City councillors help fund life-saving defibrillator for local pavilion

The Shenley Brook End ward councillors collectively donated nearly £2,000 from their ward budgets to help Shenley Brook End & Tattenhoe Parish Council cover purchase and installation costs for the new defibrillator.

This will ensure the busy community is better prepared in the event of a cardiac emergency.

The defibrillator will be publicly accessible at all times, allowing for quick use by members of the public, providing clear spoken instructions while emergency services are on their way.

Councillor Saleena Raja, said:

“When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, every second counts. Supporting this project was an obvious choice for us. With the all-inclusive park next door to the pavilion welcoming wheelchair users and families, and so many residents enjoying walks around the lake, this is a space at the heart of the community. This means our community is better prepared to protect one another.”

Fellow Councillor Peter Cannon, added:

“Furzton Pavilion is used for sporting activities and close to Furzton Lake, popular with walkers and runners. Having a defibrillator on site cold make the difference between life and death. This is about practical action that protects our community and helps to keep our residents safe.”

Councillor Sophie Bell, added:

“Community safety is a priority for us. This will give peace of mind to local residents and visitors and really shows how local funding can make a real difference in our communities.”

Public Access Defibrillators (PADs) significantly increase survival rates when used quickly in cases of sudden cardiac arrest.  A PAD gives a jolt of energy to the heart, which can help to restore the heart’s rhythm and get it beating normally again.