COUNCILLOR WELCOMES CONTINUATION OF MAUD FIRST RESPONDER SCHEME

Grampian Joint Fire & Rescue Board has given its backing to the continuation of the pioneering First Responder scheme at Maud.

At a meeting of the Joint Board on Friday, members received a report on the pilot scheme which had been running for the past year involving members of the Fire and Rescue Service based at Maud Fire Station.

The First Responder scheme is an initiative led by the Scottish Ambulance Service where training is provided to deliver enhanced life-saving first aid until the arrival of a trained ambulance crew. Grampian Fire & Rescue Service supported the pilot scheme by providing a vehicle, protective clothing and staff wages for the Maud personnel whilst engaged on First Responder duties.

The Board heard of the positive difference that the First Responder scheme has made and lives have been saved as a result.

Commenting, SNP councillor and Grampian Joint Fire & Rescue Service Board member Brian Topping said:

"Lives are being saved thanks to this initiative and the dedication and training of the firefighters based at Maud.

"I know from speaking to the Maud firefighters that they are extremely proud of the real difference they have made in their own community through the First Responder scheme which has resulted in lives being saved. I am therefore delighted that the Board has agreed to continue the scheme at Maud and to look at expanding it into other areas."