St John Brigade

Volunteers of all ages, trained to help when it matters most.

Join St John Brigade

St John Brigade is a group of volunteers from all walks of life. Medically trained, primarily in First Aid and Home-Based Care, they offer these skills at public duties and community support initiatives across South Africa.

Whether you can commit regularly or step in only when the need is greatest, there is a place for you. We offer two volunteer pathways.

Operational Volunteers

Uniformed members who provide first aid and medical support at events, emergencies and public gatherings. They belong to local groups known as divisions and take part in regular training and meetings. Operational Volunteers are based in or close to South Africa’s larger cities, and the Brigade is currently recruiting in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg.

Requirements
  • Hold a valid First Aid or medical qualification
  • Live in or near Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg
Expectations
  • Provide first aid and medical skills at events large and small where the Brigade has been asked to assist
  • Attend monthly divisional meetings and training activities
  • Complete at least 50 hours of volunteer service each year
  • Be on standby to support the South African Military Health Service in times of major emergency
Benefits
  • Subsidised St John First Aid and Home-Based Care training
  • Regular opportunities to develop and use your skills
  • Membership of a ranked, uniformed family of like-minded volunteers
  • Leadership and soft-skills development
  • Opportunities to earn service awards
  • Invitations to Order of St John events and activities
  • The chance to touch the lives of those less fortunate

Auxiliary Volunteers

Support St John Brigade when extra help is needed during major events, disasters or emergencies. Ideal for qualified people who want to contribute but cannot commit to regular operational activity. Auxiliary Volunteers are non-uniformed, do not attend divisional meetings, have no annual service-hour requirement, and may live anywhere in South Africa.

Requirements
  • Hold a valid First Aid or medical qualification
  • Live anywhere in South Africa
Expectations
  • Be available to assist during large-scale operations or emergencies where St John’s operational capacity is stretched, particularly when called upon by the South African Military Health Service
Benefits
  • 5% discount on future First Aid or Home-Based Care certification courses with St John South Africa
  • Opportunities to attend Brigade first aid and home-based care refresher courses
  • Invitations to selected Order of St John events
  • Membership of a global volunteer organisation dedicated to helping others

Brigade Services

Public & Private Event Cover

First aid and medical cover for events of all sizes, from the Comrades Marathon and PSL football to community events and private gatherings. For a nominal fee, our trained personnel help keep your event safe.

Demonstrations & Awareness

Need a first aid demonstration or medical awareness support at your event or school? Our volunteers are always happy to share their knowledge and skills.

Schools & Business First Aid

We coordinate school and workplace first aid societies, offering certified training and access to national and international first aid award schemes and competitions.

Disaster & Community Service

On call to the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS) in national emergencies. Volunteers also support old age homes, children’s homes, hospitals, clinics and the wider community.

Donation Distributions

In times of disaster we help distribute donations of all kinds to where they are needed most. Donations made through us are guaranteed to reach the people who need them.

The high standard of training given to each volunteer means they are equipped to handle almost any emergency, from a minor strain to a heart attack. For anyone hoping to enter the medical field, the Brigade is one of the best ways to gain early, hands-on experience.

Frequently asked questions

Who can join the Brigade?
We welcome volunteers aged 9 to 70, from all walks of life. Join as an Operational or Auxiliary volunteer, or start a private division or first aid group at your school or workplace.
Do I need a first aid qualification to join?
A valid First Aid or medical qualification is required for active duty. If you are not yet qualified, get in touch anyway and we will point you to the St John training you need to get started.
What is the difference between Operational and Auxiliary volunteers?
Operational volunteers are uniformed, belong to a division, attend regular training and complete at least 50 service hours a year. Auxiliary volunteers are non-uniformed, have no meeting or service-hour commitment, and step in for major events or emergencies. Operational volunteers need to be in or near Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg; auxiliary volunteers can live anywhere in South Africa.
How much time do I need to commit?
Operational volunteers complete at least 50 hours of service a year, plus monthly divisional meetings. Auxiliary volunteers commit only when called on for major events or emergencies.
Does it cost anything to volunteer?
No. Volunteering is free. Operational volunteers receive subsidised St John training, and auxiliary volunteers receive a discount on certification courses.
Can my school or workplace start a first aid group?
Yes. We can help you start a private division, or link an existing school or workplace first aid society to the Brigade’s programmes.
Can the Brigade provide first aid cover for my event?
Yes. For a nominal fee, Brigade volunteers provide first aid cover for events of all sizes. Complete the form below and we will be in touch.
Where does the Brigade operate?
The Brigade has divisions in centres across South Africa. Operational recruitment is currently focused on Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg, while auxiliary volunteers are welcome nationwide.

Want to become a Brigade volunteer?

We accept all persons aged 9 to 70. Join as an Operational or Auxiliary volunteer, or tap into our resources and start a private St John first aid division or group of your own with friends or colleagues. Complete the form and we will be in touch.