A new automated external defibrillator (AED) has been installed on Culverland Road, giving residents close access to potentially life-saving equipment. The device was placed outside a property managed by Exeter Homes Trust after the trust secured money from Devon County Council through its locality budget scheme.
How the project came about
The installation followed a request from Michaela Bennett, who sought a lasting legacy after her father, Michael Bennett, died at the site in 2025. Exeter Homes Trust general manager Ethan Watts approached Cllr Thomas Richardson, the county councillor for St Sidwells and St James, to pursue funding toward the unit and its cabinet.
Launch and funding
The AED was formally unveiled on Friday 24 July 2026, at a small launch attended by Exeter Homes Trust representatives, local councillors, residents and members of the Bennett family. The entire project, including installation, had a price tag of £2,700 and was funded through the council scheme.
- Location: Culverland Road, outside an Exeter Homes Trust property
- Cost: £2,700 (including installation)
- Funding source: Devon County Council locality budget
"If this defibrillator helps save even one life in the future, it will represent something truly special," said Michaela Bennett.
Local significance and next steps
For residents, the presence of a publicly accessible AED reduces response times if someone suffers a cardiac arrest nearby. Exeter Homes Trust described the unit as a "lifesaving community asset" in comments following the launch; Ethan Watts thanked the councillor and the council for securing the funding.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Device | Publicly accessible AED and storage cabinet |
| Installed by | Exeter Homes Trust with council funding |
| Cost | £2,700 |
| Launch date | 24 July 2026 |
Local community groups and neighbours will now have access to the equipment should an emergency occur. While those behind the project expressed hope the AED will never be needed, they stressed the importance of having such resources in place to improve outcomes in cardiac events.
The installation also highlights how residents, housing providers and local councillors can work together to deliver small but practical improvements to public safety across Exeter's neighbourhoods.
