The FA and the British Heart Foundation (BHF) are aiming to create ‘Heart Safe Clubs’ across the country with a new initiative to supply reduced-price defibrillators throughout grassroots football, including clubs in Essex.

Phases 1 and 2 of this dedicated initiative were a tremendous success and the allocated defibrillators were quickly taken-up by clubs. These two phases were part-funded and The FA have now secured an excellent price through WEL Medical, an official supply partner.

Clubs can purchase life-saving iPAD SP1 Defibrillators for the special price of £695+VAT (usual cost £1,325+VAT). The iPAD SP1 is a nominated unit of the BHF and is supported by the NHS Ambulance Service. The offer closes at the end of this calendar year, so early applications are encouraged to avoid disappointment. Clubs may purchase more than one defibrillator.

As part of the exclusive FA package, clubs will be supported by FA-approved and awarding-winning training videos and assets as well as support from the WEL Medical Field Team. Clubs also have the opportunity to purchase additional items at an FA-negotiated reduced price.

Brendan Walshe, Chief Executive of the Essex County FA, commented: “I am delighted to share the excellent news that Phase 3 of The FA’s initiative to provide defibrillators for grassroots clubs has officially launched this July. Defibrillators are life-saving pieces of equipment and it’s crucial that they are made more accessible throughout football in Essex.”

Let’s make more clubs ‘heart safe’ now! Please register and purchase your defibrillator at www.footballdefibs.org. If you need any assistance, call (03333) 444789.

How to obtain your iPAD SP1 Defibrillator in four simple steps:

* visit www.footballdefibs.org 
* complete the online form which will create your club account so your application can be verified
* once you have registered, enter the ‘Shop’ to order your defibrillator/s, as well as any other items you may need
* once purchased, you can access additional resources and free online training materials