Vennture is training 16 and 17-year-olds to provide medical assistance to those in need during nights out in the city.

Seventeen young volunteers from Vennture’s Lean on Me programme will soon join the Street Presence team on Fridays and Saturdays between 6:30pm and 3am. Operating from a specially adapted mobile unit, Lean on Me is part of a wider partnership involving local businesses, specialist services, the church, and police — all working together to make Hereford’s night-time economy safer.

With two of seven training sessions already complete, the volunteers are expected to begin shifts by the end of November. Their training covers emergency first aid, mental health, safeguarding, manual handling, and recognising health conditions that may appear as alcohol or drug misuse. Each recruit must pass three accredited courses and they take part in scenario-based practice and role play.

Initially, the young volunteers will finish by 11pm, before moving to later shifts once they turn 18. All Lean on Me participants operate under the supervision of an experienced adult volunteer.

Imogen Abbott from Vennture said: “We’re always looking for adult volunteers who want to make a difference in their community and help develop young people. Adult team members help coordinate responses to CCTV and support young volunteers offering emotional and practical help to anyone who needs it — from providing water and first aid to signposting vulnerable people to specialist services.”

Imogen added that Lean on Me offers lasting benefits: “Volunteers gain valuable experience for healthcare careers, and many continue supporting Vennture through further volunteering or internships.”

Trainees describe the experience as: “Truly rewarding — being part of such a supportive team has been amazing.” “A great way to show enthusiasm for health and social care when applying for related careers.” And, “The first aid training has already helped me in my new job.”

The overall aim of Lean on Me is to ease pressure on emergency services through early intervention. So far this year (2025), the charity has responded to 245 incidents and prevented 24 emergency callouts.

Adults interested in volunteering can contact volunteering@vennture.org.uk.