Inverness College UHI has been equipped by a lifesaving defibrillator after a massive fundraising effort.
Head of research developer Dr Melanie Smith, who suffered a cardiac arrest, has been leading the fundraising effort, with activities including a sponsored abseil down the college’s former Longman building.
Now the kit, provided by charity Lucky2Bhere, has been fitted at the campus.
Ms Smith said: “I realised the importance of publicly accessible defibrillators first-hand in 2013, when I was lucky to survive a cardiac arrest.
“I’m very lucky to be here today due to the fast action of my colleagues and the emergency services, and my experience has made me very aware of the importance of publicly accessible defibrillators, which can greatly increase chances of survival.
“I’m extremely proud of all the efforts from all involved in helping us raise the vital funds necessary for installation of the life-saving equipment.”
Although currently no laws enforcing the provision of defibrillators in the workplace, NHS data revealed that just 18.5% of those suffering cardiac arrest outside of hospital survive.
The installation of the defibrillator near the lochans at Inverness Campus provides life-saving equipment for both the college and the local community.