Defibrillators

When someone has a cardiac arrest, defibrillation needs to be prompt. For every minute that passes chances of survival decrease by 14%.

Research shows that applying a controlled shock within five minutes of collapse provides the best possible chances of survival.

It means defibrillators, also known as automated external defibrillators (AEDs), need to be deployed strategically in areas of greatest need – areas where there is a high incidence of cardiac arrest and areas where it is difficult for an ambulance to get there quickly.

Rural areas, communities served by poor road networks, areas blighted by traffic congestion or where large crowds gather are all places where we need defibrillators the most.

Raising awareness

Working in partnership with Home Retail Group, our new research shows nearly half of the UK's population aren't interested in applying for a potentially life-saving defibrillator for their community or work place.

We are working on a number of initiatives to urge people to apply for a defibrillator and increase the number of devices across the country so that more lives can be saved.

Funding defibrillators

More than 6,000 defibrillators have been placed in the community since the BHF started donating them in 1996 to complement the work of ambulance services. We know of at least 230 lives that have been saved through our investment.

Grants can support the cost of a defibrillator, but provision must be made by the applicant for ongoing maintenance. Every individual application for funding is assessed by an independent sub committee on its own merit.

For community based groups there is also a requirement that a supervising medical director ensures that controls are in place for adequate training of AED users, with periodic refresher training.

This training and re-training must be provided by appropriately qualified individuals, such as resuscitation officers, community defibrillation officers, medical or nursing staff, ambulance service trainers, or first aid trainers accredited in AED training.

Basic life support skills must also be taught, assessed, and refreshed in accordance with current Resuscitation Council (UK). We run our own HeartStart programme which you can apply for.

For information on how to apply for funding, please get in touch.

Your questions answered

What is a defibrillator and how does it help?

A defibrillator is a life-saving machine that gives the heart an electric shock in some cases of cardiac arrest. This is called ‘defibrillation' and can save lives.  Cardiac arrest is when the heart stops pumping blood around the body.

How do I use one properly?

It’s very easy to use an AED. The rescuer turns the machine on which then gives ‘voice prompts’, telling the rescuer what to do. The rescuer will be asked to puts the pads in position on the person’s chest. These pads detect electrical activity in the heart and will be able to tell if a shock is needed.

Anyone can use an AED, but it is highly desirable that people receive training first. It would be better if more people were trained in CPR, which buys time before defibrillation

Should a defibrillator be kept locked away so it doesn't get damaged or stolen?

We have a policy that AEDs we fund should not be put in locked or code-restricted cabinets.

Is it a good idea for GP surgeries to be equipped with defibrillators?

Research shows that GP surgeries equipped with defibrillators can improve survival by up to 60 per cent if the patient is treated immediately or soon after entering cardiac arrest.

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