KEEN and willing recruits are wanted to join the ambulance service's band of volunteer lifesavers as a community first responder (CFR).

CFRs are people who are trained in a number of assessments and basic lifesaving techniques including the use of a defibrillator, a device used to restart the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest.

Their availability, close proximity and knowledge of their area are among their many assets.

CFRs are dispatched by the West Midlands Ambulance Service’s (WMAS) control room to medical emergencies in their area while an ambulance is en-route.

They are vital in life-threatening situations, particularly in the case of a cardiac arrest and trauma when every second counts.

WMAS is recruiting CFRs in Worcestershire.

Community response manager Cliff Medlicott said: “We’re looking for kind, compassionate people who are committed to helping others in their local community.

“Volunteers come from all walks of life. When they make themselves available to respond they can continue to go about their daily lives, but if an emergency call is received by the ambulance service within a five-mile radius, they are sent and always backed-up by an emergency ambulance service vehicle.

“To volunteer, you must be aged 18 or over, have a full driving licence and lots of enthusiasm.

“Help will be provided in obtaining the necessary equipment and no previous experience is necessary as West Midlands Ambulance Service will provide the training.

“Successful applicants will attend a nationally recognised training course covering Basic Life Support and Defibrillation, Medical Emergencies, Traumatic Emergencies and Preparing for Active Duty. They will then train alongside ambulance crews before going ‘live’”.

Applications close on Sunday, June 30. To apply, visit www.jobs.nhs.uk and search Community First Responder (CFR) - Worcestershire.