Skye Cousins complete over 2,000 volunteering hours

Like hundreds of such volunteers across the country, both have been trained by the Scottish Ambulance Service in delivering life-saving treatment in the community.

SAS currently has over 900 CFRs, largely based in rural communities. Their aim is to reach a potential life-threatening emergency in the vital first few minutes before an ambulance crew arrives. 

Steve Brealey, who is the co-ordinator for all 11 members of the Skye CFR team, said: “I have always held an interest in first aid and prior to retiring to Skye, volunteered as the First Aid Rep at work.

“Unfortunately, in December 2020 I was diagnosed with cancer. The Skye community were so incredibly supportive during my treatment, and it was really important to me to give something back. After becoming cancer clear, I was able to fulfil my dream of becoming a CFR. It’s a job I love, and I'd recommend it to anyone interested in helping to save lives.”

His cousin, Bridget Little, joined after seeing a post on Facebook inviting Skye residents to attend a meeting about becoming a Community First Responder.

Bridget Little said: “After attending the meeting, I decided it was a way that I could help my local community.

“Living in a very remote part of Scotland, I felt it was important to become a CFR to provide medical support before an ambulance can arrive. As a CFR, I can give reassurance to patients and their families whilst providing emergency medical support before paramedics are on scene.

“We are a tight knit community on Skye, a friendly group who get together every month for refresher training and to support each other.”

David Rodger, SAS National Community Resilience Manager, said:

“Steve and Bridget’s dedication to their roles as CFRs is fantastic to see and completing almost 85 days on call each since their training over a year ago is a fantastic achievement. They are a real asset to Skye, and I can't praise them enough.

“Our Community First Responders play a vital role in their communities, starting treatment while an ambulance is on route as every second counts when a person suffers a cardiac arrest or seizure.”

To find out more about becoming a CFR, please visit: Community First Responders (scottishambulance.com)