RESPONSE BY WOMEN

Evening Star, Issue 23374, 18 September 1939, Page 8

RESPONSE BY WOMEN

ENLISTING IN THE AID SERVICES WORK OF ST. JOHN ASSOCIATION The women of New Zealand are facing right up to their responsibilities during the period of national crisis, for they are enrolling iu large numbers for training in ambulance and allied services. The assistant commissioner of St. John Ambulance Association (Mr W. D. Pirrett) stated this morning that over 2,000 in both Auckland and Wellington had joined the service for training) and that within the nest 12 weeks it was the intention of the Dunedin branch to train the same number. An excellent response had been received from women to the appeal for 50 drivers to take over the duties of men drivers should the occasion arise, said Mr Pirrett. Between 30 and 40 women had volunteered and applications were constantly being received. Some of those applying might not possess all the qualifications necessary, and no doubt some selection would he made, preference undoubtedly going to those women who had training in first aid work. However, those applicants who were suitable in all other respects, but who had no training or knowledge of first aid, would receive the necessary instructions. Training classes are to be arranged to-night at the St. John headquarters in the city, and instruction classes in home nursing, first aid, hygiene, «nd air raid precautions will commence,