Huge congratulations to South East Coast Ambulance Service’s (SECAmb’s) Eastbourne Community First Responders (CFRs) who were recently recognised for their outstanding contribution to the local community with a prestigious King’s Award.
The team received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest accolade a voluntary group can receive in the UK – from the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, Mr Andrew Blackman, during a special ceremony held at the Grand Hotel Eastbourne on Saturday, 2 May.
Having responded to circa 1,400 incidents over the last year, the award recognised the dedication and impact the team have within their local community; through their emergency response and life-saving care as well as increasing public education in skills that could one day save a life.
The event brought together local dignitaries, including Liberal Democrat MP for Eastbourne, Josh Babarinde OBE, and Councillor Margaret Bannister, the Worshipful the Mayor of Eastbourne, in celebration of the remarkable contribution made by the Eastbourne Area CFRs.
Interim CEO, Jen Allan, alongside members of the community resilience team and senior leaders from Polegate Make Ready Centre represented SECAmb to mark the occasion and the award was accepted on behalf of the team by Richard Bradford, the team’s leader.
Reflecting on the team’s achievement, Richard said: “Receiving the King’s Award is a tremendous achievement and reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to providing vital emergency support when it matters most. Their professionalism, compassion and teamwork continue to make a real difference to people across the community every day.”
Operational Team Leader, Steph Meech added: “The ceremony was a proud and memorable occasion for everyone involved, highlighting the dedication and resilience of the responders who volunteer their time to help save lives and support those in need.”
This well-deserved recognition serves as an important reminder of the incredible impact volunteers have within our communities.