Overview
Gwynedd, a leading UK region for defibrillator coverage, is seeing calls to remove VAT on defibrillators to lower costs. Local politicians in Dwyfor Meirionnydd welcomed Gwynedd’s recognition as one of the top five areas in the UK for defibrillator coverage, while arguing for more affordable devices.
Defibrillator Coverage
According to the Cardiac Coverage report by defibshop, as cited by Cambrian News, Gwynedd records 50.35 defibrillators per 10,000 people, ranking it among the best-prepared UK regions for responding to cardiac emergencies.
Calls for VAT Removal
Liz Saville Roberts MP urged the UK government to remove VAT from defibrillators, arguing this would make devices more affordable and reduce costs by up to £500. “It is unacceptable that community groups working hard to save lives are penalised by VAT when purchasing defibrillators. These devices are not luxuries - they are essential, lifesaving equipment. I have consistently supported calls to remove VAT on defibrillators for community use, and I urge the UK Government to take this simple, practical step to improve access to public health measures.”
Local Response
Mr ap Gwynfor reaffirmed the value of these devices, noting the lifesaving impact they have and praising the collaboration of volunteers, schools, and organizations—often with charities—to ensure defibrillators are available where most needed.
Author’s Summary
Gwynedd leads in defibrillator coverage and advocates VAT removal to lower costs, enabling broader community access to lifesaving devices.