Overview

The Defibrillators (Availability) Bill aims to increase the availability of defibrillators in England and Wales, particularly in educational establishments and public spaces. It mandates their provision, outlines guidance for their use and maintenance, and encourages public awareness of their existence and operation.

Description

This bill places a duty on Health and Wellbeing Boards in England to promote the provision of publicly accessible defibrillators. This includes assessing needs, advising on placement, identifying funding sources, and providing training resources. The Secretary of State is tasked with issuing guidance on best practices, including targets for defibrillator availability and signage.

Key Provisions:

• All educational establishments must have a defibrillator by April 1, 2020.
• All town, parish, community, and neighbourhood councils must provide at least one defibrillator by April 1, 2020.
• Planning authorities will receive guidance by April 1, 2018, on requiring defibrillators in new or renovated educational buildings.
• The bill defines a defibrillator and specifies what constitutes an "educational establishment".
• The bill does not mandate funding for the provision or training.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State under this Act, and any increase in sums payable under other Acts attributable to this Act, will be paid from money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Health and Wellbeing Boards: Responsible for promoting defibrillator provision in their areas.
• Educational Establishments: Required to provide and maintain defibrillators.
• Town, Parish, Community, and Neighbourhood Councils: Required to provide at least one defibrillator.
• Planning Authorities: Will receive guidance on incorporating defibrillators into new or renovated educational buildings.
• The Public: Will benefit from increased access to defibrillators, potentially saving lives.
• Secretary of State: Responsible for issuing guidance and potentially incurring costs.

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