First Responders Scheme proves a hit amongst Students

Students from Newcastle University continue to volunteer on the frontline during lockdown to support the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) and one of the region's largest vaccination hubs. After a successful first year, the NEAS First Responder scheme at Newcastle University has recruited new volunteers to help local NHS services in responding to patients dialling 999 in the Tyneside area. The medical students attend the most severe categories of calls and respond to immediate life-threatening emergencies to patients as a resource of North East Ambulance Service.

There are 41 medical students who have been trained to work at ‘The Parks’ a Covid-19 vaccination hub in North Shields to support the vaccine roll-out. Working under the direct supervision of a GP, they have administered over 30,000 vaccines at the centre.

Newcastle University student lead, Ollie Kirby, said: “It’s a privilege for us as a team to respond to 999 calls and assist patients at times of critical need, and being able to directly support NEAS and other NHS services during our studies is very important to us. Volunteering to work on this service, especially during the added risk and challenges of the pandemic, is a significant commitment. I’ve been inspired by the dedication which fellow team members have shown to the service, and to the patients we attend.”

Medical student and First Responder, Philippa Wright, added: “Being a First Responder has undoubtedly played a huge role in the development of my confidence and skills in demanding situations. It is a real privilege to be able to help our local community and everyone has been really supportive of our learning.”

Further information: www.ncl.ac.uk