How much does a Responder get paid?
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Community Responders give their time free of charge. They are all volunteers.
Do you replace an Ambulance at the scene of an emergency?
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NO we do not replace an Ambulance - We work alongside the South East Coast Ambulance Service.
How much time and commitment do I need to make to the service?
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We ask that each volunteer commits at least 4 hours per week responding and a minimum of 5 days per year for fundraising.
What do I need to become a responder?
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You must be at least 18 years of age with access to a car and be able to attend emergency calls from either home or your place of work in the Eastbourne area. A Community Responder should be extremely reliable and trustworthy, good under pressure, able to remain calm in emergency situations and have a good level of fitness.
You are asking for funding, don't the Ambulance service fund you?
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The South East Ambulance service give us operational support but the scheme is entirely self-funded by donations.
Why are you needed?
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Our Responders are based at the heart of the community they serve, this means that they are often only a few minutes away from the emergency. As time is vital every second counts especially when dealing with Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
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This is a condition where the heart stops beating abruptly, usually caused by ventricular fibrillation (VF). Blood stops flowing to the brain. Early CPR and most importantly Defibrillation with an AED increases the chance of survival.
How much money does it cost to equip a Responder?
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A Responders kit includes an AED (Defibrillator), First Responder Pack, Oxygen, Clothing and car signs. This typically costs the scheme £2000 per responder.
Do you get to use Blue Lights and Sirens?
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NO Responders vehicles do display appropriate signage but we do not use blue lights or sirens.