THE Tralee Community Responders received a boost this morning  when they got a cheque for €3,000 in the post.

The group had applied to the JP McManus Benevolent Fund, listing their aims, monies required and other details. A panel looks at each application and they got word three weeks ago that they were being awarded €3,000 for the scheme. This morning, the cheque came in the post.

The aim of Tralee Community Responders is to form a group of trained volunteers available within the coverage area who are willing to respond to emergency calls within their area, to try and improve patient outcome.

The scheme will work alongside, and be under the control of, the National Ambulance Service, from whom they will receive their emergency calls.

At the moment, they have 25 members currently in training as CFR’s. They are looking at a possible August date for going live with the service but this will depend on the members being 100% ready.

The scheme is 100% self-funded and must raise funds locally in order for the group to go live. It is estimated that it will cost in the region of €6,500 for the scheme to go live.