Health / Mainland firm to provide first aid cover at Tall Ships
Shetland people have the chance to train as a first aid responder
SHETLAND Tall Ships Ltd has appointed Grampian Training Services to provide first aid cover at this summer’s four-day event in Lerwick.
There are currently no commercial first aid services available in the islands following a decision by the Red Cross to discontinue its provision a few years ago.
Grampian Training Services intends to train up a team of 12 local first aid responders to complement its own staff – which should deliver a lasting benefit to the Shetland community beyond the Tall Ships event.
The company is run by Tom Malcolm, who worked at the first Lerwick Tall Ships event back in 1999 when he was employed by the Red Cross.
“We’re obviously pleased to have got the contract,” he said. “We’re looking forward to working with all of our partners to ensure everyone has a safe, fun time.
“The last time I was up here everyone had a great time. We’re more or less an insurance policy in case something goes wrong, so hopefully we’ll be around enjoying it too.”
Grampian Training Services will train locals to a first responder or FREC3 level with the aim that the service can then be provided on an ongoing basis for local events.
In addition to the wider community benefit, it will reduce the number of personnel required to travel to Shetland for the event.
Malcolm’s company also provides regular first aid training to a range of council staff including those within the education and social work departments.
It is currently expanding to offer cover for regular community events including Up Helly Aas, sporting events, country shows and galas.
Malcolm said that so far five folk had been signed up locally and he is keen to recruit an additional seven. A blue light ambulance will also be sourced to provide medical cover in addition to first aid at July’s event.
“We’re trying to build a team up here who will not just be available for Tall Ships, but also to do many other events in the community beyond July,” he added.
“If anyone is looking for work as first aid cover, I would urge them to get in touch with us as soon as possible.”
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