East Sutherland medic says north is 'fortunate' to have voluntary network of emergency responders after fears expressed over Lochinver ambulance single-manning

An East Sutherland based medic has responded to fears voiced over staff shortages at an ambulance station in Assynt.

Henrietta Marriott is keen to highlight the presence in the north of Scotland of trained and qualified volunteer BASICS responders, who support the ambulance service.

Mrs Marriott, Golspie, an advanced nurse practitioner, is herself a BASICS responder.

She contacted the Northern Times after reading an article in last week's paper concerning the Lochinver-based ambulance.

Local residents have expressed concern to Assynt Community Council over the single-manning of the ambulance due to staff shortages.

Mrs Marriott said: "It is always a worry for members of the public in remote and rural areas that they might not be able to receive emergency care when they need it.

"I would like to highlight that we are hugely fortunate in the north Highlands to have a network of professionally trained, dedicated volunteer BASICS Responders.

"These are mostly doctors but also some advanced paramedics and nurse practitioners, who carry emergency equipment in their own cars and give of their own time to respond to 999 calls in support of the ambulance service – either when an ambulance crew needs support particularly if single-manned or in the event of a more serious incident where more clinical help is required.

"This team of volunteers is equipped by the charity, the Sandpiper Trust, and receives training and clinical support through BASICS Scotland."

Mrs Marriott, her husband Patrick and daughter Alice, raised £10k for the Sandpiper Trust in 2021.

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