What sort of voluntary work do you do, and where?
First Responders work under the guidance of the Welsh Ambulance Service, being sent to medical emergencies in the home usually, not as a replacement for an ambulance crew, but merely whilst the crew are on their way and we are a bit closer. An ambulance is always dispatched first to any emergency, and the responders very shortly afterwards. Responders are never sent into dangerous situations, and support/backup is always there if requested.

How did you get started? My wife read a newspaper advert about First Responders on Anglesey in 2004. It's not something I had thought about previously, but like every other responder in Wales, we all do our bit.

How long have you been a volunteer?
Four and a half years now.

Are there any special skills you need to be a volunteer?
All training for the emergencies we are sent to is provided by the Welsh Ambulance Service, with regular re-sits/re-tests, involving first aid, the use of oxygen equipment, and using an automatic external defibrilator.

How many hours do you give?
It's entirely down to the individual, whatever they can spare to sign on with ambulance control. There is no minimum, or indeed maximum, hours.

What are the best and worst things about being a volunteer?
The best thing has to be helping to make that little bit of difference in someone's life, and of course actually saving a life. The worst thing has to be the sadder moments, but even then, you know you tried your best, and the support of colleagues, paramedics, and the Welsh Ambulance Service as a whole is incredible.

How can other people get involved?
Most responder schemes in Wales have their own websites, they can also look at www.angleseyfirstresponse.co.uk to see if a local scheme is listed, or simply phone your Local First Responder Officer. Here in North Wales our officer is Alun Roberts on 01978 366204. He's a brilliant guy who will have information about any scheme here in North Wales.