Fakenham sisters all save lives as community first responders for Norfolk ambulance service

Meet the life-saving trio who are making a difference to a town - and they are all sisters.

Hayley Penney, 38, Christina Sayce, 37, and Claire Armiger, 35, from Fakenham, volunteer as community first responders (CFR) for the East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST).

Each tends to medical emergencies in the area, providing vital support to patients before crews arrive.

Hayley was the first to join in April last year, having already spent 18 years working for the NHS.

She was then joined by Claire, who started the following June in Holt and later moved to the Fakenham group.

Eventually, Christina completed the triad in October.

"Volunteering as a CFR is incredibly rewarding – I've learnt so much from the experience,” said Hayley, who is an NHS business support manager.

“Being able to give my time, care, and reassurance during someone’s most vulnerable moments is a powerful feeling, and I'm proud to make a difference close to home."

Claire, who is a teaching assistant for children with disabilities, volunteered after she witnessed someone close to her in a serious medical emergency.

She says it left her feeling “unprepared to deal with the situation”.

"I joined EEAST as a volunteer CFR because I wanted to give something back to the NHS and my community, while gaining the priceless skills and knowledge for my family,” she added.

As for Christina, she knew nothing about being a CFR until Hayley started - but she wanted to gain more knowledge and skills.

In her regular job, she is a support worker for adults with disabilities.

“I am enjoying my journey so far, and would like to see where I can go with more training,” she said.

“I feel proud to be part of a wonderful team to help the community."

Those interested in volunteering can find out more on the East of England Ambulance Service Trust website here.