a new hobby but had never really considered joining St John Ambulance until I heard about the pathway sessions. I really enjoyed learning new skills and meeting new people and I am now enjoying contributing to the invaluable work of a charity whose work affects everyone on the Island.’
 
To find out more about how to get involved, ring Phil Bennett, Commercial Development Officer, on 01624 674387 or email marketing@sja.org.im