Local councillors have helped Derriford residents acquire a life saving device.
When a group of Derriford residents suggested the idea of having an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) device in the community, prospective local councillor Mark Shayer agreed and ran with the idea. With his wife Sam, councillor Dave Downie, community matron Michelle Beer and local residents Marion and David Leah, the Derriford Community Group was born.
Following discussion with a number of suppliers, Mark collected options for the group to consider. The end result was funding approval from councillors Dave Downie and Jonathan Drean and the purchase of a new Heart Safe defibrillator.
Passanna Weragama, owner of Upland Stores at Derriford, fully supported the idea and agreed that the device could be installed on the outside wall of his shop.
Michelle Beer, community matron said:
“At the heart of working in the community access for all to use a community defib is essential in possibly saving just one person’s life.”
Local charity DDRC Healthcare have offered free training in the use of a defibrillator. Anyone interested in learning more, should contact Mark on 07506 623982 or by emailing markshayer4budshead@gmail.com.
