Royal Recognition for Life-Saving Defibrillator Initiative
By Jill Dando News
The Donate For Defib W-s-M Project, a vital community initiative, has reached a significant milestone after nearly a year and a half of operation.
The project, which has been instrumental in installing publicly accessible defibrillators across Weston-super-Mare and surrounding areas, has been met with overwhelming support from the local community, as well as partners such as Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC), Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Charity (DSAA), and the Avon & Somerset Bleed Kit Partnership.
Now the project’s efforts have been acknowledged by none other than His Majesty King Charles III.
In December 2024, Josh Bell, Project Lead for Donate For Defib W-s-M, sent a letter to the King outlining the project's creation, progress, and the installation of 35 life-saving defibrillators with the help of local support.
The letter also highlighted the real-world impact of these defibrillators, noting that some of them have already been used to save lives.
The response from the King was received on Monday, 27th January 2025, and expressed His Majesty’s deep appreciation for the initiative.
The letter from the Palace reads:
“His Majesty The King is always delighted to hear of projects that bring people together to support the health and well-being of their wider communities and is most impressed to hear what the Project team has managed to achieve over the last year.”
Josh Bell, Project Lead for Donate For Defib W-s-M, shared his excitement on behalf of the entire project team.
“Today, we had the true honour of receiving an official letter from His Majesty King Charles III in relation to our outstanding contributions to the local community,” he said. “We are delighted to receive this letter and acknowledgment, and we would like to thank everyone for all their continued efforts and support in working with us to provide a lifesaving service within our local community.”
The project’s success is a testament to the power of community collaboration, and the team remains committed to expanding the defibrillator network and ensuring that more lives can be saved in the future.
With ongoing support from both local residents and charitable partners, Donate For Defib W-s-M looks set to continue making a lasting impact on public health and safety.
