St John Ambulance delivers first aid training to taxi drivers after colleague saved passenger's life

From training to action

Godwin, 70, a valued member of Addison Lee’s professional driving team for 15 years, was transporting a male passenger last October when he noticed something was seriously wrong in the back seat of his vehicle. Acting immediately, he safely pulled over, called 999 and began administering CPR, following instructions from the emergency operator.

Paramedics and police arrived within minutes and took over resuscitation efforts before transferring the passenger to hospital. Godwin later learned that the passenger survived.

The police contacted Addison Lee after the incident saying: “If it wasn’t for the lightning reactions of your driver, the outcome for the passenger would have been very different. Godwin saved the man's life and is a hero.”

Reflecting on the incident, Godwin said: “When I realised something wasn’t right, I didn’t hesitate. I pulled over safely, called 999 and started CPR straight away. You don’t think in that moment - you just act.

“It was an overwhelming experience, but I kept going with the support of the emergency operator and the police officers who arrived. Knowing that the passenger survived makes it all worthwhile.”

Godwin had received CPR and safety training through Addison Lee, which he credits with giving him the confidence to respond quickly and effectively.

“Training makes all the difference. It gives you the structure and confidence to step forward in an emergency. As drivers, we’re part of the community. We’re out on the streets every day - and sometimes that means being ready to help.”

A new initiative for drivers

Addison Lee has confirmed it is strengthening its commitment to emergency preparedness across its driver network, by establishing a new initiative with St John Ambulance to further support CPR and defibrillator skills through a series of training sessions.

Patrick Gallagher, CEO of Addison Lee, said: “Godwin’s actions represent the very best of Addison Lee. We are incredibly proud of him, and deeply grateful for the outstanding work of the emergency services who attended the scene.

“Following Godwin’s act of bravery, we have launched this initiative with St John Ambulance to further enhance first aid knowledge and preparedness across our driver community. We have over 7,500 drivers on the road, and we want to encourage as many as we can to sign up for the training so they feel confident and equipped to respond should the unexpected happen.”

Lisa Sharman, Head of Workplace First Aid Training at St John Ambulance, said: “As the nation’s first aid charity, our belief is that everyone should receive the first aid they need in a health emergency from those around them. By sharing essential first aid skills with drivers from Addison Lee, our communities can become safer and more resilient to everyday emergencies.

“Well done to Godwin for using his first aid training to act without hesitation and play a significant part in saving the life of one of his passengers. We also commend Addison Lee for putting the power of first aid into more people’s hands.”

Addison Lee provides safety and assistance training to its drivers, ensuring they are equipped to support passengers responsibly and safely. The leading ground, transport, taxi and courier provider serves over three million passengers in the capital each year.

Godwin added: “Anyone can make a difference if they’re prepared. I would encourage every driver to learn first aid - you never know when it could save a life.”

For more information, or to enquire about first aid training with St John Ambulance visit our courses and supplies site.