1st Westgate on Sea Scout group is now able to help others in the community after a generous donation by NatWest Bank of an automated external defibrillator (AED).
The device, installed outside the scout premises in St Crispens Road, is accessible to all members of the community should anyone suffer from a cardiac arrest.
Jimmy Robertson, head of branch network at NatWest said: “Part of our purpose is to support our communities and we know local access to a defibrillator can play a lifesaving role in helping someone experiencing a cardiac emergency.
“We have worked closely with organisations including the British Heart Foundation and St Johns Ambulance to select appropriate sites in the UK where a defibrillator would be most welcome.
“1st Westgate on Sea Scout group will be paying for the maintenance costs of the AED, and are proud to be able to support the local community in this way.”
As part of the unveiling of the unit, Cubs and Scouts were trained in using an AED and in how to administer CPR in an emergency, working towards units of their first aid badge in the process.
Gavin Wallis, Akela at 1st Westgate, said: “People should not be worried about using a defibrillator in an emergency as you do not need any medical training. The device, once started, is designed to be easy to use, talking you through the process step by step to help you in a person’s moment of need.”
Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and volunteers at 1st Westgate were joined by John Kennedy, NatWest Branch Manager – Margate, Chloe Wheatley from Westgate on Sea Town Council and Thanet First Responders at a recent unveiling event.
1st Westgate Scouts is always looking for new young people aged 6-14 to join the thriving group., Volunteers are also welcome to help support the group. If you would like to support young people to learn Skills4Life and you want to make new friends then email [email protected].