Volunteer-led | Nationwide | PHECC-approved | Over 100 years of service
St John Ambulance Ireland is a volunteer-led charity dedicated to saving lives, building resilient communities, and delivering high-quality pre-hospital care across Ireland.
For over a century, we have supported communities throughout Ireland through first aid training, event medical services, and emergency care. Today, our volunteers continue that mission in towns and cities nationwide—providing professional, compassionate care whenever and wherever it is needed.
We are part of the global St John Ambulance family, an international organisation with over 500,000 volunteers in more than 20 countries, united by a shared commitment to service, excellence, and humanity.
Our Heritage
St John Ambulance has its roots in a long tradition of care inspired by the historic Order of St John. In Ireland, that tradition has been lived out for over 100 years through volunteers serving their communities with skill, compassion, and dedication.
From early first aid training initiatives to today’s modern, regulated pre-hospital care, St John Ambulance Ireland continues to build on this legacy—combining heritage with contemporary clinical excellence.
What We Do
Event Medical Services
We provide professional medical cover at events of all sizes across Ireland, working closely with event organisers and statutory emergency services to ensure public safety.
As a PHECC-approved organisation, we deliver care at all clinical levels, including:
- Cardiac First Response
- First Aid Response
- Emergency First Response
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Paramedic
- Advanced Paramedic
Training & Education
We believe that first aid is a life skill everyone should have. Each year, we train thousands of people in essential, potentially life-saving skills.
Our courses include:
- First Aid Response
- Cardiac First Response
- Emergency First Response
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Baby & Toddler First Aid
- Manual Handling
- Fire Warden Training
- Mental Health First Aid
All programmes are delivered in line with Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) standards and reflect national and international best practice.
Supporting the Next Generation
We are proud to support young people through our cadet programmes, helping them develop life-saving skills, confidence, and a strong sense of community service.
How We are Organised
St John Ambulance Ireland is a professionally run, volunteer-based organisation. Our work is delivered through local Divisions across the country, providing a visible and trusted presence in communities nationwide.
The organisation is governed by a Board of Directors and led operationally by a volunteer CEO (Commissioner), supported by a small team of staff.
Our national medical and training faculty ensures strong clinical governance and maintains the highest standards of care across all our services.
Our Impact
Every day, our volunteers:
- Provide vital medical support at events
- Equip communities with life-saving skills
- Support public safety alongside statutory services
- Serve with professionalism, care, and compassion
For generations, communities across Ireland have trusted St John Ambulance to be there when it matters most.
Volunteer With Us
St John Ambulance Ireland is powered by volunteers. People from all walks of life come together to learn life-saving skills, support their communities, and be part of a nationally respected organisation.
As a volunteer you can:
- Train in first aid and pre-hospital care
- Provide medical cover at events
- Support your local Division
- Develop new skills, confidence, and friendships
Whether you’re looking to give back, gain experience, or be part of something meaningful, there is a place for you in St John Ambulance Ireland.
Get Involved
Whether you want to learn first aid, volunteer your time, or arrange medical cover for an event, St John Ambulance Ireland is here to help.
Join us. Train with us. Work with us.
