Merley Football Club has proven itself to be at the heart of the community by helping to fund a life-saving defibrillator for the Merley Community Centre. Funds were raised at the football club’s annual funday, thanks to the support of the Merley FC players (aged from just 3 years old), coaches, parents and supporters. The life-saving equipment was bought in partnership with the Merley Community Association and the Charity London Hearts.
The defibrillator has now been installed at the community Centre near Fenner’s Field in Merley and this vital equipment will be available 24/7 to anyone in the area who may experience a sudden cardiac arrest.
The equipment is a major investment for the club who can have hundreds of players, coaches and spectators at Fenner’s Field and Merley First School every week. Chairman of Merley Football Club, Paul Dixie, said: “We’re thrilled to have been able to give back to the Merley community with this essential piece of lifesaving equipment, which is accessible to the whole community, as well as the club.
“Creating a welcoming and inclusive community lies at the heart of Merley Football Club. As well as enjoying football, our whole club ethos is based on helping the next generation become active and considerate members of society. Thank you to all who support Merley FC and helped us to fund the defibrillator”
Debi Donovan, of Merley Community Association said “Since the newly formed committee, Chaired by Bill Burridge, we have been actively encouraging a more diverse range of hirers and importantly engaging and forming partnerships with other local community groups. This lifesaving equipment is a fantastic asset for the Centre and for the community as a whole, thank you Merley FC.”
The defibrillator is easy to use and provides clear spoken instructions to guide the user through the process. The club are now looking to roll out free life saving skills training, that will be available to coaches, and players from 5 years old.
Studies show that public access defibrillators significantly increase survival odds from cardiac arrest, with a 40% increase in positive outcome when used within 3-5 minutes.
