Ambulance service charity receives five-figure donation for volunteer responder group
Date: 29 July 2024The East of England Ambulance Service Charity has received an incredibly generous five-figure donation which will be used to purchase new medical kit bags for a volunteer first responder group in Little Gaddesden.
The Lawton Trust Ltd has donated £10,500 to the Little Gaddesden Community First Responder (CFR) group, who volunteer their time to help respond to medical emergencies in their community. This significant donation will fund three new CFR kit bags, containing essential equipment which can be used in responding to emergency calls. Currently the Little Gaddesden CFR group only have one CFR kit bag, which has to be shared between all the volunteers.
Howard Mecklenburgh, Director of The Lawton Trust Ltd, said: "The Lawton Trust was set up to promote and develop educational, religious, and community projects, and we could not think of a more worthwhile recipient than the wonderful volunteers who make up first responder groups.
"When we heard that responder kit bags were being shared in Little Gaddesden, and the help and potentially lives that the kit could save by providing each responder with their own packs, it was a very quick and easy decision for the Trustees to make. In some small way, it is a huge thank you to all in the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust for the priceless support they give to our community."
Sarah Gall, a dedicated volunteer CFR from Little Gaddesden, shared her excitement about the donation which will increase their kit bags from one to four.
She said: "Four CFRs, four bags. No more chasing around the countryside and sharing kits. This means we all have the right equipment at our fingertips and when every second counts, this will help us even more to make a difference."
The Lawton Trust's donation ensures that each of the four CFRs in Little Gaddesden will have their own dedicated kit. The impact of this support means quicker responses, better care, and ultimately could save more lives.
Kate Lott, Head of Charity at the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said: "The East of England Ambulance Service Charity is deeply grateful to The Lawton Trust Ltd for their support. This donation will make a significant impact on the Little Gaddesden community and to the volunteers, potentially saving lives and ensuring that community first responders are always ready to act swiftly."
Photo caption (from L-R): Little Gaddesden volunteer CFRs Wendy, Karen, Sarah and Jo with the new kit bags funded by the Lawton Trust.
