Worthing Responder Champions Campaign to Close CPR Gender Gap

A community first responder in Worthing is advocating for a campaign aimed at addressing the gender disparity in CPR treatment during cardiac arrests. Research indicates that women are 27% less likely than men to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from bystanders, a gap that campaigners are determined to close.

Campaign Highlights Gender Inequality in Emergency Situations

The initiative, known as #BraOffDefibOn, was launched in 2022 with the intention of raising awareness and normalising the removal of bras when using a defibrillator in emergency situations. Campaigners assert that stigma and uncertainty surrounding this issue contribute to the lower rates of CPR provided to women. The ultimate goal is to ensure that women receive the same chance of survival as men in life-threatening situations.

Sally Holmes, a community first responder, has been instrumental in this effort. She has conducted 54 sessions this year alone, training a total of 1,165 people in the essential skills of CPR and defibrillator use. Holmes emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to act swiftly during emergencies. “Our goal is to give people the confidence to act quickly and save lives,” she stated.

Breaking Taboos and Promoting Equality

Holmes believes that teaching CPR not only equips people with life-saving skills but also helps to dismantle social taboos surrounding the treatment of women in medical emergencies. “I’m passionate about giving people the confidence to carry out CPR and use a defibrillator which could save a life,” she added. Her commitment underscores the vital role that community training can play in addressing these inequalities.

The campaign’s founder, Jenny Legg, who is a learning and development professional, reinforces the urgency of this message. “Removing a bra can make the difference between life and death,” she explained. This stark statement highlights the critical nature of the campaign, which seeks to educate the public about the practical steps that can be taken to ensure equitable treatment during cardiac emergencies.

As this initiative continues to gain traction, advocates hope that increased awareness will lead to more women receiving timely CPR. The efforts of individuals like Sally Holmes and Jenny Legg are crucial in driving change, ultimately aiming to save lives and promote gender equality in emergency response.

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