A CAMPAIGN has been launched to encourage more people to become life-saving volunteers.

Community first responders (CFR’s) across the New Forest have teamed up to launch a campaign.

More volunteers are needed, particularly in Ringwood and Bransgore. Ringwood currently has only one community first responder.

The volunteers who give their time freely to help save lives in their community. They are trained by South Central Ambulance Service in basic life support, the use of automated external defibrillator and the treatment and control of a wide range of potentially life-threatening conditions.

Jackie Russell, the deputy coordinator of the Bransgore scheme, said : “Like most voluntary groups, people come and go as their availability and life style changes so there is a constant need to seek out new volunteers.”

Volunteers will attend a five-day training course and are asked to commit at least 20 hours each month. They need to be over 18, have use of a car and be fit enough to carry the kitbag and conduct CPR were necessary.

Denis Hann is the only first responder in Ringwood and needs more volunteers to join him.

He said: “Responder schemes save lives.

"The reward for the individual is knowing that they have done their bit to save a life and I would say it is the best feeling in the world.

"But CFRs don’t just deal with cardiac arrests.

"There are many conditions they assist with, including accidents and trauma, breathing difficulties, stroke, chest pain, diabetic emergencies, the list goes on.

“Very often though, the best treatment is the reassuring presence of a caring first responder who is there just in case and who has skills to help and a direct link to the ambulance control room if needed."

Anyone interested in volunteering is asked to call 0800 587 0207 or email cfr@scas.nhs.uk