STAFF at a charity that helps adults with learning disabilities have successfully fundraised for a defibrillator to be installed on the site.
Jayne Armstrong, 40, business development co-ordinator and James Webb, 20, business management apprentice, from Local Mencap Barnsley on Castlereagh Street, took part in the Great North Run in September to raise money for a defibrillator for use within the community.
James said: “We decided to fundraise for a defibrillator because sadly we lost one of our members this year. I believe that all our vulnerable members shouldn’t be without first aid and lifesaving emergency equipment and everyone in our community should have access to this too.
“That is why we had the defibrillator installed outside on our fence so it is accessible to everyone in an emergency. The Great North Run was a challenging but fantastic experience. It was a great opportunity to raise funds with other people for lots of different worthy causes. I am looking forward to doing it again next year.”
The team raised £2,745.25 which was match-funded by company Bartec Auto ID Ltd which creates tyre pressure monitoring systems.
Matt Woods, operations director with Bartec, said: “We have supported Local Mencap Barnsley since the beginning and we would like to ensure they have the best start in life.
“We spend a lot of time with them and we wanted to help in any way we could to fund the defibrillator on their property.
“We are pleased that they now have the equipment which could save a life.”
