Support Woodbridge College: Helping us protect our students and staff

At Woodbridge College in Bolton, we provide a vital learning environment for students aged 19–30 with significant and complex medical needs. Our community is close-knit, and the safety of our students is always our highest priority.

Recently, the reality of medical emergencies hit home when a member of our staff suffered a heart scare and is currently awaiting surgery. This sobering event has made us reflect on our emergency preparedness and the critical need to be able to respond instantly should the unthinkable happen. To ensure we can provide the best possible care, we are launching an urgent appeal to fund life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for both of our college sites.

Our incredible students and staff are already rising to the challenge, organizing a series of sponsored events and activities to jumpstart our fundraising. We are determined to reach our goal, but we need your help to get there.

Your donations will go directly towards:

Purchasing two high-specification AED units.

Installing secure, accessible defibrillator wall hangers at both sites

Comprehensive emergency response training for our team.

By supporting our campaign, you aren't just buying equipment; you are providing a safety net for some of the most vulnerable young adults in Bolton and the dedicated staff who support them.

Why a Defibrillator is So Important

Each year in the UK, over 30,000 people suffer a sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. Survival rates are low, with fewer than 1 in 10 people surviving.

In a sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. Without immediate CPR and defibrillation, survival chances decrease by around 10% per minute. Early CPR and access to a defibrillator can significantly improve survival chances.

However, public access defibrillators are used in only around 9% of cases, highlighting the urgent need to make these life-saving devices more accessible in our communities.

Having a defibrillator at The Robin Hood – Sheffield pub could make a life-saving difference before emergency services arrive.

How a Defibrillator Will Help the community 

Once installed, the defibrillator will be registered with the local ambulance trust and available for the public to use 24/7.

This doesn’t replace emergency services. Instead, it provides immediate, potentially life-saving intervention while the ambulance is enroute. The quicker the shock is delivered, the greater the chance of survival.

How You Can Support the Campaign

Your support can make a real, life-saving difference. Here’s how you can help:

💛 Make a donation to support the campaign

🎭 Host a fundraising event or theatre performance

🏃 Take on a virtual sponsored challenge

📢 Help raise awareness among friends, family, and the local community

To support this campaign or find out how to get involved, contact us on 01785 472224 or email info@aeddonate.org.uk.

Become a Community Defibrillator Champion

Do you know another area or group that could benefit from a public access defibrillator?

Join AEDdonate as a Community Champion, and we’ll guide you through the entire process, from campaign setup and fundraising support to installation. Funding availability varies by location, so please call us to check what’s available in your area.