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A pilot of a new volunteer responder app has resulted in a significant boost to community emergency response, paving the way for a Scotland-wide rollout.
Run between November 2025 and February 2026, the pilot saw volunteer response to incidents increase by over 36%, enabling 786 more patients to receive vital assistance. The volunteer responder app replaces the existing Airwave Data Only terminals used for volunteer dispatch.
Jim Brand, a Community First Responder in Inverurie whose group took part in the pilot, said: “With over 15 years of experience as a CFR, I initially felt apprehensive about the new app but after the initial trial, our group are fully supportive of its implementation.
“Our call rate has markedly increased since adopting the app, and we now receive comprehensive patient information and timely updates, including estimated ambulance arrival times.
“It’s been a fantastic introduction and will undoubtably help more people in their time of need.”
The trial, which involved 46 Community First Responder (CFR) schemes across Scotland, also resulted in:
- 60.7% of volunteers able to book on as responders in under a minute, streamlining the response process.
- 23% of volunteers logging longer hours, demonstrating increased engagement and commitment.
- Improved response times due to more accurate geographical information provided by the app.
David Rodger, National Community Resilience Manager, said: “Our trained volunteers play a vital role in the Scottish Ambulance Service, responding to life-threatening situations before the ambulance crew arrives and providing critical care in the first vital minutes.
“This innovative approach highlights the power of digital transformation in enabling volunteers to provide timely, effective care within their communities and the forthcoming national roll-out, which will kick off in June, will ensure more patients receive prompt assistance when it matters most.”
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