Croft Sports Centre receives new life-saving defibrillator
The Premier League’s Defibrillator Fund, and support from Jeff Quick Electrical, has enabled Better and Croft Junior FC to install an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at Croft Sports Centre, aimed at helping save the life of someone experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest.
The Fund, set up by the Premier League will enable more than 2,000 sites across the country to install an AED and is supported by The FA and Sport England and delivered by the Football Foundation. The defibrillator at Croft Sports Centre is ready for use now.
While defibrillators are designed to be easy to use, club officials will also receive training through The FA Education’s free online Sudden Cardiac Arrest course and guidance on how to update their emergency action plans.
The new defibrillators will be registered with emergency services so any member of the public can use them to help someone experiencing a cardiac arrest.
Simon Cowdery, General Manager at Croft Sports Centre said: “Whilst we never hope it has to be used, this a hugely important piece of equipment that is available 24/7 and could benefit Croft Junior FC’s players and coaches, centre users, and members of the local community should a serious medical incident occur in the area. It’s extremely important for members of the public to get some training on how to use these devices as it could make all the difference to someone’s life.”
Former professional footballer Fabrice Muamba who suffered a sudden cardiac arrest on the pitch in 2012 said:
“I am a big supporter of the Premier League’s new initiative to fund defibrillators for thousands of grassroots football clubs. I know from personal experience the importance of having access to this type of medical equipment and how vital it is for someone’s survival after suffering from sudden cardiac arrest.
“Educating people how to use defibrillators is crucial. I really hope the clubs and facilities will encourage as many coaches, players and staff to undertake the training provided and help create safe places to play the game we all love.”
The Premier League, Football Association and Sport England will work together to ensure that facility developments funded by the Football Foundation incorporate this equipment in the future.
At least 12 young people, between ages 12-35 years, die of undiagnosed cardiac conditions in the UK every week. Over 30,000 people of all ages suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital every year and less than one in ten survive.
To find out more about how to complete The FA Education Sudden Cardiac Arrest online course please click here.