06 May 2026
A new 24/7 publicly accessible defibrillator has been installed by London Colney Women’s Institute outside the Caledon Community Centre, where they hold their meetings.
Campaigning is a core value of the WI, and the London Colney group is supporting the national Bystanders Can Be Lifesavers initiative. Each year, more than 30,000 people in the UK suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Fewer than one in 10 survive, with women facing even lower survival rates.
Determined to make a difference, members worked closely with London Colney Parish Council, particularly environment and neighbourhood officer Matt Fisher, whose guidance and support helped bring the project to fruition. The group set out to raise £1,100 to fund the defibrillator, a secure cabinet, and a bleed kit, benefiting from a subsidised price made possible through a grant.
Fundraising efforts included donations, raffles, bring-and-buy sales, auctions, and community events.
Treasurer Sarah Mugele explained: “Because we were so passionate about the cause, it took just six months to reach our target. Our group of ladies were elated by this achievement; this was by far the proudest moment for our members.”
President Hilary Gilson added: “This was a big and exciting project for us. While our fundraising usually supports speakers and group activities, this year every member voted to back the Bystanders Can Be Lifesavers campaign. We wanted to give back to the village we live in and love. If even one life is saved, it will have been worth it.”
To complement the initiative, Danny Hyde of Emergency First Aid Training generously delivered a CPR workshop for members, waiving his fee in support of the cause.
The defibrillator will be maintained by the Parish Council and is registered on The Circuit.
Residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the location of their nearest device via www.defibfinder.uk, as rapid access in an emergency can be critical.
London Colney WI meets at 7.15pm on the second Tuesday of each month at the Caledon Community Centre. For more information or to become a member, contact londoncolneywi@gmail.com.
Group photo credit: Logan Ahern Nicol
