Do you want to make a real difference in your local community? If you’re calm under pressure, care about others, and want to help during a medical emergency, volunteering as a Community First Responder (CFR) with Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) could be the perfect role for you.

CFRs are ordinary people from all walks of life – no medical background needed – who are trained to provide basic lifesaving support while an ambulance is on its way. That might mean offering reassurance to a patient, performing CPR, or using a defibrillator to restart someone’s heart in a life-threatening situation.

Because CFRs live and work within the communities they serve, they can often reach patients within minutes, providing crucial early help when every second counts.

What You’ll Do as a CFR

• Respond to 999 medical emergencies in your area
• Provide basic life support, including CPR, oxygen therapy, and defibrillation
• Offer vital reassurance to patients and families
• Work alongside professional ambulance crews

You’ll receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from YAS – no previous experience required.

What You’ll Need

• Be 18+ with a full UK driving licence (max. 3 points)
• Have access to a car
• Commit to at least 20 hours a month (flexible)
• Complete training, an Enhanced DBS check, and health screening

You’ll also attend occasional scheme meetings and stay connected through updates and newsletters.

Why Join?

Whether you want to give back, gain experience or just help others, becoming a CFR is hugely rewarding.

“Sometimes, just being there in those first few minutes makes all the difference.”

Apply Now

Find a scheme near you and apply at: https://www.yas.nhs.uk/get-involved/volunteer-with-us/community-first-responders/

Join over 1,300 volunteers already making a difference across Yorkshire and the Humber.

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