You’re highlighting a wonderful and inspiring human interest story! It’s fantastic to hear about an 83-year-old ex-teacher contributing in such a unique way.

This refers to Derek Coley, an 83-year-old retired teacher from Sheffield, UK, who volunteers as a mock casualty actor for emergency services training.

Here’s more about his fascinating role:

• Who He Is: Derek Coley is a former English teacher, now in his early eighties, who dedicates his time to helping train the next generation of emergency responders.
• What He Does: He volunteers with various organizations, including the South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue service and the Yorkshire Ambulance Service. His role involves:
  • Simulating Injuries: He’s made up with realistic (and often gruesome) theatrical wounds, such as compound fractures, head injuries, impalements, and severe burns. He lies in awkward positions, groans in pain, and responds to paramedics and firefighters as a real casualty would.
  • Realistic Scenarios: He participates in a wide range of training exercises, from car crashes and collapsed buildings to industrial accidents and medical emergencies.
  • Adding Authenticity: His presence adds a crucial layer of realism to the training. It allows responders to practice their skills in a high-pressure, believable environment, learning how to assess, communicate with, and treat patients under stressful conditions.
• Why He Does It:
  • Giving Back: Derek finds it incredibly rewarding to contribute to the training of those who save lives. He sees it as a vital service to the community.
  • Staying Active and Engaged: It keeps him mentally and physically active, offering a unique way to spend his retirement.
  • Enjoyment: Despite the often uncomfortable positions and realistic makeup, he genuinely enjoys the experience and the camaraderie with the emergency personnel.
• The Value of Mock Casualties: Volunteers like Derek are invaluable. They help emergency services:
  • Develop and refine their medical, rescue, and communication skills.
  • Learn to handle real-life stress and emotional responses.
  • Identify potential gaps in their training in a safe, controlled environment.

Derek Coley’s dedication is a testament to the fact that age is no barrier to making a meaningful contribution, especially when it comes to supporting our essential emergency services.

This refers to Derek Coley, an 83-year-old retired teacher from Sheffield, UK, who volunteers as a mock casualty actor for emergency services training. Here’s more about his fascinating role: Who He Is: Derek Coley is a former English teacher, now in his early eighties, who dedicates his time to helping train the next generation of…