On December 15, 2024 my husband David, who was just 44, passed away from a sudden cardiac arrest. It was a day that changed our lives forever. Desperately, we reached out to the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, trying to locate the nearest defibrillator in order to save him. However, we soon found ourselves in a devastating situation. The information provided to us was incorrect, and we were faced with a locked gate that prevented us from obtaining the life-saving device. This mismanagement and lack of accessible, accurate information was a tragic failure, and a duty of care was missed.

We cannot allow another family to endure such a heartbreaking experience. Sudden cardiac arrests do not wait, they do not discriminate, and they often occur when least expected. Immediate access to a defibrillator can be the difference between life and death. According to the British Heart Foundation, using a defibrillator within 3-5 minutes of collapse can increase the chances of survival by up to 74%.

It is imperative that we implement measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. I am calling for mandatory legislation to ensure all buildings are equipped with accessible defibrillators and that information on their location is maintained accurately on the national circuit. Building owners and local councils must be held accountable for ensuring defibrillators are not only installed but also properly maintained. This includes ensuring the location and availability of defibrillators are up to date and correct.

Implementing this measure will save countless lives. It is a straightforward and achievable goal that requires a collective effort from building owners, councils, and residents alike. Let's make sure no other family has to go through what we did, and let's prevent unnecessary loss of life.

I urge you to join me in making this a reality by signing this petition. Your support could be crucial in ensuring swift legislative action and making our communities safer for everyone. Please sign and share this petition widely. Together, we can make a life-saving difference.