Local Business Installs Lifesaving Defibrillator for Hornchurch Community

A local Hornchurch business has taken a powerful step to support public safety by installing a community-access defibrillator outside their building. Richard Reece, from Allan Reece Associates, made the decision after being deeply moved by the tragic story of teenage boy Jamie Rees, whose life may have been saved had a defibrillator been available sooner. Jamie’s story has since led to national awareness and the incredible work of the OurJay Foundation, which campaigns for publicly accessible defibrillators to prevent similar tragedies.

The device, known as an Automated External Defibrillator or AED, has now been mounted outside the building so that it is available not only to staff but to anyone in the community who may need it in an emergency. Richard explained that his motivation was simple. He wanted to prevent another family going through the heartbreak Jamie’s did and believed the defibrillator could make a critical difference in an emergency.

Since the device appeared, several residents contacted local councillors to enquire who had installed it and whether it was available for public use. Councillor John Wood visited the premises to investigate after receiving messages from concerned locals who were unsure of its purpose. Once he met Richard and learned the intention behind the installation, he encouraged him to contact the Havering Daily to help spread awareness so the community fully understands that the device is there for everyone.

He hopes that by raising further awareness, the community will know exactly where to find the defibrillator should an emergency occur.

Public access defibrillators have been shown to drastically improve chances of survival following cardiac arrest, particularly when used within minutes. With survival rates dropping by around 10 percent for every minute without CPR or defibrillation, having equipment nearby can genuinely mean the difference between life and death.

Richard’s initiative has already been praised as an act of community care and responsibility. It highlights growing awareness around the importance of accessible emergency equipment and reflects a strong spirit of looking out for one another.

If even one life is saved, Richard says every penny and effort will have been worthwhile.

The device can be found on Appleton Way in Hornchurch.

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