BASICS Devon fast response doctors - there when you need them most

Volunteer medics were called out more than 300 times last year to the more remote parts of the county as part of the vital emergency response service provided by the BASICS Devon charity.

In 2024 alone, the BASICS Devon fast response service attended 371 emergency callouts, including 55 cardiac arrests and 105 night-time incidents, with a first-on-scene rate of more than 40%.

The charity relies solely on donations but provides a team of volunteer doctors spread around Devon who support South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT).

On call day or night, the highly trained doctors provide 24/7 pre-hospital emergency care, often arriving first on scene, even in the most remote areas.

Katrin, a cardiac arrest survivor, is one of many lives touched by BASICS Devon: “Without the quick response and lifesaving defibrillator, things could have been so different,” she said.

“I am lucky to be alive.”

The Gazette recently reported on the experience of car crash survivor Abbi, who was trapped in the wreckage for two-and-a-half hours and believes the presence of a BASICS Devon doctor is the only thing that kept her alive.

In 2024 the charity conducted 25 community education sessions and is launching a Community Volunteer Programme, enlisting local medical professionals and community members to extend its reach.

It targets areas with longer response times, providing training, equipment and volunteer support to improve survival rates and reduce long-term disability.

Charity trustee and chair Robert Horton said: “We want every individual in Devon to have access to immediate care when they need it and to have the confidence to act in a medical emergency when someone near them needs it.

“With an aging population, high rurality and tourism hot spots, our region faces unique challenges—but we’re here to meet them.”

BASICS Devon receives no official funding, relying solely on public donations or grants, such as a recent £19,824 from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Above: Some of the BASICS Devon volunteers with a cheque for £19,824 from The National Lottery. Credit: BASICS Devon

In a message to Lottery players, Amie Bull, fundraising manager for BASICS Devon, said: “This funding will help save lives, train volunteers, and build strong, connected communities. From the bottom of our hearts - thank you.

“Your contribution is not just funding equipment or training; it’s giving enhanced medical care, and opportunities to people across Devon.”

To learn more about BASICS Devon or support the charity’s work, please visit www.basics-devon.org.uk