The Combe Florey Defibrillator Group (CFDG) has successfully installed a third public access defibrillator in Somerset, significantly enhancing cardiac safety across the parish. The group also organized CPR and defibrillator awareness sessions for local residents, joining Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance's network of communities committed to improving emergency response.
Community Response to a Critical Gap
The initiative began after a local resident suffered a medical emergency, revealing a critical lack of nearby defibrillators. Jean, a CFDG member, explained: "We started the group in January 2023, after a parishioner called 999 to report a suspected heart attack and was advised to collect the nearest defibrillator while waiting for an ambulance. At that time, the closest device was 2.6 miles away - approximately a six-minute drive."
Following discussions with Combe Florey Parish Council, the group sourced grants, donations, and began fundraising. Through successful grants, fundraising events, and community support, the CFDG purchased two defibrillators in October 2023 from the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust's rental scheme. In February 2026, the Parish Council donated the cost of a third defibrillator from available Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding, enabling the group to purchase the device from Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.
Strategic Placement Across the Parish
Combe Florey Parish is divided into three distinct areas, each with its own access to and from the A358. The life-saving devices are now positioned at Combe Florey Village Hall, Holford House in Trebles Holford, and The Farmers Arms in Nethercott. Host sites at these locations have supported the placement, ensuring coverage across the parish.
Members remain committed to maintaining the devices, registering them on 'The Circuit' database, providing ongoing training, and securing the long-term sustainability of the initiative. Charlotte Humber, supporter engagement officer, delivered a successful CPR awareness session at The Farmers Arms to equip locals with vital emergency skills.
Impact on Emergency Response
Humber added: "It was fantastic to meet members of the CFDG and their community. Their passion for keeping their community safe was inspiring. Our crew can be anywhere in Dorset and Somerset within 20 minutes, but the care a person receives before emergency services arrive can mean the difference between life and death. A huge thank you to everyone who attended the session and to the CFDG for placing such a vital piece of equipment in their community."
The group's efforts have reduced the distance to a defibrillator from 2.6 miles to within walking distance for residents across all three areas of the parish, potentially saving lives in future cardiac emergencies.
