Paul Gates, 54, is the chairman of BASICS Essex Emergency Medical Charity, a group of dedicated medical professionals who volunteer their time to provide emergency care to patients in need. The charity, which stands for British Association for Immediate Care, was established in 2010 through the merger of two charities to streamline services in Essex.
The volunteers at BASICS respond to serious cases like head injuries and open fractures resulting from accidents and other incidents. Despite being a small charity, they have 25 doctors and paramedics who work tirelessly to assist the NHS ambulance teams and alleviate the suffering of patients in distress. Over the past five years, they have been called to approximately 700 incidents, providing crucial medical care on the spot.
Paul Gates emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the charity and the vital role they play in the community. He shared a touching story about a patient who had fallen down the stairs and suffered an open fracture on his ankle. The BASICS team worked in conjunction with the ambulance crew to administer pain relief and stabilize the injury before the patient was transported to the hospital.
In addition to recruiting medical professionals, BASICS Essex is also looking for non-clinical volunteers to assist with fundraising, public speaking engagements, and outreach efforts. Those interested in joining the team can visit the charity’s website to learn more about the necessary training and how to get involved.
The selfless dedication of these volunteers is truly commendable, as they sacrifice their precious free time to provide life-saving care to those in need. Their efforts have made a significant impact on the community by ensuring that patients receive prompt and effective treatment during emergencies. If you want to support their cause or contribute to their mission, consider reaching out to BASICS Essex and becoming part of their compassionate team.