Danbury community first responders recognised for outstanding contribution

A team of community first responders at the East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) who have responded to over 8,000 patients have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to their community.   

The Danbury community first responders received the team award from The Mayor of Chelmsford, Cllr Sue Dobson, at the ceremony for the Mayor’s awards for Outstanding Contribution to Voluntary Service. 

This was the first time a team award had been introduced to the awards, which have been running for eight years after being started by Chelmsford Community Volunteer Services (CVS). The other two categories are for adult and youth volunteers.  

Founded in 2002, the Danbury community first responders have nine active volunteers who provide around 70 hours of cover for EEAST a week and cover around 100 square miles of Essex, with areas covered including Danbury, Bicknacre, Sandon, Little Baddow.  

CFRs are volunteers who are trained by EEAST to attend certain types of emergency calls in the area where they live or work.  

Their aim is to reach a potential life-threatening emergency in the first vital minutes, helping stabilise the patient and provide appropriate care until the ambulance crew arrives on scene to take over the treatment. 

Lorna Hayes, Head of Community Response at EEAST, said:  

“We are extremely proud to see the team receive this recognition and well-deserved award.  

“The voluntary work they have done supporting their community for over twenty years is truly remarkable and we are grateful for all they do.” 

If you are interested in becoming a CFR and want to find out more information, please visit East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust’s website.