The person you’re likely referring to is Maureen Shaw, an 83-year-old former teacher from Northumberland, UK, who volunteers as a mock casualty actor for emergency services training.

The person you’re likely referring to is Maureen Shaw, an 83-year-old former teacher from Northumberland, UK, who volunteers as a mock casualty actor for emergency services training.

Here are some details about her remarkable volunteer work:

  • Who She Is: Maureen Shaw is a retired primary school teacher.
  • Her Role: She volunteers with the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) as a “casualty actor” or “patient volunteer.”
  • What She Does: Maureen helps train paramedics, police, firefighters, and other emergency responders by acting as a patient in simulated emergency scenarios. This involves:
    • Realistic Portrayal: She often dons elaborate makeup (moulage) to simulate injuries like burns, cuts, or broken bones.
    • Emotional Depth: She portrays the emotional and physical symptoms of various conditions, helping trainees practice their communication skills, empathy, and ability to work under pressure.
    • Providing Feedback: After the exercises, she provides valuable feedback to the trainees from a patient’s perspective, helping them improve their approach.
  • Why She Does It: Maureen is incredibly passionate about her role. She sees it as a vital way to contribute to her community and ensure that emergency responders are well-prepared to deal with real-life incidents. She finds it very rewarding and enjoys the challenge of each new scenario.

Her dedication at 83 years old is truly remarkable and highlights the unsung heroes who contribute to the training of our emergency services.

Here are some details about her remarkable volunteer work: Who She Is: Maureen Shaw is a retired primary school teacher. Her Role: She volunteers with the North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) as a “casualty actor” or “patient volunteer.” What She Does: Maureen helps train paramedics, police, firefighters, and other emergency responders by acting as a…