Penicuik Community First Responders celebrate 20 years of lifesaving service

Penicuik Community First Responders (CFRs) are volunteers trained by the Scottish Ambulance Service to respond to a potential life-threatening emergency in the vital first few minutes before an ambulance crew arrives. 

The group covers the EH26 post code area and responds to emergencies such as cardiac arrests, heart attacks, seizures, and strokes. The group also maintain and manage eight publicly accessible external defibrillators (AED) in the area.

In addition to their lifesaving emergency response work and AED management, over the past 20 years, the Penicuik CFRs have delivered CPR and defibrillator awareness sessions to 1,128 people, helping residents gain the confidence and skills to act in a medical emergency.

Bill Lawson, Penicuik Community First Responder, said: “I have been a Community First Responder for nearly 20 years and what has struck me most is that the basic premise behind the CFR role and the aspirations of those who undertake the role is the same now as it has always been.

“The CFR role is a challenging one, but it has given me much more than it has taken. Being able to help people in times of stress has given me a profound sense of appreciation.

“Penicuik’s CFRs have come from a range of background and experiences but all of them have been dedicated volunteers, wanting to give something back to their community. It has been a delight and a privilege to be part of this group.”

Michael Dickson, Chief Executive, said: “Congratulations to the Penicuik Community First Responder Group on achieving this fantastic milestone. It was great to celebrate with them at their event, and this milestone is a testament to their dedication as volunteers.

“Our Community First Responders play a vital role in their communities and we are thankful to each and every one of them.”

For more information on the group and how to join as a volunteer: www.penicuikcfr.com