Clear! Community Public Access Defibrillators get a jump start in new developments across the Cotswold District

According to the British Heart Foundation, there are over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually in the United Kingdom where emergency medical services attempt to resuscitate victims. Sadly, the survival rate is very low and every 1-minute of delay can reduce the chances of survival by 10%.

Cllr Tom Stowe, ward member for Campden & Vale, said: “Early use of External Defibrillators can double the chances of survival. Given the rural nature of our district, the chances of swift medical intervention from emergency services are limited. Access to a network of CPADs, that can be accessed swiftly, is vital to safeguard the health and well-being of our residents.”

With ongoing and future development throughout the district, keeping up with the installation of new CPADs is vital although it can often be a very difficult task.

Councillor Rachel Coxcoon, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Forward Planning, said; “We will look to include the provision of CPADs in the updated Local Plan, which will be consulted on next year. The updated Local Plan will ensure that new housing developments over a certain size and beyond a certain distance from an existing CPAD will be required to supply and install a new CPAD.”

As part of the Local Plan update the Council will further encourage development proposals  to support healthy lifestyles and deliver appropriate health infrastructure. This includes  better connecting places and creating more social and green spaces that are inclusive and accessible for all ages and abilities.

The next stage for the Local Plan is a public consultation in 2023 and subsequent submission to the Planning Inspectorate for Examination.

For more information about the Local Plan, visit: cotswold.gov.uk/localplan 

You can apply to the Council for a defibrillator grant towards the community purchase of defibrillators, up to a maximum grant of £625. Applications can be submitted at any time. Contact your local district councillor for more details.