Local scheme raises funds for life-saving resources

A major fundraising campaign is set to raise tens of thousands for life-saving equipment and local responder groups.

Lincolnshire Co-op is supporting these causes until Saturday 6th March 2021 through its Community Champions scheme.

The Society has identified areas throughout the county and beyond that are lacking life-saving emergency equipment. Around 20 brand new community defibrillators will be purchased and installed in largely rural areas using the money raised through the scheme.

Money raised will also fund the maintenance, such as replacing batteries and pads, of approximately 60 existing defibrillators at Lincolnshire Co-op branches and ensuring they’re registered correctly, so anyone who needs quick access to this critical equipment can easily find the nearest one.

Lincolnshire Co-op’s Community Manager, Sam Turner says: “It’s important to us to continue working with local communities and identifying causes that would benefit from extra support, whether that be practical or financial. Access to defibrillators is critical in isolated, rural areas where emergency services can’t respond as quickly.

“You never know when any one of us may need these resources or services. We’re delighted to be raising funds together with members and customers for such important causes.”

In areas that don’t require a defib, funds will be raised for local responder groups. These charities provide a wide range of local emergency services, including reacting to medical emergencies, floods, adverse weather events, and supporting vulnerable people during the pandemic.

One of the causes that will benefit from this scheme is LIVES, which provides emergency medical care across Lincolnshire. The charity estimates that one in six people in Lincolnshire have used their services.

LIVES Community Fundraising Manager, Rachel Hay says: "Part of our job is to train members of the public to help provide medical care for the people locally before an ambulance arrives.

“Additional funds would help us take on more first responders and cover the costs of training and equipment.”

Until Saturday 6^th March 2021, every time a member shops at a Lincolnshire Co-op branch, a donation is made to either the defibrillators scheme or responder groups. Money will be also be raised through colleagues' fundraising activities, collection boxes in outlets, and proceeds from the sale of plastic carrier bags in stores.

Find out which cause your area is fundraising for here.