LIVES, the Lincolnshire-based emergency response charity, is celebrating an impactful 2024, during which its volunteers and training programs made a significant difference in local communities.
This year, LIVES’ Volunteer Community First Responders (CFRs) attended 2,578 emergencies, ensuring timely care and support for those facing medical crises. (Figures run from 01/01/2024 – 18/12/2024)
In addition to responding to emergencies, LIVES Expert Training trained 1,548 people in life-saving skills, equipping individuals, professionals and businesses with the confidence to respond in critical situations.
Volunteer CFRs play a vital role in providing immediate assistance in medical emergencies, often arriving on the scene before an ambulance. This year, LIVES volunteers have responded to a wide range of incidents, from life-threatening situations to providing reassurance and care to those in distress.
Annie, a LIVES Community First Responder, said: “As responders, we are everyday people serving our communities as CFRs. 2024 has been a great year for sharing our skills and knowledge teaching bystander CPR to members of our communities, a skill that can make so much difference!
“When on call I have met some people at their most vulnerable who have welcomed me into their homes and trusted me with their care until the ambulance arrives.
“It’s a very privileged position that I have. It’s a voluntary role, the thanks and gratitude I receive from patients and their friends and family is payment in itself.
“Will I still be responding in 2025? I remind myself daily of why I joined LIVES over 9 years ago and that reason is to be there in my local community when minutes really do matter. As long as my knees keep bending and my back allows me to. I’ll be there.”
LIVES volunteers will also be there for people in need this Christmas.
Julie, a LIVES Community First Responder has this to say about why she responded in 2023 and will continue to do so this year: “I had the free time, and I didn’t want anyone to be scared on Christmas Day if they had to call 999, if I could offer the help and support to help prevent that then I feel I would have done a good job.
“I’ll be responding this year as well because I want to be there for people in their moment of need.”
LIVES continues to depend on the generosity of its supporters to sustain its emergency response and training initiatives. The charity invites the community to reflect on its achievements in 2024 and consider donating to help LIVES reach even more people in 2025!
