Lincolnshire Co-op scheme raising funds for life-saving resources

Lincolnshire Co-op 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 Community Champions scheme until Saturday, March 6.

Money raised will also fund the day-to-day 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.

Sam Turner, Lincolnshire Co-op’s community manager, said: “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 more isolated, rural areas where emergency services can’t respond as quickly.

“We’re delighted to be raising funds together with members and customers for such important causes.

“You never know when any one of us may need these resources or services.”

One of the causes that will benefit from this scheme is LIVES, which provides emergency medical care across Lincolnshire.

Rachel Hay, LIVES community fundraising manager, said: “Part of our job is to train members of the public to help provide medical care for the people locally before an ambulance arrives."

Lincolnshire Co-op branches in Gainsborough, Kirton in Lindsey, Misterton and Morton will be helping raise money for community defibrillators and LIVES.

Every time a member shops in a Lincolnshire Co-op outlet, a donation will be made to the Community Champion for that area.

Money will be also be raised through colleagues' fundraising activities, collection boxes in outlets, and the sale of plastic carrier bags in stores.

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