Always Brighter Stories celebrates people doing kind, inclusive work in their communities across Dublin. From volunteer groups to disability activists, social enterprises, charities and more, we’re spotlighting these stories to thank all Dubliners who positively impact our city and county.

Mick Cardiff has volunteered with St John Ambulance Ballyfermot for a remarkable 48 years, ever since the branch was established. He has been the division officer in the area for many years and had a decades-long career as a paramedic with the National Ambulance Service.

Due to the tireless work of Mick and his fellow St John Ambulance volunteers in the community, Ballyfermot is now one of the safest neighbourhoods in the country to have a cardiac arrest. Through fundraising efforts over many years, Mick’s team have acquired and installed ten defibrillators in Ballyfermot – five indoors and five outdoors. They’re located at key locations throughout the area, including local pharmacies, newsagents, supermarkets, community centres, and schools. In the past three years, the defibrillators have saved two lives.

Mick regularly trains locals in the community in first aid, CPR, and defibrillation. Since December 2023, the local St John Ambulance branch has trained over 60 people in the area, and courses are provided for anyone in Ballyfermot who wants them. Mick has taught staff in local businesses in case a customer should be unfortunate enough to experience a sudden cardiac arrest. He also volunteers with other groups, including Ballyfermot United football club, where he educates coaches and managers on first aid best practices to prevent serious incidents on and off the pitch.

You can find out more about St John Ambulance Ballyfermot, and contact them if you’re interested in receiving first aid training or becoming a volunteer.

This initiative is brought to you by Dublin City Council, with support from the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daithí de Róiste.