Our Cabinet Member with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, says she’s very concerned about South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust’s (SWAST) plans to phase out a role that sees firefighters as ‘first responders’ in some medical emergencies.
For decades, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service co-responders have assisted in some medical emergencies, and have saved “countless lives”, according to Cornwall’s chief fire officer, Kathryn Billing.
“I am disappointed by the decision to cease our co-responding agreement,” Kathryn Billing is reported as saying.
“Our firefighters have provided a consistent, professional community response for nearly three decades.
“This is an incredibly sad end to a partnership which I know has made a significant difference to so many in our most rurally isolated communities.”
Councillor Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, said:
“A rural transport network and considerable distances between towns, villages and the hospitals which serve them mean people in rural communities often feel more vulnerable to health emergencies than those in urban settings.
“Collaboration between services and partnership working is often the solution to some of these significant challenges, especially in rural areas, and this decision appears to roll back from such an approach.
“I am very concerned about this decision; it was a huge shock to me and many others across Devon. I will be writing to the Trust and seeking information and answers to find out the detail, their reasoning, and whether their plans can be reconsidered.”
SWAST says it continually reviews its 999 response model to ensure a high level of patient care.
A spokesman said:
“In recent years we have been developing and strengthening our Community First Responder (CFR) volunteering model…this development means we will be phasing out the Fire Co-Responder role.
“CFRs receive an enhanced level of clinical training to help them respond to patients. CFRs can, with clinical support from the trust, administer pain relief and discharge patients at scene.
“The cost comparator between a Fire Co-Responder and a SWASFT Community First Responder is significant, so as part of our responsibility to provide the best possible care to patients, while meeting national expectations for efficiency and value for money, we are investing into increasing volunteers across the South West.
“As part of the transition, we have invited Fire Co-Responders to train to become CFRs.”