Defibs4Bristol on BBC Radio Bristol: Simon Speaks to Joe Sims | Bristol Defibrillators

At Defibs4Bristol, we’ve always believed that every second counts when it comes to cardiac arrests. That’s why it was fantastic to hear our very own Simon Brookes speaking to Joe Sims on BBC Radio Bristol, spreading the word about the life-saving importance of defibrillators across our city.

Click play on the video above to listen back to the interview.

The Journey: From First Responder to Citywide Campaigner

Simon’s passion for ensuring Bristol has accessible defibrillators everywhere started in 2018. His motivation? He saw first-hand as a community first responder how crucial CPR and defibrillators are in saving lives. Too often, he witnessed situations where people were left asking, “What if there had been a defib nearby?” - and he wanted to make sure nobody else faced that question again.

Since then, Simon has:

✅ Installed 49 defibrillators across Bristol (with more in the works!)

✅ Revived defibs that had been taken offline due to neglect

✅ Acted as the point of contact for maintenance and support

✅ Worked with communities, businesses, and sports teams to spread awareness and training

One of the most eye-opening moments he shared with Joe Sims was about a Southmead defibrillator that was used twice in one day - a stark reminder of how vital these devices are.

Breaking the Myths: Defibs Belong Everywhere

When Joe asked about the inequality in defib access, Simon didn’t mince words:

🚫 Defibrillators don’t belong only in wealthier areas.

🚫 The idea that they will be vandalised is a myth - if the community installs it, they will protect it.

At Defibs4Bristol, we believe every part of the city should have access to life-saving equipment. That’s why we work closely with community groups and local leaders to find the right locations and ensure long-term support for each defibrillator.

CPR & Defib Training: Knowledge is Power

Defibrillators talk you through every step - but knowing CPR in advance makes all the difference. As Simon explained on the show:

• You must act immediately - start CPR right away. An AED should be used within 3-5 minutes for the best chance of a positive outcome.

• For every minute without action, survival chances drop by 10%.

• Ambulances aim to arrive in 7-8 minutes—every second before then matters.

  
  

Simon regularly runs free CPR and defib training across the city, teaching:

• Local businesses & community groups

• Sports teams like Bristol Rovers & Bristol Bears

• Open community sessions at places like the Greek Orthodox Centre (most recently)

If you want to learn life-saving skills, just reach out to us - training sessions happen regularly, and everyone is welcome!

Get Involved: Bring a Defib to Your Community

We’re on a mission to ensure no part of Bristol is left without defibrillators - but we can’t do it alone! If you're a community leader or part of a local group, Simon is ready to help you find funding and install a defib in your area.

Want to get involved? Visit our website: www.defibs4bristol.com

Need advice? Contact Simon directly via our contact form!

A huge thanks to BBC Radio Bristol and Joe Sims for giving Simon the platform to raise awareness. Every defib installed means another chance at saving a life - and together, we can make Bristol a safer city for everyone.