British Heart Foundation hopes to fight heart disease by training volunteers in Ely

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is to set up a new group of volunteers in Ely.

The group is looking to help local people learn more about how they can prevent or manage heart disease.

Heart disease is still the UK’s single biggest killer, with over 30,000 cardiac arrests taking place outside of hospital every year. It means someone in the UK is struck by a heart attack every 3 minutes. Around 30% of heart attacks are fatal.

The new Ely volunteer team will provide access to CPR training for local schools and groups, raise skills and awareness on how to use a defibrillator, and put on fundraising events for the charity.

Marc Shaw, BHF area fundraising manager, said: “Our new Ely group is one of 18 new volunteering initiatives we’re launching in the East of England.

“Volunteering for any charity is a great way to meet new people, and to share your skills. The first step is to find a Group Leader for the Ely team, then to fill the various roles, like Education Co-ordinator and Donation Co-ordinator.

“Right now, we’re looking for someone with leadership skills, who is friendly and outgoing. If you fit the bill, we’d love to hear from you.”

For more information, visit www.reach.com or email BHFVolunteersEast@gmail.com.