VOLUNTEER first aiders in Risca were given a major funding boost last week following a donation of nearly £20,000 from the Gwent Association of Volunteering Organisations.

Risca First Responders received a grant of £19,076 to help them provide care to provide basic first aid patients in an emergency before paramedics arrive.

This can involve learning to use a defibrillator, giving oxygen and how to look after someone who has collapsed.

But with just four people currently signed up to the group, members of the Risca First Responders say they have struggled to handle the demands of the volunteer positions on their own, and the new funds will help kick start a much needed recruitment drive.

The donation will also allow then buy up to seven new first responder kits, and allow the group to purchase new training equipment.

Risca First Responders co-ordinator Kay Matthews said this new equipment, combined with extra volunteers willing to give up a few hours each week, could help save many more lives in Gwent.

Mrs Matthews said her husband Colin, who is also a first responder, had been attending many calls on his own and that needed to change.

Mrs Matthews, who works at the telephone control centre for the ambulance service, added: “Being a first responder is such a worthwhile thing to do and can only help the community. We ate so thankful for the donation - it means a great deal to us and will certainly help us to save lives.”

Anyone interested in joining Risca First Responder should contact Kay Matthews on 01495 270006.