Orkney's MSP backs lifesaving CPR campaign to mark Heart Month

Orkney's MSP, Liam McArthur, is urging people in Orkney to show their support for the British Heart Foundation this Heart Month by learning how to carry out lifesaving CPR through their new tool, RevivR.

To mark Heart Month, the BHF have unveiled the first-of-a-kind tool which helps the public learn this lifesaving skill for free in just 15 minutes. RevivR teaches how to recognise a cardiac arrest, gives feedback on chest compressions and outlines the correct steps of defibrillator use, giving anyone the confidence to step in and save a life in the event of the ultimate medical emergency.

There are around 3,100 cardiac arrests out of hospital in Scotland every year but sadly just one in ten people survive. In Orkney, around 2,600 are estimated to be living with heart and circulatory diseases. BHF are also encouraging people to 'go red' this month to help raise money for ground-breaking new research.

Commenting, Mr McArthur said:

"Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time and knowing what to do in those crucial moments is absolutely critical, especially in rural and island communities. Sadly, just 1 in 10 survive cardiac arrest which is devastatingly low when we know that CPR and defibrillation can more than double chances of survival.

"We need more people have the confidence to carry out CPR and the British Heart Foundation's new RevivR tool could not make it easier to learn this lifesaving skill. Whether you've never learnt CPR before or are in need of refreshing what to do, I strongly encourage everyone to take the time to take part.

"This Heart Month, I also want to pay tribute to the outstanding work of the Orkney Heart Support Group in supporting families affected by heart and circulatory diseases. Cardiac Arrest in the Young too are making tremendous strides in helping to turn the tide when it comes to young people living with undiagnosed heart conditions."

David McColgan, Head of BHF Scotland added:

"We’re delighted Liam McArthur is backing the BHF’s Heart Month campaign, working together with us to help save and improve more lives from heart and circulatory diseases.

"CPR could be the most important lesson you ever learn. With RevivR, it only takes 15 minutes – that’s a coffee break, half time in the football or the time you might spend scrolling through social media. It could help you save a life.

"Our BHF-funded scientists are also working to find the breakthroughs to help those affected by heart and circulatory diseases. Over the last 60 years, research has turned ideas that once seemed like 'science fiction' into reality. By going red and supporting the BHF this Heart Month, you will be helping to fund vital research that makes a real difference and helps to keep families together for longer."