Life-saving defib in Christchurch Park

A new public defibrillator has been installed in the town’s Christchurch Park, following funding by the Ipswich Branch of the Oddfellows and the support of Ipswich Borough Council. According to the British Heart Foundation, in some instances, every minute that passes without CPR or defibrillation reduces the chances of surviving a cardiac arrest by up to 10 per cent, but immediate CPR and defibrillation can more than double the chances of survival.

“The statistics speak for themselves. Being able to get hold of a defibrillator quickly can make all the difference to survival,” said Wendy Atkins from the local friendship society Ipswich Oddfellows.

“Our greatest wish is that it’ll never be used but on the other hand if it is needed in an emergency then we hope it’ll be the life saver it’s intended to be.

“We’d like to say thank you to Saskia Stent in neighbouring Ipswich Museum, for her unstinting efforts in finding a suitable home for the device. And also to Ipswich Borough Council for agreeing to install it in the park.”

Lisa Stannard (Operations Manager of Parks and Cemeteries Dept) said, “We are very pleased to have received the defibrillator and it’s been installed in the Arboretum”

The device can be found on the wall of the toilet block in the Upper Arboretum, close to the band stand and the entrance directly opposite Ipswich School.

The money to buy the defibrillator was raised by members during Wendy’s time as Chairman of the Ipswich Oddfellows.

Wendy added, “This year, we’re raising money for Suffolk Wildlife Trust, as chosen by the present Chairman Teresa Marrable. Last year members donated to the St Elizabeth’s Hospice by having a “Little Hoot” in our High St window.

To find out more about Ipswich Oddfellows’ social events, local activities and fundraising for the community, get in touch with Lynne Wyatt on 01473 251867, email ipswich.branch@oddfellows.co.uk or visit www.oddfellows.co.uk.