New life-savers for Waveney
Life saving in the Waveney Valley took a further step forward this week with the formation of the Gillingham Community First Responder (CFR) group.
Gillingham resident Emma Thurbon, who initially trained with a similar group at Beccles and has already helped save a patient who suffered a cardiac arrest, will champion the cause.
"The immediate task is to secure funding for dedicated equipment and look for willing volunteers to join the group," she said.
"The areas to be covered by the group will be out to Geldeston, Kirby Cane and Ellingham, as well as Gillingham, and we will begin with equipment generously loaned from the Bungay responders and a defribrillator from the ambulance loan pool."
The group, when at full strength and availability, will then overlap with the CFR group at Beccles, Bungay and Loddon.
On hand to launch the scheme was Suffolk chief officer Rob Lawrence, who welcomed the addition of the group on the Norfolk/Suffolk border.
"First response is going from strength to strength in this area and the arrival of a responder a few minutes ahead of an emergency ambulance armed with their basic life support skills and defibrillation is a real life saver," he said.
"These volunteers literally touch the heart of the community and the challenge for Gillingham and its neighbouring villages is to find a few more willing volunteers and funds for essential kit and equipment."
People wishing to volunteer, raise funds or donate can do so by calling responder admin on 01284 731802 or email responder.admin@eastamb.nhs.uk First responders will be in attendance at Saturday's Beccles Hospital fete to answer questions and demonstrate equipment.
