All rowing clubs urged to equip themselves with free defibrillators, proposes Dr Ann Redgrave.

In a pressing appeal, Dr Ann Redgrave, the Chief Medical Officer of the GB Rowing Team, has urged more rowing clubs across England and Wales to contact RALPHH Chairman, Richard Allen. The call comes as the demand for defibrillators from RALPHH, a charity with origins in rowing, has surged due to increased interest from other sports.

The importance of swift action in applying a defibrillator to someone in need cannot be overstated. The use of defibrillators can significantly improve the chances of avoiding lasting damage for individuals experiencing heart or circulatory problems. Dr Redgrave emphasizes that contacting RALPHH costs nothing, and the charity provides defibrillators to rowing clubs and schools for free.

Since 2020, the partnership between British Rowing and RALPHH has already provided 16 clubs and three rowing schools with free defibrillators. However, the availability of donated defibrillators from RALPHH is currently under pressure due to the increased demand.

The position of increased demand for donated defibrillators is expected to grow, and RALPHH's resources may continue to be stretched as it attracts interest from other sports. Relying on the availability of a defibrillator 5 minutes away from a boathouse is not considered sufficient, highlighting the need for more clubs to take action.

Rowing clubs can install defibrillators at no cost, thanks to the charity RALPHH. Dr Redgrave urges all rowing clubs and schools to contact RALPHH for assistance in obtaining these life-saving devices. For more information or to get in touch, you can visit the RALPHH website, contact Richard Allen via email (richardallen52@btinternet) or phone (0794 9466795).

Despite the growing demand, no relevant information about the names of the other rowing clubs and rowing schools in England and Wales that have received free defibrillators from the charity RALPHH since 2020 was found in the search results. However, it is clear that the need for these devices is more pressing than ever, and every club and school can play a part in ensuring the safety of their members.

All rowing clubs urged to equip themselves with free defibrillators, proposes Dr Ann Redgrave.