Who are Cambridgeshire Search & Rescue?

Cambridgeshire Search & Rescue is a team of trained and dedicated volunteers who provide search and rescue assistance to preserve life both independently and in association with the full time emergency services and other voluntary aid societies and to assist in the relief of suffering amongst persons endangered by accident or natural hazard principally in Cambridgeshire but without geographical limitation.

How do I join Cambridgeshire Search & Rescue?

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply, but you do need to be reasonably fit to be an active searcher. However the group also needs administrators and fund-raisers in support of ‘operational’ members, so if you feel you would prefer to help in those ways please get in touch.

Because of the nature of our activities and close working relationship with the Police, all prospective members are required to complete an application form a health questionnaire and a CRB form for Police use. All application forms are kept strictly confidential. Providing your application is successful you will be asked to sign an undertaking of confidentiality.

What Skills do I need to join Cambridgeshire Search & Rescue?

No specific skills are needed to join, as we provide training recognised to a national standard. Commitment enthusiasm and the ability to work as part of a team are more important.

What Training is available to me?

In order to become an ‘operational’ member and take part in ‘live searches’ you will need to attend at least eight training sessions and then complete a Basic Search Technicians Course. This course will provide you with the training and skills you need to work as a member of a search team (normally 4-6 people). Further training is provided in a variety of subjects including Communications, First Aid, Team Leadership, Land Navigation (use of map and compass) and other associated subjects such as Helicopter Handling. Exercises are conducted regularly to improve team skills.

Is there a minimum commitment from me?

We ask that you make a minimum of 18 months commitment to the team and to become fully operational you will need to attend and pass the Basic Search Technicians Course, a two day course that takes place over a weekend. We appreciate you will be a volunteer, but we do specify a minimum number of attendance at training evenings and exercises during the year. This is to ensure that all members are fully trained and well practised in readiness for ‘live searches’. People’s lives may depend upon your skills.

Do I need any special equipment?

We recommend that you have a minimum of good black boots with ankle support (min 9 eyelets). Uniform and equipment is provided by the team and other sundry items can be purchase at favourable rates from our Quartermaster.

What about Insurance?

When training and whilst on active duty, you will be covered by Insurance. Full details will be made available to you.

Is there a membership fee?

The administration costs involved in running a SAR team is high and in order to alleviate this we ask each member to pay a membership fee equivalent to £2 per calendar month payable in advance each New Year.

Do I have to tell my employer?

Whilst it is not compulsory it is recommended that you notify your employer of your involvement with CamSAR. Many employers recognise that of being part of a professional organisation brings with it many benefits.

What do I do now?

After looking through our website and the information provided fill in an Initial Interest Form online or call 01143 600999 to find out more about proceeding with your application.