In a significant step towards enhancing public safety, Scotia Homes has funded and installed a Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) at Aviemore’s Macdonald Golf Course. This initiative is aimed at improving the safety and wellbeing of both golfers and the local community by ensuring quick access to life-saving equipment in the event of a cardiac emergency.

Public Access Defibrillators are essential in responding to sudden cardiac arrests (SCA), a condition where the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively. SCAs can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. Having a defibrillator nearby can make the difference between life and death. According to the Resuscitation Council UK, early defibrillation within 3–5 minutes of a collapse can boost survival rates by as much as 50–70%.

Jonny Chaisty, Heads of Golf at Macdonald Spey Valley Championship Golf Course, comments: "It's not something we ever hope to use, but knowing we have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), accessible 24/7, brings a huge sense of comfort.

"On behalf of Macdonald Spey Valley Championship Golf Course staff, members, visitors and local community, I would like to thank Scotia Homes for their generosity in donating this potentially life-saving piece of equipment.

"The AED is registered with Scottish Ambulance Service, if the defibrillator is needed, call 999, quote the location name, 'Macdonald Spey Valley Golf Clubhouse, PH22 1ST', and they will share the code."

The availability of a defibrillator at Macdonald Golf Course ensures that rapid intervention is possible in critical moments. The device delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart, helping restore a normal heartbeat in those who suffer from cardiac arrest. Every minute without defibrillation decreases the chances of survival by 10%, making immediate access to PADs crucial.

Scotia Homes’ commitment to community wellbeing is evident through this contribution. Beyond the golf course, the defibrillator is accessible to the broader Aviemore community, ensuring that it can be used in emergencies by anyone nearby. As golf courses and other large open spaces are common places where individuals of all ages gather, the presence of a defibrillator is especially beneficial.

The installation of this defibrillator is not just a piece of equipment but a statement about the value of community safety and preparedness. With every new defibrillator installed, communities become stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to handle medical emergencies. Thanks to Scotia Homes, Aviemore is now safer for residents and visitors alike.

Debbie Johnston, one of our Sales Advisors at Dalfaber had the following to say: "It's great to see the new defibrillator installed at Spey Valley Golf Course adding to the network of life-saving equipment across the region and whilst we sincerely hope it's never needed, raising awareness of its' accessibility will be the key to saving lives."

There are now 11 registered defibrillators in Aviemore. The new location of this defibrillator is WhatThreeWords location: pads.misted.supposing. You can find your nearest here - https://www.defibfinder.uk/ . This is not to be used in an emergency but to familiarise yourself should there be an incident in the future. In an emergency, call 999.