LOCAL lifesavers who responded to nearly 2,000 emergency call-outs last year could close from April if they cannot find £2,000 to keep them on the road.
Studley First Responders are often first on the scene at accidents across Redditch and West Warwickshire yet rely on public donations to pay for everything from their cars and uniforms to all the emergency equipment they use.
“We are in dire straits.” admitted local co-ordinator Martin Barry, “and could close from April 1 if we can’t find this money.
“We’re in the situation of being used to providing help but not to asking for it ourselves.”
An appeal has already been launched and hopes are high a fund-raising committee will be organised to find the £10,000 a year it takes to keep the four-strong team of fully trained volunteers on the road.
Meanwhile Alcester and Stratford Round Table have stepped in with a £950 stop-gap donation to try and keep them going.
“They have been fantastic and we’ve been heartened by the local response to our appeal but we are just getting busier and busier every year, covering nearly 2,000 call-outs last year alone.” said Mr Barry.
999 emergency calls requiring an ambulance are routed through ambulance control which then alerts the local first responders, meaning they are normally first on the scene at an incident.
“We do vital work – for instance we’ve attended nine cardiac arrests this year and five survived which means five people are walking around today thanks to us.” Mr Barry added.
To find out more about Studley first Responders call Martin on 0778 8583980.
Studley Parish Councillor, Eric Holder, James Barry from Studley First Responders and Martin Barry, responder co-ordinator, are calling for support. Photo by Marcus Mingins 1215034MMR1
