Astonishment at lack of defibrillator at Alderney's school

Wednesday 15 February 2023

Alderney’s school has no defibrillator and others around the island are also out of action because of poor maintenance.

Concerns were raised in the States of Guernsey this morning.

“Research shows that accessing a defibrillator within three to five minutes from a cardiac arrest increases the chance of survival by over 40%,” said Deputy Andy Cameron.

“Of the 15 defibrillators installed around Alderney at a price around £2,500 per unit, the majority, if not all, have become unusable due to a lack of servicing. This includes the defibrillator at St Anne's school.”

Pictured: Deputy Andy Cameron.

He asked when these would be replaced and whether there would be suitable provision in place to maintain the life saving devices.

Alderney representative Steve Roberts said there were actually six and they were going to be renewed with St John’s taking over the responsibility for that.

He confirmed there was not one at the school - something he had only just discovered today when talking to the headmistress there.

“I find that astounding.”

He later added: “I think that should be addressed this very week and I’ll be on it tomorrow.”

Pictured: Locations of public access defibrillators in Alderney.

A map of public access defibrillators shows they should be available at the Sailing Club, the Football Club, the Golf Club, Victoria Street, Tourist Centre and Island Hall.

Defibrillators will also be available at medical facilities.