Trauma Care award presented at the Global Search & Rescue Excellence Awards as the award sponsor

The Blue Light Speakers Agency was proud to present the Trauma Care of the Year Award to South and Mid Wales Cave Rescue Team at the inaugural awards ceremony.

South and Mid Wales Cave Rescue Team accepting the Trauma Care of the Year Award on 16th May

Held on May 16th at One Great George Street, Westminster, the Global Search & Rescue Excellence Awards highlighted the best in global response and celebrated frontline responders and those working behind the scenes to improve disaster response and save lives.

The Blue Light Speakers Agency, represented by Chief Executive and Founder Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch OBE, presented the Trauma Care of the Year Award to South and Mid Wales Cave Rescue Team.

The selfless volunteers of South and Mid Wales Cave Rescue Team were commended for their extraordinary leadership and unwavering dedication during the perilous 54-hour OFD cave rescue in November 2021. Faced with a severely injured caver in a remote, unstable, and confined environment, their team of voluntary advanced first aiders and healthcare professionals delivered exemplary trauma care under extreme conditions.

Despite significant facial trauma, a severe leg fracture, and chest injuries, the casualty was expertly assessed, stabilised, and maintained throughout the arduous extraction, even preserving his body temperature in freezing conditions. Their exceptional medical expertise and resolute teamwork were instrumental in the patient’s full recovery, allowing him to return to his previous level of activity. Presenter Dr Claire Park MBE said this remarkable achievement exemplified the highest standards of voluntary emergency response.

Organised by Fire Knowledge and sponsored by Frequentis, the Global Search & Rescue Excellence Awards was supported by the Institute of Search and Technical Rescue. David O’Neill MBE, CEO of the Institute and a speaker with the Blue Light Speakers Agency, said: “From our own experience, we know that the activities of search and technical rescue are often undertaken through a selfless devotion to duty. Those choosing to work or volunteer in these activities do so for the good of others and rarely seek recognition for their actions. Therefore holding an event that recognises the outstanding contribution of individuals, teams and organisations, who often risk their own lives and comforts for the good of others is invaluable and one in which we are delighted to be a partner.”

Andrew, who also had the honour of hosting the awards on behalf of Fire Knowledge, said: “I am delighted to have introduced the first Global Search & Rescue Excellence Awards which proved an exciting and memorable celebration of search and rescue personnel and supporters from around the world. Shining a spotlight on personnel is the best way to recognise everyday unsung heroes, share best practice and promote innovation and collaboration. We are sure this will be the first of many awards ceremonies and will grow in value and influence.”