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Woman’s Life Saved As Defibrillator Outside Old King’s Arms Pub Is Used 3 Months After Being Installed!

21 July 2023

After only installing the defibrillator for their Admiral Taverns Pub just 3 months ago, a woman was given a second chance at life owing to an incredible community effort.

The defibrillator that was used at the scene is mounted on the outside wall at the Old King’s Arms on adjoining Kirkgate, thanks to the Proper Pubs fundraiser launched by Admiral Taverns, seeing more than 80 devices installed at pubs throughout England, Wales and Scotland.

London Hearts have teamed up with Admiral Taverns to help supply this lifesaving equipment in order to spread awareness of cardiac arrest and to ensure the well-being of pub visitors and the local community.

On the 15th July, in Newark, a lady began to feel unwell. It’s understood she was in the area shopping with her two daughters, who sat her down on a bench outside when her condition quickly deteriorated.

She then collapsed and went into a sudden cardiac arrest.

Thankfully, an off-duty nurse and an off-duty firefighter were present and instantly rushed over to the patient to begin CPR as quickly as possible. Police then arrived and closed off the street and chased towards the nearest defibrillator.

In perfect timing, an ambulance soon arrived and paramedics brought the woman’s heart back to a normal rhythm.

An air ambulance landed and the patient was treated by the crew and then transferred to Lincoln County Hospital where expert medical care delivered at the scene continued.

The London Hearts Team hopes the patient makes a full & speedy recovery.

However, not everyone is always so lucky. There are more than 30,000 out of hospital cardiac arrests across the UK every year but less than one in ten people survive. The more defibrillators that are accessible, and the more people trained in how to use them, the better the chance of survival for someone who suddenly collapses from of a cardiac arrest. But sadly, only 15% of the public would feel very confident using a defibrillator.

Mark Brooke, the Director of Proper Pubs, made it clear that community spirit was at the heart of his decision to increase defibrillator coverage, saying:

“We’ve always been champions of the community pub. As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s been recognised that pubs aren’t just somewhere for people to go for a drink, they’re also vital lifelines for the community, bringing people together to support each other. It’s great to see this being recognised through the fundraising, and even better to be able to provide defibrillators to people up and down the country.”

Mark went on to explain how thankful he was to the pubs and their local community groups for coming out and supporting the fundraiser, further displaying his commitment to understanding why pub should start containing defibrillators as standard. Fundraising ideas ranged from traditional tombolas and raffles to sponsored head shaves, seeing innovation and dedication from all involved.

London Hearts now offer a reward programme for all of their customers. If you save a life using a Mindray Beneheart Defibrillator obtained through the charity, they will send you FREE electrode pads! Read more HERE

With survival falling by around 10% every minute without CPR, it’s vital you know the skills to try and save a life. One day someone you love might need help.   

We welcome applications from any individual, organisation or charity around the UK! Apply online HERE

Have a project in mind? Give us a call on 02070432493 or drop us an email at info@londonhearts.org