Northern is to install 100 defibrillators at railway stations across the North West and North East, taking the total number on Northern‘s network to 189.

The defibrillators are lifesavers for people in cardiac arrest. Each defibrillator has step-by-verbal instructions built-in that explain how to use it on someone in an emergency. Computers inside the defibrillators analyse a person’s heart rhythms to find out if an electric shock is needed. If it is required, electrodes then automatically deliver the shock.

Once they have been installed, each defibrillator will be added to a national register. North West Ambulance Service will offer training in their use to station staff and local communities.

Funding to support the scheme was provided by the Rail Station Alliance. In 2021, Network Rail funded the installation of 38 new defibrillators across the North West.

Chris Jackson, regional director at Northern, said: “All our defibrillators are in public places and they are of huge benefit, not only to those travelling with us, but also the communities we serve. Our aim is to make a positive impact for the North, and we will continue to work hard to introduce defibrillators at even more of our stations.”

Simon Elliot, head of rail at transport for Greater Manchester, said: “It’s really important that easy-to-use and accessible defibrillators are available in busy public locations. That means it’s great news for both passengers and local communities that they are being rolled out at stations across the rail network. In what can be a life or death situation every second counts and a defibrillator can make the crucial difference and provide people with the help they desperately need when they need it most.”

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “I am delighted to see that so many defibrillators are now available across many of Greater Manchester’s rail stations. As I know from personal experience, these devices really do save lives. With a cardiac arrest, every second counts, and having defibrillators within easy access across our transport network will enable more people to be helped to reach hospital where they can receive proper treatment.

“This project is a great example of the Greater Manchester Rail Stations Alliance Partnership in action. Lots of hard work has gone into making this a reality in recent years and I’d like to thank everyone involved.”