Community First Responder

Collectively, our CFR volunteers attend an average of 1,500 patients every month!

As a CFR, you’ll respond to 999 emergencies in your local area – often arriving within minutes to provide life-saving care before the ambulance crew arrives.

You’ll be trained to treat cardiac arrests, breathing difficulties, strokes, and other critical situations. Sometimes you’ll provide vital treatment; other times, just your presence and reassurance will make all the difference to patients and their families.

Time
commitment

20 hours per month. Flexible hours – you choose when.

Training for
the role

4 days initial training plus some online training.

What you
will need

Your own car and a full UK driving licence.

Coverage
area

Usually within 3 miles of your home.

Select the videos to hear more from our Community First Responder volunteers

Why we feel volunteering is important

Message to potential volunteers

"I’d really encourage people to become a CFR.

The impact you can have on your community, on your own life skills, and on patients who need help is enormous.

We’d love you to join us and support people in your local area."

Kathryn Broadbent, Head of Events, Commercial Services and Community Resilience

The impact of the role

"We see every day how quickly CFRs can change an outcome. If you want to make a direct, immediate difference in your community, this is one of the most impactful ways to do it – and we’ll support you every step of the way."

Amy Ingham, Volunteer Development Manager

How volunteers support patient care

"Our volunteers make a massive difference to patient care. Having CFRs living within their own communities means they can be just two streets away when someone needs help.

For patients in cardiac arrest, every minute counts – and having a CFR there can be the reason someone survives. The impact is immense."

Warren Bostock, Community Defibrillation Officer

The difference CFRs make

"When a CFR arrives, people see the uniform and are immediately reassured that someone from the ambulance service is there. Sometimes that reassurance is all they need.

In a cardiac arrest, having someone on scene quickly – like a CFR – makes a huge difference. They can start resuscitation before the ambulance arrives, giving that person the very best chance of survival. When we arrive, those early actions mean the patient has a much better chance of recovering."

Jason Carylon, Community Engagement Manager

Message for our existing CFR volunteers

"To our existing CFRs, I’d say: you’re absolutely wonderful.

I’m humbled every day when I see the difference you make and the lives you’ve helped save.

You have a huge impact on Yorkshire Ambulance Service and on our communities, and I want to thank you for everything you do."

Kathryn Broadbent, Head of Events, Commercial Services and Community Resilience

Types of incidents attended by CFRs

"CFRs mainly respond to conscious patients with medical emergencies such as chest pain, breathing problems, stroke, diabetic issues, severe allergic reactions and collapses. They also assist after falls, from serious cases involving unconsciousness or breathing trouble to helping uninjured people off the floor with specialist equipment."

Warren Bostock, Community Defibrillation Officer

Support for volunteers

"We support our volunteers from the very start, especially as it can feel nerve-wracking when it’s all new.

Once they’ve completed their training and are ready to go live, we buddy them with another volunteer for their first shift.

It gives them the chance to see how incidents are handled and how to hand over to the crew with confidence."

Amy Ingham, Volunteer Development Manager

Patient feedback

"Thanks for your help when you came to our house when I was having chest pains. It was so reassuring to know that you were there and so, so quickly.

Keep up the good work and what you do is very much valued."

Feedback from a loved one

"A CFR attended my mum when she sadly passed away. Thank you so much for everything you did, I honestly don't know what we'd have done without you and your colleagues.

I will never forget the professionalism and respect displayed by you and your colleagues."

Your questions answered

How much time commitment is needed?

We encourage you to carry out 20 hours per month to maintain competency. However, when you do these hours is completely up to you as our service runs 24/7.

Do I need experience or qualifications?

No experience is needed. We’ll give you all the training you need for your role, free of charge. New volunteers attend a 4-day course. There are also ongoing training requirements to keep you safe, confident, and effective in your role.

What exactly will I be expected to do in an emergency?

CFRs attend specific 999 emergencies like cardiac arrests, chest pains, difficulty breathing, strokes, and diabetic emergencies. Often, CFRs are first on scene, carrying out initial assessments and treatments. They also provide updates to the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and provide on-scene assistance to ambulance crews.

Will I be exposed to traumatic situations?

By the nature of the role there may be times when you are exposed to stressful or distressing situations. You will receive training on how to handle these, and we provide lots of support.

Is there a minimum or maximum age to volunteer as a CFR?

The minimum age is 18. There is no maximum age, but you must be physically fit and be willing to undertake an occupational health screening. If you’re unsure or want to talk about your situation, please get in touch – we’re happy to help.

What if I don't feel confident after training?

There's no pressure to 'go live' until you feel fully confident. You'll be assessed for competence, and we encourage you to seek support if needed. You can also buddy up with an experienced CFR to build your confidence.

Do I need a particular kind of transport or licence requirement?

Yes, you need your own vehicle. CFRs cannot use motorcycles or bicycles to respond to incidents. You must have a full UK driving licence with no more than three penalty points.

Are expenses covered?

Yes – you can claim mileage expenses. This is 45p per mile. Your equipment, uniform, and training are provided free.

Am I covered by insurance?

You will need your own fully comprehensive car insurance and be insured to use your vehicle for voluntary purposes, often classed as ‘business use’. You'll need to check with your own insurer. Your activity as a CFR is covered by Trust insurance.

Can I stop volunteering if my circumstances change?

Absolutely. If things change, there’s no obligation to continue. Also, if you feel your current role is no longer suitable for you, we’ll support you to switch roles or take a break. Whatever you need.

Ready to start?

Joining our team of almost 1,000 volunteers is easy. Select Apply now to view our volunteer vacancies.

Do you have a question? Email:

yas.communityfirstresponders@nhs.net