A Worthing first responder is backing a campaign to address gender inequality in life-saving treatment during cardiac arrests.
Research shows women are 27% less likely than men to receive CPR from bystanders. Campaigners say stigma and uncertainty about removing bras for defibrillator use are part of the problem.
The initiative, called #BraOffDefibOn, was launched in 2022 to raise awareness and normalise bra removal when using a defibrillator. It aims to ensure women get the same chance of survival as men.
Sally Holmes, a community first responder in Worthing, has delivered dozens of CPR training sessions this year. She says the goal is to « give people confidence to act quickly and save lives. »
Ms Holmes has trained 1,165 people in 2025 across 54 sessions. She says teaching CPR and defibrillator use is vital for breaking taboos and tackling inequalities.
« I’m passionate about giving people the confidence to carry out CPR and use a defibrillator which could save a life, » she said.
Campaign founder Jenny Legg, a learning and development professional, says the message is simple.
« Removing a bra can make the difference between life and death, » she says.
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