Defibrillator relocated for wider community use thanks to kind donations

Defibrillator relocated for wider community use thanks to kind donations by local electricians and community donors


The John Godber Centre is pleased to share that the portable defibrillator purchased last year, thanks to fundraising, has been relocated ensuring it is available for the wider community to use.

The defibrillator was purchased in 2023 and has been housed in the community venues reception office but now thanks to the generous donation of a defibrillator cabinet with funds raised by members of the St Mary Magdalene Church congregation and the kind donation of labour and parts from local electricians, Ken Burrows Ltd (KBL Electrical & Mechanical Services), the lifesaving equipment has been relocated to the outside of the building and registered for use by the wider public in its new location with The Circuit.


The Circuit is the national defibrillator network used by all 14 ambulance services across the UK which enables ambulance services to locate the nearest defibrillator when 999 is called in response to a cardiac arrest. At a time when every minute matters, this information is critical to enable bystander defibrillation to start before the ambulance arrives.


Kim Pears, Centre Manager at the John Godber Centre, said “We give thanks to the kindness of the Ken Burrows team to install the cabinet without charge and to those involved in purchasing the cabinet that means the defibrillator is able to be used and make such a difference to someone and their loved ones should it ever be called upon to be needed. As a registered charity, and as for many, times are financially challenging and thanks to this kindness and generosity this vital piece of equipment is now able to be relocated to a more easily accessible location and made available 24/7 for the people of the wider town and isn’t just restricted to our opening hours. There are many people who use the building, and we have the peace of mind knowing it’s here but we’re so grateful to know it could also help someone else in our wonderful community if ever needed”


The defibrillator itself was purchased last year thanks to funds raised by Hucknall U3A plus the generosity of an anonymous donor. The John Godber Centre is a registered charity, and the equipment was originally purchased in case it was needed for users of the well-used and loved community venue at the heart of Hucknall. The Centre is home to over 50 groups and businesses and used for private parties, events, live theatre and shows as well as activities for all ages throughout the week.


The defibrillator chosen allows for the use on children and adults without the need to change pads. There is a switch on the device to change quickly between adult and paediatric mode, which in an emergency situation could save crucial time and anxiety for the user, rather than having to change physical pads. The John Godber Centre hosts numerous groups and classes including fitness groups, elderly social activities, children’s activities, and baby groups so this defibrillator was an excellent solution for the venue.


“The kindness of those who have helped us be able to relocate the defibrillator continues the generosity of those who raised the funds last year to purchase the equipment and we are truly grateful to every single person involved”


Photo shows Sam Lear from KBL Electrical & Mechanical Service with Tina Holmes and Melvyn Francis from Hucknall U3A


Further information about the purchase of the defibrillator can be read here – http://www.johngodbercentre.co.uk/defibrillator-purchased-for-community-venue-thanks-to-fundraising/


For further information about the groups who meet in the John Godber Centre, including the U3A, the latest what’s on guide can be found on the Centre’s website – Things to do page


KBL Electrical & Mechanical Services are close neighbours to the John Godber Centre and are based on Ogle Street across the road for the venue and have always supported the venue and are the Centres regular electricians for repairs and refurbishment works over the years. Further information about Ken Burrows Ltd can be found on their website