Helping Essex’s most vulnerable: Joint Fire and Ambulance support saves lives at home
A groundbreaking initiative between Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) and the East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) is making a real difference to the lives of some of Essex’s most vulnerable residents, by bringing lifesaving care directly to their doorsteps.
Specially trained Community Wellbeing Officers (CWOs) have spent the past year responding to non-critical emergencies, supporting residents who have fallen or are experiencing minor health crises, and carrying out vital home safety checks. Their swift action and preventative care have helped people stay out of hospital and remain safe in their homes, often avoiding more serious harm or even saving lives.
The project has now been extended, allowing the team to carry out their vital work in the community.
In one case, CWOs were first on the scene after a man fell from a ladder and suffered a catastrophic leg injury. Thanks to their trauma care training, they were able to control the bleeding within minutes, undoubtedly saving his life before ambulance and air ambulance crews arrived.
In another incident, the CWOs helped a 95-year-old woman after a fall, recognised signs of a possible cardiac issue, and initiated urgent support. Once the ambulance had arrived, they installed linked smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide detector for the residents which were hearing-impaired, improving long-term safety in their home.
Over the last year, officers Oliver Ingrouille, Keaton Eccles, Adam Woolmer, and Dean Leibbrandt have responded to hundreds of calls. In doing so, they’ve brought reassurance, comfort, and practical support to some of the county’s most at risk individuals, often making the difference between a minor injury and a major hospital admission.
Claire Monk, Live Safe Manager at ECFRS, said: “We’re pleased to continue this valuable partnership, which has already had a meaningful impact on the lives of many vulnerable residents. By extending the programme, we aim to further strengthen community safety and wellbeing, while easing pressure on emergency response services."
Tom Barker, EEAST Head of Collaborative Response, said: “We are delighted to be able to continue our collaborative working with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, by extending the successful Community Wellbeing Officer initiative.
“Since its launch in January 2024, the CWOs have made a massive impact in their communities by getting support to patients who have fallen at home and avoiding the need for unnecessary ambulance journeys to hospital. This has freed up ambulances to respond to more serious emergencies.
“I’m very proud of the work that CWOs do across Essex, not only helping patients back onto their feet but also increasing awareness of fire safety and prevention.”
Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, commented: “Increasing collaboration between all services and partners has been at the heart of our approach to protecting vulnerable people and saving lives in Essex. The Community Wellbeing Officer pilot has been a great success, meaning the services coordinate their efforts and reduce the harm our residents suffer. I’m pleased we are continuing this effective partnership.”
The programme supports the goals set out in ECFRS’s Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP), making sure that those most at risk get the help they need quickly, safely, and compassionately.
As this work continues, both services remain committed to putting vulnerable residents at the heart of their efforts, preventing harm before it happens and supporting people to live safely and independently in their homes.