A defibrillator has been installed in an estate in Newtownards.
The device, at Glen Ward Community Development Association’s community house, was installed at the building on Glenard Road by PK Murphy Construction Ltd as a contribution to social values locally, in line with their contract with the Housing Executive.
Glen Ward Community Association runs events in the estate including youth nights, a lunch club and cooking classes. With support from the Housing Executive, the group developed a community garden, and has worked closely with the local Men’s Shed to build raised beds for growing vegetables.
Beth Campbell, chairperson at the association, said: “Our community house is a hub for many events throughout the week, and we’re pleased to now have this new defib available for the community.
“We’re part of the Housing Executive’s Housing Community Network, and through this local group we were made aware that PK Murphy was willing to install the device for us, making the Glen estate a safer place for all.”
Eileen Thompson, area manager at the Housing Executive, said: “The health and wellbeing of our communities is a top priority for us. We know that many cardiac arrests happen in residential settings, and immediate intervention is necessary to save lives.
“Defibrillators improve survival rates dramatically so we’re delighted that all our estates in Newtownards will soon be equipped with them. These will no doubt save lives in our communities.”
