JOHN KEARNEY

The challenge

Many rural areas in Ireland are cut off from essential emergency services, due to their distance from cities and major hospitals. The importance of treating trauma victims within an hour of the accident is universally accepted as critical by frontline services, but in many areas in Ireland, the time it takes to reach the nearest hospital is often too long.

Business approach

John Kearney and his community set up West Cork Rapid Response, using local volunteer doctors and resources to provide emergency care that can respond quickly to any accident. The service is provided entirely free of charge in close collaboration with the National Ambulance Service. West Cork Rapid Response's service is cost effective, manageable and highly sustainable.

Goals and objectives

Through the support of The Arthur Guinness Fund, John believes that his organisation can support the creation of similar schemes regionally and eventually nationally to rural communities throughout Ireland. "We currently save one life every month! It is now our intention to help other rural communities achieve the same."

Website: www.westcorkairambulance.ie