Moffat Community First Responder gives more than 2,500 hours to support local community

Moffat local Christine Stewart (pictured right) has given 2,596 hours of her time as a Community First Responder (CFR) this year, booking on nearly every day in 2026 and responding to 49 incidents to support her community.

Christine was inspired to become a CFR 14 years ago after her husband suffered a cardiac arrest at home. Although he made a full recovery, the experience left Christine determined to learn how to help others in an emergency.

Speaking about her decision to volunteer, Christine said: “The local group was just starting, and, at first, I wasn’t sure if it was for me. I felt I couldn’t do a thing, but they encouraged me to start the training and see. From there, I’ve just loved every second.”

Community First Responders are volunteers trained by the Scottish Ambulance Service to provide vital support in the first few minutes of a potentially life-threatening emergency in their local region, before an ambulance crew arrives.

Of her volunteer role, Christine said: “Everyone in Moffat knows me as a volunteer responder. I booked on nearly every day this year, apart from five days when I was abroad. It’s important to support my community and make a difference.

“At the moment there are only two volunteers in the group, and we would love to welcome new recruits to help keep it going. Every incident is different and, once you get a call, the rush of adrenaline keeps you focused. Moffat is quite rural, so having local volunteer responders is vital.”

Christine’s dedication was celebrated with a Local Hero Award, presented at the opening of the Scottish Parliament in June this year, where she met the King and Queen.

Christine added: “Receiving the Local Hero Award was a real honour, but the most rewarding part of volunteering is knowing I can be there for people in my community when they need help most. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about becoming a Community First Responder to give it a go. The training and support are excellent, and it really does make a difference.

For further information on how to become a Community First Responder in Moffat, complete the online form here: https://www.scottishambulance.com/your-community/community-first-responders/how-do-i-become-a-community-first-responder/