Breaking down barriers: ambulance service visits Hertfordshire Minority Ethnic Forum

The Patient and Public Involvement Team (PPI) have thanked staff for helping at a recent visit to the Minority Ethnic Forum in Hertfordshire, and want others to step forward too.

PPI Manager Sotu Marshall-Wyers and Community Partnership Training Officer Simon Marshall have spent one day per week over the last three weeks visiting different black and minority ethnic (BME) groups of all ages, teaching basic knowledge about the service and what we provide.

The forum provides services to improve the quality of life of BME people. These include information, advice and guidance on housing, benefits, employment, education, training and health matters.

Speaking on the success of these recent visits, Sotu said: “I’m delighted how well these events have not only been attended but received; there has been a good level of engagement across all ages and we are hoping for more of the same in future events.”

Simon added: “I’ve been really impressed with everyone’s knowledge and attention that they’ve given to the subjects we’ve covered. Each week they’ve really engaged in the activities and have demonstrated some great basic life-saving skills including recovery position and CPR."

He added: "The children have also shown a great understanding in when not to and when to call an ambulance."

If you are interested in getting involved, email Sotu.Marshall-Wyer@eastamb.nhs.uk

Published 26th August, 2016