Scott Mann has become a Defibrillator Champion after meeting with the Oliver King Foundation in Parliament, which campaigns to install defibrillators in communities to save lives. Every year in the UK, 30,000 people suffer a sudden cardiac arrest, with less than 1-in-10 surviving.
As part of European Restart a Heart Day, Scott Mann visited The Oliver King Foundation at their launch event in Westminster to show support.
The Oliver King Foundation was setup following the death of 12-year-old Oliver King from a sudden cardiac arrest during a school swimming race, which kills 12 young people every single week.
Early access to a defibrillator is vital. For every minute that passes, chances of survival drop by 10%.
Signing up to become a Defibrillator Champion for North Cornwall, Scott Mann said:
“I am proud to become a lifesaving Defibrillator Champion for North Cornwall. It is vital that we take action to prevent any loss of life where one can be saved.
"It was interesting to hear from the Foundation about how many lives have been saved, including a caretaker at a school who had only received the defibrillator two weeks earlier.
"I will be delighted to work as a Defibrillator Champion, saving lives is a legacy that we can all be proud of.”
Jake Morrison, Chief Executive of The Oliver King Foundation said:
“We are delighted that Scott Mann has signed up as a Defibrillator Champion. It is important that we spread awareness of the vital need for this equipment in our communities. Our Members of Parliament have a great platform and connection in their constituencies to spread this message.
"We look forward to working with Scott Mann and saving lives for years to come.”
Mark King, father of 12-year-old Oliver King who died from a sudden cardiac arrest said:
“5 years ago when my son Oliver passed away from this hidden heart condition, we didn’t know that his legacy would reach this far. We are determined to save as many young lives as possible, so that no other family has to suffer a similar loss to that of ours.”
For more information please contact The Oliver King Foundation on 01517283470 or email [email protected]