SAFeR Steyning, the community first responder service, covers Steyning, Bramber and Upper Beeding. Volunteers have responded to calls to help those suffering from breathing problems, accidents, falls, convulsions, strokes and heart problems.

Recent recruits to SAFeR have taken the number of responders to 11 currently and include Nikki McIvor, who has lived in Steyning with her husband and three children for over six years.

"We were drawn to this beautiful town, great schools and facilities for the kids," said Nikki. "We've been completely amazed by the strong community spirit that exists here, which must be unique. For us, it's a great place to bring up children.

Prior to having children, Nikki worked for 15 years for Virgin Atlantic as a flight attendant. Each year she had to re-sit exams on safety and first aid to maintain her licence to fly.

She said: "The first aid was always my favourite and if there was a situation on the aircraft I was always first to get involved. When I first heard about SAFeR, I wanted to get involved but I was pregnant so the timing wasn't great.

"But now our son Max is 15 months and more independent, with my husband's support I can commit myself to the scheme. I want to put all my years of first aid to good use, and perhaps more importantly give something back to the community.

"I really feel privileged to be able to do this work. Behind all the responders is an amazing group of enthusiastic volunteers who make it happen. I hope I can help make a difference to someone because saving a life is an incredible thing. I think there is a quote that says 'The greatest gift you can give to anyone is given for free' and that's what volunteering is for me."

SAFeR responders are alerted at the same time as an NHS ambulance by the SECAmb Control Centre which receives emergency 999 calls. As responders are local people, they are already in the communities so can often get to patients first.

It is in these first vital few minutes that lives can be saved by quick and appropriate action. Responders are equipped with defibrillators and other medical supplies (not drugs) and have been fully trained by SECAmb.


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