We are pleased to announce 106 Kintyre residents in the last 10 weeks have successfully completed Heartstart CPR and defibrillator training courses delivered by Kintyre Heartstart volunteer instructors. This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of both the participants and the volunteer instructors who have committed their time and expertise to delivering lifesaving training. Each individual who has attended the course is now equipped with the essential skills to potentially save lives in emergencies, contributing to a more resilient community.
Heartstart works in close partnership with Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) to deliver important life-saving courses to community members, schools and workplaces. This successful training program has provided services for over 26 years, thanks to the dedication and commitment of Heartstart volunteers who deliver the courses.
Fiona McPhee, who organised the recent training event for Campbeltown Parish Church said: “I want to express my gratitude to all our volunteers and our Heartstart Nurse Lead and training supervisor Angela McNeil for leading such positive and enlightening training. The Campbeltown Parish Church community left the sessions feeling inspired and confident in performing CPR and Defibrillation skills, thanks to Angela’s excellent training skills.
“Heartstart recently welcomed three fully trained volunteer instructors for the Isle of Gigha. They have all undergone rigorous training to deliver Heartstart courses.
“On behalf of the Gigha Heartstart Team, we would like to express sincere appreciation to the Scottish Fire Service for their invaluable support in allowing us to use their premises and facilities for our training courses.”
The volunteers passion for helping others and commitment to making a difference is the success behind all of our Heartstart Teams. Together they aim to create safer and more prepared communities, ensuring more people have the confidence and ability to respond effectively while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Samantha Campbell, Health Improvement Principal for NHS Highland and Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership said: “I would like to congratulate all the newly qualified Campbeltown community members who have completed Heartstart training. I would also like to extend my gratitude to all the past and current Heartstart volunteers for their commitment to teaching invaluable life-saving skills courses across Argyll and Bute.
“I also encourage individuals, businesses, and schools in Argyll and Bute to attend Heartstart Training Courses. These complimentary courses empower individuals with the skills and knowledge of basic life-saving skills in emergency situations.”
Angela McNeil, Heartstart Nurse Lead and training supervisor said: “The remarkable expansion and success of Heartstart volunteers throughout Kintyre and across Argyll and Bute is fantastic. They are all highly dedicated and motivated teams of instructors committed to training as many individuals across Argyll and Bute as possible with invaluable life-saving skills.”
Heartstart training courses are held throughout Argyll and Bute and the islands. If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone about the Heartstart programme, or are interested in volunteering or booking courses email angela.mcneil@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.