Leader of the Welsh Conservatives and Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has praised St John Ambulance Cymru for making a positive impact in Wales, responding to emergencies, supporting communities and saving lives.
Last week, Darren met with Richard Lee, the charity’s Chief Executive, in Abergele, to discuss key parts of St John Ambulance’s strategy in Wales. Including volunteering in health, plans to establish NHS Cadets Cymru, improving standards of first responder and healthcare provision at events, and supporting the health literacy and resilience of our communities.
Established in 1918, St John Ambulance Cymru are Wales’ leading first aid charity, delivering first aid treatment, training, and transport.
St John People will train 25,000 people in first aid in Wales this year, respond to thousands of falls and emergency calls on behalf of the NHS and look after over 1,000 community events, as well as larger events where the world is watching Wales.
Their youth section will continue to provide their 1,000 young people with opportunities to learn first aid and life skills and maximise their potential now and for the future.
Speaking after his meeting with Mr Lee, Darren said:
“It was a real pleasure to meet with Richard last week to discuss all that the charity is doing in Wales.
“St John Ambulance is far more than just first aid, it empowers people of all ages with vital live saving skills.
“I was particularly pleased to hear that they are training and supporting so many under 18s, providing them with the tools to make a real and lasting difference.
“I also commend the excellent work that they do in supporting our NHS and was pleased to hear that in their manifesto, which will be launched in late December, they will be outlining plans to increase volunteering in healthcare, which will bridge gaps in emergency response, patient care, and community support.
“I was told that their manifesto will also focus on supporting children and young people, and introducing a set of standards for event medical care.
“St John’s commitment to saving lives, supporting our NHS, and strengthening community health truly is inspiring and I thank all the incredible St John Ambulance volunteers across Wales for their committed service which is making a real difference in the lives of so many.”
