About Us And the Scheme.

Barry First Responders are volunteers who commit their spare time to assist the Welsh Ambulance service. Each one of us live in and around the town and generally work full time, whilst committing to providing emergency cover for as many hours possible throughout each week. We could be at home or in and around town carrying out our normal daily routines. We are always on the end of the phone or paging system waiting for that life threatening call which when received sends us into action.

First Responder schemes are a valuable additional resource for communities in giving swift emergency help before an ambulance can arrive and do not in any way replace existing emergency ambulance services.

There are currently around 103 First Responder Schemes in Wales, but the Welsh Ambulance Service wants to increase this number and ensure that more communities have the ability to gain access to CPR and defibrillator training. The earlier someone suffering from a heart attack receives defibrillation, the greater the chance of survival.

First Responder Officer, Tony Rossetti said: “Every second counts when you are trying to save someone’s life and First Responder schemes are hugely beneficial in assisting the ambulance service to provide the best possible pre-hospital care for patients. All training for volunteers who wish to take part in such an initiative is provided by the Welsh Ambulance Service and we look forward to delivering more schemes across South East Wales.”

To become a First Responder you must be between 18 and 70 years old, be physically fit and hold a clean UK driving licence. Applicants will also need to undergo a Criminal Records Bureau check before being registered to the scheme. For information on how to join the scheme e-mail info@barry-responders.org.uk