Local Charity Hero Josh, 23, Transforms Hometown into UK Defibrillator Capital
By Jill Dando News
In a remarkable tale of resilience and community spirit, Josh Bell, a Diana Award winner, has spearheaded a campaign that has turned his hometown of Weston-super-Mare into one of the best-equipped places for defibrillators in the entire United Kingdom.
Born with a critical heart defect and given just a 50/50 chance of survival at six weeks old, Josh, now 23, has dedicated his life to ensuring others have the best possible chance at survival.
As the Project Lead for the Donate For Defib Weston-super-Mare Project, Josh has orchestrated the installation of dozens of defibrillators across his hometown, making it a standout example of emergency preparedness in the country.
"Every defibrillator we install is another life potentially saved," Josh explains.
His tireless efforts have not only transformed Weston-super-Mare but are now inspiring a wider movement across the South West Region and beyond.
Born with a critical heart defect, he underwent two life-saving open-heart surgeries at Bristol Children’s Hospital
After surviving against all odds, Josh is now on a mission to give others the same chance at life that he received—this time, through the power of defibrillators.
Now 23, Josh is the Project Lead for the Donate For Defib Weston-super-Mare Project, and his former Consultant Cardiologist Professor Graham Stuart who worked at the very hospital that saved his life is also now our Project Clinical Lead Ambassador.
But Josh's journey has not been easy.
As a baby, after his initial surgery, Josh suffered a stroke that left him facing more health challenges, including surgeries on his foot and a feeding tube for his first year of life.
Yet, it was these hardships that ignited his passion to give back to the community that saved him.
“I feel like every moment I’ve been given is a gift,” says Josh. “Now, I want to use my second chance to save others.”
In 2017, Josh received the prestigious Diana Award for his dedication to charity work, a testament to his determination to make a difference.
He’s raised thousands for Bristol Children’s Hospital, spearheaded initiatives with the Wallace and Gromit’s Grand Appeal, and volunteered for the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity.
Josh was also awarded the South West NHS Rising Star Award in 2020 for his work with Sepsis, volunteering with the UK Sepsis Trust, teaching about Sepsis to local communities and colleges, and working as a Senior Healthcare Assistant at University Hospital Bristol and Weston Foundation Trust, his enthusiasm and dedication were an inspiration to all who worked with him.
Josh is a former Student Paramedic and following a career change now works for Howards Motor Group as a Customer Relations Advisor based in Peugeot Taunton, Howards Motor Group proudly supports the Donate for Defib Project.
Josh is the Project lead for the Donate for Defib WsM Project and his passion and dedication for this project ensure that the project has successfully progressed and has just passed it's year anniversary.
Josh and his team are leading the campaign to place defibrillators in every school and public space across the UK, working with both Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) and Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA).
Josh and his team have already made remarkable strides in their hometown of Weston-super-Mare, where dozens of defibrillators have been installed thanks to their tireless efforts, and with the backing of the local community, the town is now one of the most well-equipped places in the country, with defibrillators readily available to save lives in emergencies and more on order.
“Every defibrillator we install is another life potentially saved,” Josh explains. “It’s a massive dream come true to see these going up in the community. Life throws you challenges, and I’ve had my share. But I wanted to turn those into something positive and help others.”
Through the project, Donate For Defib Weston-super-Mare, Josh has rallied local businesses and residents to fund the placement of these life-saving devices.
His leadership and determination have inspired a wave of community support, allowing defibrillators to be installed in schools, sports centers, and public spaces.
Recently, one more defibrillator was placed at the Locking Parklands Medical Centre, another step in his growing movement.
Despite the challenges Josh has faced, including multiple surgeries and health complications, Josh’s passion and gratitude drive him forward.
“I’m here today because of the amazing work of the medical team that saved me. I want to pay it forward.”
As he works to expand his campaign currently within the South West Region, Josh is a living example of resilience and determination.
Through the mission, Josh and his team hope to ensure that no one has to face the uncertainty his family endured without the best possible chance for survival.
With each defibrillator installed, Josh is giving others the same gift he received all those years ago—the chance to live.
As his story continues to inspire people across the UK, Josh’s dream of creating a country where defibrillators are readily available is becoming a reality.
