Local Heartbeat Hero: Glenn's AED Training Transforms Communities

 

A stark reality was brought to light after the untimely passing of an elderly resident in the small village of Chorley near Lichfield. Many locals didn't know how to use the community defibrillator, or perform CPR. Worryingly, they are not alone.

Research conducted by Censuswide in 2024 revealed that less than a third of people across the UK know how to use a defibrillator. Additionally, only 4 in 10 people know how to give CPR to someone in cardiac arrest.

However, this sad, local loss set a positive chain of events in motion that has now, potentially, saved countless lives. All thanks to one dedicated first aider.

Glenn Hulse, a passionate Senior Instructor with First Response First Aid (FRFA), stepped up when Chorley Parish Council asked him for help.

What started as a simple training session has blossomed into something of a community movement that's spreading vital, life-saving skills across the region.

A Heart for History and Community

Glenn's commitment to community service extends beyond his first aid work. As the owner of a World War I museum, which he purchased in 2010 and opens to the public on Sunday mornings, Glenn brings the same passion to local history as he does to first aid. He regularly visits schools to share his historical knowledge with younger generations.

This combination of preserving the past while protecting the future, perfectly captures Glenn's dedication to the communities he serves.

Small Beginnings, Growing Impact

Following the passing of the local resident, Chorley Parish Council reached out to Glenn and asked him if he’d lead an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training session for interested people in the village. Of course, Glenn agreed.

The first session attracted just 7 participants. That said, it planted a seed that quickly took root. Those initial attendees raised £57.00 for Burton Wildlife Trust, combining life-saving education with support for local causes.

Word of its success spread quickly. A second session in Chorley drew 17 people, raising £101.00 for Farewell Church.

Neighbouring Longdon Parish heard about the initiative. They requested their own training. This third session was the most successful yet, with 27 attendees, and £141.50 raised for Gartmore Riding for Disabled.

In total, these volunteer-led sessions have trained 51 community members, raising £280.00 for worthy local causes – a perfect example of communities helping communities.

For Glenn, these sessions are about more than teaching techniques. They're about empowering people. "I am proud to be part of the fantastic team at First Response First Aid. I genuinely love my work," he shares.

More Than Just AED Training

When someone collapses from cardiac arrest, defibrillation within the first 3–5 minutes can mean a survival rate of up to 70% for the patient. By equipping ordinary people with the confidence to use AEDs, Glenn is creating a network of potential lifesavers.

FRFA continues to demonstrate its commitment to community welfare through supporting initiatives like Glenn's AED training sessions. By providing the expertise and backing for these free courses, FRFA ensures that life-saving skills reach those who need them most.

As defibrillators become more common in public spaces across the UK, the need for confident, trained users becomes increasingly important. FRFA's community-focused approach helps bridge this knowledge gap, one village at a time.

Looking Forward

With 3 successful sessions already completed and more likely on the horizon, Glenn's initiative shows no signs of slowing down. Each person trained by FRFA represents a potential life saved. Every penny raised supports worthy causes that further strengthen these communities.

First Response First Aid provides professional first aid training and services across the region, specialising in community outreach and workplace safety programmes. Together, we will create safer, more prepared communities, ready to respond in those moments when every second counts.

 

Want FRFA to host an AED training session in your community?

Reach out to our team at info@firstresponsefirstaid.co.uk or call 01543 372 888 or book online via our AED training page. Discover what’s possible, and start saving lives today.

 

 

Info sources

Censuswide Survey:

https://www.sja.org.uk/press-centre/press-releases/most-people-lack-basic-life-saving-skills-finds-new-St-John-research/

Survival Stats:

https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/cardiac-arrest-out-of-hospital-care/background-information/prognosis