A lifesaving defibrillator has been installed at Duror Primary School in Appin as part of a community benefits programme being delivered across the Highlands by contractor Union Technical.
The business also provided CPR and defibrillator training to ensure locals are equipped to use the unit when emergency medical assistance is required.
Defibrillators are used to treat cardiac arrest by providing a high energy electric shock to the heart. The chances of surviving cardiac arrest are said to increase to 50-70% if a defibrillator is deployed within the first three to five minutes compared with less than 10% without a defibrillator.
Union Technical supplied the Duror Primary defibrillator as part of a wider community benefits initiative. Last year the business was appointed to deliver Highland Council’s Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (EES:ABS) which offers eligible Highland residents Scottish Government grant funding for energy efficiency measures.
Under the EES:ABS contract, the business is undertaking a retrofit project in Caol, where its team is installing a range of energy efficiency measures in Swedish timber homes on behalf of Highland Council utilising EES:ABS and private sector funding.
The works are designed to make homes warmer, cheaper to heat, and more environmentally friendly. Some properties are expected to see substantial increases in their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, potentially increasing from E to B.
Suzanne Coyle, director of operations at Union Technical, said, “It is extremely rewarding to secure a new defibrillator for the Appin community. As a business, we take great pride in giving back to the communities where we operate by employing local suppliers and making meaningful contributions through donations and voluntary work.
“Our essential energy services have a transformative effect on housing, making properties happier and healthier, and we are committed to having the same positive impact on people’s lives as we have on their homes.”
Union Technical is currently planning its future contributions in partnership with Highland Council. The business previously distributed 50 £40 vouchers to families in need to purchase winter coats and other warm clothing and footwear for children, as well as more than 100 warm home packs incorporating blankets, thermal socks, hats, gloves, scarfs, mugs, and room thermometers.
