Philip Dunne MP is encouraging community organisations in South Shropshire to apply for funding for Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).

Philip Dunne MP is encouraging community organisations in South Shropshire to apply for funding for Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).

The government have launched the application process for the Community Automated External Defibrillators (AED) fund, so community organisations can now apply for a grant to fund a life-saving defibrillator for their local area. Applications for funding can be made at www.defibgrant.co.uk/#apply

Mr Dunne said:

“Defibrillators provide vital treatment, with latest research showing that use of these devices within three to five minutes of a cardiac arrest increases the chance of survival by over 40%.

“Many communities across South Shropshire have already installed defibrillators, but many have not. I encourage those local community organisations which have not already secured a defibrillator to apply for funding, to ensure even broader provision of AEDs across South Shropshire.”

Backed by £1 million of government funding, the defibrillator grant will provide at least 1,000 new defibrillators for community spaces across England. Each new defibrillator will be externally mounted to enable 24 hour access by members of the public.

To receive funding, community organisations will be asked to demonstrate that defibrillators will be placed in areas where they are most needed, such as rural areas, places with high footfall or spaces for vulnerable people. Examples include town halls, community centres, local shops, post offices and local parks, as these spaces ensure that defibrillators are evenly spread throughout communities and easily accessible if someone is experiencing an unexpected cardiac arrest.