Penrith Building Society has launched a campaign to install a defibrillator outside its branch.
Marking Heart Month, the mutual has rallied staff, members and local businesses to support the cause through a series of heartfelt initiatives designed to raise
awareness, funds and community spirit, while also supporting a local heart charity.
The society is selling handmade hearts in branch, with all proceeds going towards the purchase and installation of the defibrillator.
Until 5 April, Penrith Building Society will also donate £5 to the defibrillator appeal for every ISA opened across its branch and digital network.
The society will also make a donation to local charity Hearts United.
Today, Thursday February 26, staff will team up with neighbours Strength and Fitness Gym for a charity rowing event.
They will take on an ambitious 100,000-metre row.
Chief executive Zack Hocking said the initiative reflected the society’s long-standing commitment to the wellbeing of the communities it serves.
Zack said: “As a mutual, our purpose has always been about people — not profits. Having a publicly accessible defibrillator outside our branch could quite literally
save a life, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud to support.
“By linking this appeal to our ISA products, we’re giving members an easy way to make a real difference.”
For marketing & communications manager Suzi Carrigan, the cause is deeply personal.
In 2020, a defibrillator was used to save the life of her husband after he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.
She said: “I know that defibrillators save lives.
“When a cardiac arrest happens, every second counts.
“Knowing we can help provide that chance for someone else in our community means everything. This campaign comes straight from the heart.”
How to get involved
People can support the campaign in several ways:
- Buy a handmade heart at the Penrith Building Society branch throughout February
- Donate in branch, with all contributions going directly towards the community defibrillator
- Open an ISA until April 5, triggering a £5 donation to the appeal
- Donate online via the society’s GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/s?q=penrith+building+society
