We are seeking two levels of volunteers that will work together to increase community resilience through first aid knowledge.

Presenters – a teaching role of explaining First Aid theory, answering questions and demonstrating first aid skills such as CPR.

Helpers – a tutoring role of assisting the presenter. This may be in retrieving teaching aids, helping to answer questions, to delegate tasks and approaching the attendees in smaller groups once a demonstration has been made to assist, correct and encourage appropriate technique.

There are several Community Resilience projects that you could become involved with:

Project resilience. These are free presentations to help build the resilience of the Canberra community. They are relaxed and informative 1.5 hour presentations delivered by up to 3 St John Volunteers that are targeted at active retirees and their families. The groups can be a size of 10-40.

The focus of these presentations is grouped into two main topics.

1. What if the worst happens? (CPR, Defibrillation and Choking); and
2. Medical Emergencies (Heart attack, stroke, burns and anaphylaxis).

These take place at 14 Thesiger Court, Deakin. A combination session (1.5hrs to 2hrs, covering CPR, Defibrillation, Heart attack and Stroke) is also presented to groups of retirees or seniors at their own location.

Project survival Similar to Project Resilience in delivery, they are directed at smaller groups of 2-8 of at risk or vulnerable community members. They are usually presented at rehabilitation centres and women’s shelters, though locations may vary. Presentations are around every 4 to 6 weeks depending on the organisation. Basic First Aid Skills taught will include how to call an Ambulance, how to stop a major bleed and how to do CPR.

Junior First Aid A full day school holiday first aid course for children aged 8-13. A wide range of topics including CPR, snakebite, fractures, bleeding, sprains and strains is covered. The content is aligned with the cub and scout achievement badges. Volunteers are encouraged to attend and support the commercial trainer running these courses.

Other opportunities including scouts, mums groups, expos and information stalls.

Successful applicants will have: • Clear, respectful friendly communication skills • Confidence to present on first aid topics – previous experience not essential • Flexibility and adaptability to work with the vulnerable, different age groups, socioeconomic or cultural backgrounds. • Tidy presentation • Physical ability to perform CPR, clean and carry equipment • Passion for helping others • An interest in working with vulnerable people in the community • the ability to be punctual and organised • The ability to use and set up a laptop and projector • Basic proficiency in MS PowerPoint

This opportunity is good for: • Retirees • Medical and paramedical students As well as volunteers interested in: • Education and training • Emergency services • Self-development, working or studying as allied health services such as paramedics or physiotherapy. • First aid • Helping others

Please contact Meghan Carpenter at 02 6282 2399 or by expressing interest below.