Community sports clubs are central to our way of life across Barry and the Vale of Glamorgan. You may be aware of the community demand to see a defibrillator sited at every playing field locally. This has stemmed from the tragic passing of Maqsood Anwar last summer and I have been working closely with his family. 

In summary, we are seeking to establish what site/clubs have their own defibrillator and how many need to be sourced. I met a number of sports leaders in the Vale during the summer to discuss this important campaign. I am delighted that new funding of £500,000 has been announced to improve access to defibrillators in Wales and I am keen to support clubs and those responsible for playing fields to apply. The criteria is below and the application deadline is the 30th November 2021.

• Identified with rationale the best place to site a defibrillator (there is currently no defibrillator within 500m of the proposed site)

• Have purchased or fundraised for a heated defibrillator cabinet and it has been installed on an external wall in an area which is accessible 24/7

• Have an electricity supply so that the defibrillator is maintained at the right temperature, to prevent the battery and pads from deteriorating

• Ensure the defibrillator will be available for public use 24/7

• Register the defibrillator on The Circuit database

• Appoint a defibrillator guardian (for regular maintenance)

• Have a backup guardian to cover absence

• Ensure they hold awareness sessions for individuals involved in the organisation/group on CPR/defibrillation skill

Further details about the scheme and an application form can be found at https://gov.wales/apply-for-a-community-public-access-defibrillator Completed applications should be emailed to SaveALifeCymru@wales.nhs.uk  by 30th November 2021.