Annual Report for Newtownhamilton and District Community First Responders
2023-2024
Report from the Chairperson
The past year has been busy and eventful for the group, marked by significant achievements and challenges. A key development was the extension of the group's coverage area, a result of the hard work of volunteers and community support.
Plans are in place to train new recruits in early 2025. However, staff shortages and changes within the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) have posed challenges, impacting the group's growth and support capacity.
Throughout the year, the team participated in various key activities, including visits to local primary schools to educate children on health and safety, organising a successful blood drive, and hosting a health and wellbeing day at the Rural Hall. These initiatives highlight the group's ongoing commitment to community engagement and wellbeing.
Gratitude is extended to Niall for securing council funding, as well as to those involved in obtaining National Lottery funding, which has been essential for the group's continued operations.
Special recognition is given to the team of first responders, whose diverse and vital skills contribute to the group's success. Thanks are also due to Siobhan for her dedicated efforts in providing essential training throughout the year.
Warm wishes are extended to everyone for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, with appreciation for the continued dedication to making a difference in the community.
Report from the Secretary:
This year marked a significant milestone for the group: five years of active operation as a first responder unit. To commemorate this achievement, a successful health and wellbeing day was hosted, offering a valuable opportunity to connect with the community.
Other key initiatives included the Big Action Cancer Bus and another successful blood drive. Additionally, connections with local primary schools were strengthened through CPR training and educational activities for students.
Despite these successes, challenges persist, particularly with the strain on the Ambulance Service, leading to longer waiting times and increased pressure on Community First Responders (CFRs). Nonetheless, the group remains committed to expanding its coverage area and continuing to respond to calls in a timely manner.
Thanks are extended to the office bearers for their dedication and hard work, ensuring the smooth operation of the group throughout the year.
Report from the Treasurer:
Northern Ireland First Responders continues to enjoy strong support from both the local community and further afield. This year, donations were received from Newtownhamilton High School and Lynne Anderson, who completed a sponsored walking challenge. Additionally, the
local community contributed nearly £500 in donations, which will help support the group’s ongoing work.
Significant expenditures included public liability insurance and costs associated with the health and wellbeing day. Fortunately, grant funding covered the expenses for this event, ensuring that the group's resources were not unduly strained.
The accounts for the previous year have been audited by an independent auditor and submitted to the Charity Commission, in accordance with financial governance standards. Copies of the income and expenditure statement have been distributed for review.
The continued support received is crucial for sustaining the group's activities, and it is greatly appreciated.
This concludes the Annual Report for Newtownhamilton and District First Responders Group. The team thanks all volunteers, supporters, and the community for their ongoing contributions, and looks forward to continuing its work into 2025 and beyond.