Becoming a Responder is easy. All you need is a desire to help out in your local community, wider county area and a road legal 4×4. No previous experience or special equipment is required, we will provide you with the basic training required before you
can Respond to tasks. You must fulfil these basic requirements to be a Responder:Own a road legal 4×4 (taxed, MOT’d and insured)
Hold a full driving license (valid in the UK) for 3 or more years. Have accrued no more than 6 Penalty points.
I don’t fulfil the basic requirements or don’t have a 4×4?
Consider becoming a Support Member. As a support member you can become one of our dispatch controllers, be a fundraiser, work with out publicity team, or provide welfare support for Responders on extended call outs.
Is my vehicle suitable?
Whether your 4×4 is a completely standard family car or a heavily modified off road capable vehicle, it can play a role. Our Controllers will pick the most appropriate grade of vehicle for the task at hand be it transporting health care professionals or providing traction assistance over muddy ground.
Do I need to modify my vehicle?
We do not expect any Responder modify their vehicle or spend vast sums of money of equipment to become a Responder. All we ask is that you ensure you own and carry a minimum of basic equipment:
- Each vehicle is road legal, Tax, MOT, Insurance
Appropriately insured. Check with your insurance company that your policy covers volunteer response duties. A standard policy covering Social, Domestic and Pleasure, and commuting may not be suitable in all cases (Most companies don’t charge if additional cover is needed) - Kept in good mechanical condition including any auxiliary equipment carried. Is clean and presentable when responding.
- Equipped with a fixed rear recovery point (A correctly fitted towing ball is a minimum)
- Equipped with a fixed front recovery point where practical. This may not be possible on all vehicles. The manufacturers towing eye is not suitable.
- Carrying suitable equipment for the role you may have to perform. This may include recovery equipment, safety equipment, hot refreshments and snacks and be even a book to read!
- All on board equipment securely stowed to protect yourself and any passengers you may have to carry.
- Fitted and working seat belts on all seats if you expect to carry passengers.
- Vehicle ID fitted front and rear. These are you HR numbers which you will be issued with when you become an active Responder.
If you have questions or require some advice, our forum community will always be happy to help.