Ballymena BID Teams Up with Knockdene Healthcare to Strengthen Town Centre Emergency Preparedness
Ballymena BID has teamed up with local company Knockdene Healthcare to deliver annual defibrillator and first aid training to local businesses, helping to ensure Ballymena town centre remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
Staff from Wallaces, Front Page Bar, Camerons and Ballymena BID took part in the practical session, led by Laura from Knockdene Healthcare. These businesses are among those that house defibrillators provided and maintained by Ballymena BID, along with an external defib located at the top of Church Street.
This ongoing training ensures more people across the town centre are confident and equipped to act quickly in a medical emergency. Defibrillators have already proven their worth locally, with units being used in real emergencies over recent years.
Participants gained hands-on experience in recognising a cardiac emergency, performing CPR, using a defibrillator safely, and responding to other common health incidents such as asthma or diabetic emergencies. Laura also highlighted legal responsibilities around first aid and the critical role fast action plays in saving lives.
“Having accessible defibs is one thing but having people who know how to use them can truly save lives,” said Clare from Ballymena BID. “We’re proud to team up with Knockdene Healthcare on this annual training and to continue strengthening emergency preparedness across the town centre.”
Laura from Knockdene Healthcare added: “In a cardiac arrest, every second matters. Early access to a defib and someone who knows what to do can make the difference between life and death. It’s brilliant to see local businesses embracing this responsibility and taking part every year.”
Ballymena BID would like to extend a huge thank you to Knockdene Healthcare for their continued involvement and delivery of this vital training.
Ballymena businesses are encouraged to keep a close eye on their emails and the Ballymena Means website for future training opportunities and town centre events, as BID continues to support and equip local businesses. Businesses can also explore the range of services and training offered by Knockdene Healthcare by reaching out to Laura at Knockdene at Laura@knockdene.co.uk.
With more trained staff now located in multiple venues across the town centre, Ballymena is better prepared to respond if the worst happens.
