Oakwell Stadium is the latest venue in the English Football League to receive the generous charitable donation of 4 defibrillators – ‘One in Every Corner’.
The campaign is being driven by popular England fan Paul “Tango” Gregory, creating a legacy in memory of his daughter Lauren Walker who recently passed away from complications after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.
Over 20 clubs have already received the same donation made possible thanks to funds raised by fans and commercial partners in aid of Red Sky Foundation for Lauren’s Legacy. By enhancing the number of public access units, the ‘One in Every Corner’ campaign aims to protect fans, players and local communities across the UK in a medical emergency.
Barnsley FC have now installed their allocation of 4 defibrillators thanks to Red Sky Foundation with support from the charity’s commercial partners Unison and Enviromena, as the installation at Barnsley marks another step forward in Paul’s mission to turn his personal loss into lifesaving action.
Each installation is part of a wider effort to increase survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, where immediate CPR and rapid access to a defibrillator can make the critical difference.
Sergio Petrucci MBE, Founder of Red Sky Foundation, said:
“This campaign is about ensuring that football stadiums across the country are equipped with accessible defibrillators to give people the very best chance of survival. We are proud to stand alongside Paul and Lauren’s Legacy as this important initiative continues to grow.”
Head of Ticketing and Fan Engagement at Barnsley FC John Bird said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Red Sky Foundation for their remarkable generosity and the difference they continue to make in football communities across the country. Having these defibrillators installed around Oakwell gives our supporters, staff, and visitors an extra level of safety and reassurance every time they come to the stadium.
“Lauren’s Legacy is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together for a cause that truly matters, and we’re proud to play a small part in helping that message reach even further. Our thanks go to everyone at Red Sky, including Paul Gregory aka Tango, Enviromena, Unison and to all the supporters whose contributions have made this lifesaving initiative possible.”
Paul Gregory added: “Lauren loved football, and creating this legacy in her memory means that stadiums across the country can become safer places for families and supporters. Every defibrillator installed is another opportunity to save a life, and I’m grateful to Barnsley FC for their continued support.”
Enviromena is a UK independent power producer with a strong focus on linking its environmental work with a broader commitment to community health and wellbeing.
Lee Adams, Chief Commercial Officer at Enviromena, said: “We’re proud to continue our support of the ‘One in Every Corner’ campaign and the installation of defibrillators at Barnsley FC.
“Our work is centred on building and operating long-term solar infrastructure that strengthens Britain’s energy system, but it’s equally important to us that we leave a positive impact in the communities where we operate.”
Enviromena is currently developing a solar project in nearby Grimethorpe, which, in addition to providing renewable electricity to support Britain’s energy security, has the potential to bring significant investment into the Barnsley area. Furthermore, it will provide financial support for future community projects and initiatives through a £100,000 community benefit fund.
Red Sky Foundation are encouraging football fans and local communities to help them continue the work of Lauren’s Legacy nationwide, ensuring that more football stadiums are equipped with publicly accessible defibrillators. Supporters can find out more about the project by visiting: https://redskyfoundation.com/laurens-legacy/
