They were inspired to don the iconic green uniform as first-aiders themselves, and take their company’s fundraising efforts up a notch.
Utmost Guernsey has been actively supporting St John Guernsey for the past two years. As well as organising a number of events and raising £25,000, its employees have volunteered their time, providing first aid support at some of the island’s biggest events, including Guernsey Together, North and West Shows, Seafront Sundays and its annual flag day.
The experience prompted Scarlett Plampton, Oto Idem and Amanda Benwell to officially sign up as St John Event First Aiders. They each completed their first aid training courses last year, and Mrs Benwell went on to complete an emergency responder course.
‘I always wanted to be a nurse when I was a little girl, but I never followed that path,’ she said.
‘I have a passion for helping people, I do a lot of charity work with disabled people, so just being able to know a bit more and help people in a different way is really exciting. I absolutely love it.
‘The exams for the latest course were really tiring, but worth it. I feel proud every time I put my St John uniform on.
‘The ambulance service do so much, I take my hat off to them for doing it all day, every day.’
St John volunteers train every week, and choose their duty shifts. So far, the three Utmost volunteers have assisted with bee stings and heat stroke at the summer shows, as well as injuries and fights in Town.
With none of them having any prior medical knowledge, they said the thorough, consistent training and the camaraderie from other volunteers had given them the confidence they need.
‘They are really supportive, and really guide you through,’ said Mrs Benwell.
‘We’ve made some great friendships. You learn stuff that you would never even think of, it’s very rewarding.’
Mr Idem said he knew he had found his purpose, after seeing the relief he was able to provide loved ones during an incident.
‘It was the 80th Liberation Day,’ he said.
‘A man was nearly unconscious and we were able to stabilise him before the ambulance team came to take him to hospital. I could see how the family members, who were so anxious, became calmer when we were there, because we were able to manage him and everything was fine. For me, that particular event made me really appreciate the role we’re doing.’
Utmost Guernsey CEO Leon Steyn said the company was immensely proud of all its colleagues who have supported, encouraged and been involved in the initiative, particularly the three new first aiders.
Heather Langlois, CEO of St John Guernsey, thanked Utmost for its support.
‘An incredible amount of money has been raised along with a number of wonderful friendships formed along the way,’ she said.
‘Both of which we can’t be more grateful for, and it helps us to continue our mission in delivering first aid treatment, education and training to our community.’