YMCA Thames Gateway Group has confirmed that a man “in his late sixties” died at the branch on Friday (May 2) due to a medical emergency.
In a public statement, the group said there was an “immediate response” by residents, members and staff before medics arrived at the scene.
Nathan Jackson, a resident at YMCA, was among the people to spring to action as he performed CPR in a desperate attempt to resuscitate the man.
However, he has slammed YMCA Thames Gateway Group for its alleged “minimal” staff intervention, and claims that a defibrillator was kept locked away despite allegedly asking for one to be brought over five times.
He said that at 7.40am, himself and another resident were alerted by the catering team that someone had collapsed.
“I should never have been the one to do that, it should have been someone capable,” he said.
Mr Jackson has questioned why a defibrillator was locked and never brought out, despite himself and others requesting for one.
He said: “I have to live with the fact that what if that defibrillator was there, maybe he’d still be alive.
“That will haunt me. He has now been snubbed of his life because he was not given something that could have easily potentially saved his life.”
A photograph shows that a defibrillator remains behind a locked door, meaning that only staff were able to access it.
He stated: “They’re saying they are looking into it and will put these procedures in place, yet it should have never got to this.
“I have to live with the fact that what if that defibrillator was there, maybe he’d still be alive.”
While Mr Jackson says he is “living in fear” that he could be “made homeless” for publicly speaking out about his concerns of the disorganisation, he believes he needs to say something to make a change and “give a voice” to the man who died.
What has YMCA said?
A spokesperson for YMCA Thames Gateway Group said: “We can confirm a gentleman in his late sixties passed away at YMCA Romford on Friday, 2 May following a medical emergency in the gym.
“Despite the swift response from members, staff and residents – and the rapid arrival of emergency medical services – he tragically could not be revived.
“Both a resident and two of our members carried out CPR on the individual, following a request from a staff member for assistance while they contacted the emergency services.
“As an organisation, we will be conducting a full and thorough investigation, in line with our standard procedures.
“This includes reviewing CCTV footage and gathering statements from those present at the time.
“We will not be commenting further on any allegations while this process is ongoing.
“We are offering professional support to those affected.
“Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with the gentleman’s family and loved ones, and we kindly request that their privacy is respected during this difficult time.”
The London Ambulance Service has been approached for comment.
