13/07/2026
Great to see the new Inverness Community First Responders Scheme in place. Welcome to the SAS family and thank you for your efforts over a busy first weekend.
Inverness First Responders Now Active and On Duty!
The Inverness Community First Responders are delighted to announce that the team officially became operational this weekend and is now actively responding to emergency calls across the Inverness area.
Working in partnership with the Scottish Ambulance Service, Community First Responders are trained volunteers who can often reach patients quickly and provide vital care in the crucial minutes before an ambulance crew arrives.
Their role includes assisting with medical emergencies such as chest pain, cardiac arrest, breathing difficulties, strokes and other time-critical conditions where those first few minutes can make all the difference.
Each responder carries specialist medical equipment that allows them to assess and treat patients before the arrival of an ambulance crew.
Their kit includes oxygen therapy, equipment to monitor vital signs such as blood pressure and oxygen levels, airway management equipment, trauma supplies, and emergency first aid equipment designed to stabilise patients and provide reassurance until further medical help arrives.
One of the most important pieces of equipment carried by the team is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
An AED is a portable, lifesaving device used to treat someone suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. It analyses the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers a controlled electric shock to help restore a normal heartbeat.
The device gives clear voice instructions and is designed to be used safely by trained responders. When combined with high-quality CPR, early defibrillation dramatically improves a person's chance of survival.
The launch of the Inverness team marks an important milestone for the local community and is the result of many months of training, preparation and dedication from volunteers committed to helping others.
By giving up their own time to support their community, these responders are helping to strengthen emergency care across Inverness and the surrounding area.
As the team begins its operational journey, it is actively seeking new volunteers to join its ranks. No previous medical experience is required, with full training and ongoing support provided.
What matters most is a willingness to help others, a commitment to learning new skills, and a desire to make a positive difference in the community.
Volunteering as a Community First Responder is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to gain lifesaving skills, meet like-minded people, and provide an invaluable service to local residents when they need it most.
The team is also inviting local businesses, community groups, charities, youth groups, schools and individuals to help support its work through fundraising, sponsorship and donations.
Every pound raised helps the team purchase and maintain additional lifesaving equipment, including AEDs, emergency response bags and other medical supplies.
As the team grows, so too does the need for more equipment, ensuring every responder is fully equipped to provide the highest standard of care.
Whether it's organising a charity event, choosing the team as a workplace charity, sponsoring essential equipment or making a donation, the support of the Inverness community and local business sector will directly contribute to saving lives across the Highlands.
Together, we can all help to build a Community First Responder team that is ready to answer the call whenever someone in our community needs help most.
If you are interested in volunteering or supporting the team in any shape or form, we'd love to hear from you.
Inverness Community First Responders.
Local Volunteers, local supporters.
All saving lives, together. 🚑💚
