Recent Work Keeping Bristol's Defibrillators Ready for Use

Much of Defibs4Bristol's work focuses on identifying suitable locations, fundraising for new installations, and providing CPR awareness training.

However, a significant amount of work also takes place behind the scenes to help keep existing defibrillators available and ready for use when they are needed most.

Recent examples include supporting projects at Westbury-on-Trym Baptist Church, Manor Farm Boys Club, and the Union Arms in St George.

Defibs4Bristol recently assisted Westbury-on-Trym Baptist Church after the committee sought advice ahead of their existing defibrillator support arrangement coming to an end.

The group wanted reassurance around the ongoing management of their defibrillator, including replacement pads and batteries, updating The Circuit national defibrillator database, routine device monitoring, and how the wider emergency response system operates.

We provided guidance and practical support to help the church confidently manage the device moving forward, and also offered future CPR and defibrillator awareness training if required.

The church committee were extremely appreciative of the advice provided as they prepared to take on the ongoing management of this important community asset.

At Manor Farm Boys Club, a fault developed with the existing AED. After identifying the problem, we helped arrange for the unit to be removed from service, returned to the manufacturer for repair, and then reinstated once the fault had been resolved. The AED has since been placed back online and is once again available should it be needed.

Meanwhile, at the Union Arms (formerly the Treble Chance), the pub underwent a major refurbishment. The site is home to Defibs4Bristol installation No.25, originally installed in December 2022 following a generous donation from Herschel Infrared and Paul O'Brien. Notably, the defibrillator was activated within just eight days of being installed.

To protect the equipment during the building works, the AED was temporarily removed and safely stored. Once the refurbishment was complete, the defibrillator was reinstalled and returned to service, ensuring the local community continues to benefit from public access to the device.

These projects may not always involve brand new installations, but they remain an important part of maintaining Bristol's growing network of publicly accessible defibrillators.

Whether helping organisations with advice, resolving faults, or ensuring equipment remains available during building works, Defibs4Bristol remains committed to helping keep lifesaving equipment accessible across the city.