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Accountants lead defibrillator initiative to boost public safety
A Hoddesdon accountancy practice has supported the installation of a public access defibrillator to bring accessible emergency equipment to local communities.
The initiative was led by HB Accountants in partnership with local charity, Hearts for Herts, and a donation from Plumpton House landlord, Clive Martin.
HB Accountants provides valuable advice, expertise and networking opportunities across the Hoddesdon and wider Hertfordshire area. This latest initiative reflects the company’s community-first ethos and their strong commitment to public safety.
The defibrillator is located outside HB Accountants’ offices at Plumpton House, in the Rye House area, and is available 24/7 to anyone in need. It provides the ability to deliver a vital shock to someone in cardiac arrest, significantly increasing the chances of survival before emergency services arrive.
Karen Chase, Director at HB Accountants, said: “Time is critical when someone goes into cardiac arrest, every second counts. This installation reflects our ongoing commitment to community wellbeing and our belief in doing what we can to make a difference.”
HB’s fundraising also had personal inspiration driving their mission.
Catherine Hill, fellow director at HB Accountants, was inspired to act after her father’s life was saved by a defibrillator.
She said: “This is personal for us. Without immediate access to a defibrillator, the outcome for my dad could have been tragically different. We wanted to make sure that same life-saving opportunity is available right here in Rye House.”
With a mix of homes, businesses and high footfall, the Rye House area was identified as a strategic location for the equipment. The defibrillator is registered with the East of England Ambulance Service, ensuring that 999 operators can direct people to it instantly in an emergency.
Residents and businesses have been encouraged to take note of its location and to learn CPR and defibrillator use through available training.
HB Accountants held an event to mark the unveiling of the new defibrillator to help raise awareness of its presence in the community.
Karen said: “We may never know whose life this defibrillator will save, but we do know it’s ready, it’s here and it matters. Our community deserves to feel safe and supported, and this is one of the many ways we’re working to make that happen.”
