New accessible pitch-side defibrillators

Following requests from local community sport groups, ANGUSalive have installed three new Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s) which are easily accessible for outdoor sports.

Community groups reached out to ANGUSalive because they felt that pitch-side defibrillators were something that should be explored as existing AED’s were both indoors and not always accessible should there be an incident outdoors on the pitch.

Ross Taylor, Acting Community Sport and Physical Activity Lead with ANGUSalive, was successful with a funding bid for this, which culminated in positive discussions with St Johns Ambulance Scotland who kindly offered significant investment of 50% towards to cost of installing the pitch-side defibs at Websters Sports Centre, Forfar and Brechin Community Campus. 

Deborah McKinnon, Service Delivery Officer with St John’s Ambulance Scotland said: “When Ross from ANGUSalive approached St John’s Scotland for help in placing life-saving defibrillators at their sporting venues, we were thrilled to offer our support. Their goal was clear: to safeguard the community, knowing that cardiac arrest can happen at any time, even during a game. At St John’s Scotland, we are dedicated to supporting ANGUSalive in this crucial initiative, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.”

Ross Taylor, Acting Community Sports Hub Lead said: “We are really pleased to confirm the installation of state-of-the-art defibrillators across ANGUSalive pitch-side venues. This is not only a response to a community need, but an important investment for us to ensure that, in a challenging situation, we have equipped and upskilled staff, volunteers and coaches on the effective use of a defibrillator which could help save a life”.