Cardiac responders ready to help

A NEW ten-strong community cardiac responder group has been established in the Glenkens. The volunteer group was set up to respond to cardiac arrests in the vital first few minutes before an ambulance crew arrives. The launch of the responder group comes as part of CARe Zone - a wider strategy by the Scottish Ambulance Service, Dumfries and Galloway Council and NHS Dumfries and Galloway to enhance community readiness for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Lindsay Stewart, Loch Ken Trust manager and Glenkens group founder, said: “We are delighted to see the launch of the Glenkens Community Cardiac Responders Group. “There has been a great show of support from members of the community, and we would like to thank everyone who has come forward and volunteered to be a part of this, helping to build resilience in our remote and rural communities. “I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the Scottish Ambulance Service for their invaluable support in helping to establish the group and for providing the training that has made this possible.” Paige Fletcher, SAS cardiac responder development lead, added: “It was a privilege to meet and train such a dedicated group of volunteers, who are committed to making a real difference. “Their enthusiasm and willingness to give their time to support this is truly inspiring. By helping to build resilience for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests and increasing the chances of survival in remote and rural areas, this group will have a lasting and meaningful impact on their community.” To find out more about cardiac community responders visit: www.scottishambulance.com/your-community/community-first-responders/community-cardiac-responders.