LIFE-SAVING DEFIBRILLATORS are the latest additions to the family at two top Delph nurseries thanks to generous fundraising parents.
Swan Meadow Cottage on Slackcote Lane and its sister nursery on Church Street now both possess the vital equipment, which can be used on adults and children.
After almost a year of events including wine and cheese evenings and cake sales, along with donations, the £2,400 needed to buy two machines had almost been raised.
But Anouska Fraser, manager at Swan Meadow Cottage, explained the purchase was made last month slightly earlier than expected after an incident at the nursery.
“Recently a child had a seizure and the ambulance took 27 minutes to arrive,” she said. “The parent arrived from Chadderton before the ambulance did!
“It was partly because the ambulance got stuck coming down Horace Lane and had to turn back, but we have now been asked to be on a red alert so they will arrive quicker via the correct route.”
“All ended well, and the child is fine due to some remarkable attention given by nursery staff.
“However, we decided we needed the defibrillator immediately just in case and ordered one the next day.”
The new equipment will be easily accessible in a display cabinet in both nurseries’ reception areas, and all staff are being taught to use it alongside their first aid training.
Anouska added: “Quite a few of the children at the nursery are prone to seizures or convulsions so it’s vital equipment for us to have.
“But we also want to let the local community know that if they need it they can come in to use it too.
“A government scheme is just starting to make defibrillators compulsory in schools but I’m pleased we’re leading the way here at Swan Meadow Nurseries.
“We would like to say a big thank you to all the parents and supporters who have helped us to reach our goal.” The money raised was matched by Swan Meadow.
Swan Meadow Cottage and Swan Meadow Delph cater for babies from six weeks old in their baby rooms through to toddler and pre-school rooms. For more information visit their website or call 01457 877826.
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