Callum, an Emergency Responder with the Hounslow Network in West London, shares his inspiring journey into volunteering with St John Ambulance. With a long-standing passion for pre-hospital care, he reflects on the experiences and connections that have shaped his time as a volunteer. From major event medical cover to life-saving first aid advice, Callum highlights what makes volunteering truly rewarding.
My name is Callum, and I’m an Emergency Responder
Emergency Responder Callum shares his journey into volunteering with St John Ambulance, highlights unforgettable experiences, upcoming major London events, and offers essential summer first aid advice.
Introduction
My name is Callum, and I’m an Emergency Responder with Hounslow Network in West London, I’ve been volunteering with St John Ambulance for just over a year.
Why did you become a volunteer?
I’ve always had an interest in pre-hospital care; my school careers advisor even told me I’d likely end up either working on an ambulance or becoming cabin crew. At the time, travelling the world and getting paid for it sounded like the better option, so that’s the path I chose. However, my interest in pre-hospital care never went away. When I saw that volunteering applications had reopened in my area for the first time since before COVID-19, I decided to take the leap and apply - and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve never looked back since.
Volunteers smiling, laughing, and genuinely enjoying being together. That sense of connection and shared purpose is what makes St John Ambulance so special.
What is your favourite memory volunteering with St John Ambulance?
My favourite memory with St John is the people, our volunteers - who are the heart and driving force of everything we do. They’ve made the biggest impact on my time at St John, the time spent with each volunteer, building friendships and sharing experiences. No matter the event, whether it’s a large stadium, a local community event, or a national occasion, you’ll always see the same thing: volunteers smiling, laughing, and genuinely enjoying being together. That sense of connection and shared purpose is what makes St John Ambulance so special.
What event(s) are you looking forward to attending?
I’m most looking forward to supporting events like Notting Hill Carnival and the New Year’s Eve celebrations in London this year. Being part of such large, iconic events and working alongside other volunteers and industry partners while making a difference in such vibrant, high-energy environments is something I’m really looking forward to.
What is your first aid top tip for the summer?
My first aid top tip for the summer is to know the signs of heat exhaustion before it develops into heatstroke, stay well hydrated, and speak up if you don’t feel okay. Taking early action can make all the difference in keeping yourself and others safe in the heat.
Learn more about summer first aid advice.
