Life-saving ‘Bleed Kits’ Introduced in Guildford Town Centre

Published on: 16 Dec, 2024
Updated on: 16 Dec, 2024

By Stella Kuchanny

In a groundbreaking initiative to enhance public safety, Guildford Pubwatch has partnered with Medirek to introduce “Bleed Kits” in six key venues across Guildford Town Centre.

These life-saving kits, designed to provide immediate aid in the event of a drastic bleed, could be the difference between life and death in critical situations.

The “Bleed Kits” contain essential supplies to help control bleeding, along with user-friendly guides to ensure they can be used effectively in emergencies. To complement the initiative, training courses for staff and volunteers will be organised, and a public awareness campaign is set to educate the community on the importance of quick action during emergencies.

Jane Lyons, Chairman of Guildford Pubwatch, highlighted the significance of the project: “We are thrilled to partner with Medirek on this vital project that has the potential to make a significant impact on public safety in Guildford Town Centre. By providing these Bleed Kits in easily accessible venues and offering the necessary training and support, we hope to create a safer environment for everyone in our community.”

The initiative builds on Guildford Shakespeare Company’s “Put Up Your Swords” campaign earlier this year, further cementing Guildford’s proactive approach to public safety.

Knife Crime in Guildford

The need for such proactive safety measures becomes even more apparent when considering the prevalence of knife crime in Guildford. When contacted for the latest statistics, Surrey Police revealed that between 1st November 2023 and 31st October 2024, there were 1,352 knife-related offences reported in the area.

This stark figure underscores the importance of having tools like Bleed Kits readily available, as they can provide immediate aid in situations where every second counts.

The Mayor of Guildford Sallie Barker MBE helps the launch of the initiative. Jane Lyons of The Keep is on the left.

Empowering the Community

The placement of the Bleed Kits is more than a safety measure; it’s a step towards empowering residents, businesses, and visitors to act decisively during emergencies. Strategic locations for the kits ensure they are readily accessible, while the accompanying training aims to equip individuals with the confidence to respond effectively.

The official launch of the project took place on Tuesday, December 3 2024, and included a fundraising collection in aid of Charlie’s Promise, a charity supporting victims of knife crime. Guildford Pubwatch members have already raised funds to support the project, with notable contributions like the £374 raised during a darts tournament at The Jubilee Club.

A Milestone for Guildford

The introduction of these Bleed Kits represents a significant step in Guildford’s commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness. Residents and visitors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the locations of the kits and learn the basic steps for using them in critical situations.

For more information about the Bleed Kit project or to get involved, contact Guildford Pubwatch at guildfordpubwatch@gmail.com

Guildford’s dedication to public safety continues to set a precedent for other communities, proving that proactive measures and community collaboration can make a real difference.

About the Project Partners

Guildford Pubwatch is a partnership of local pubs, bars, and venues working together to promote safety and reduce crime in the town centre.

Medirek is a leading provider of emergency medical supplies and training, committed to equipping communities with the tools and knowledge to respond to emergencies effectively.

Call to Action

With 1,352 knife-related offences reported in Guildford over the past year, initiatives like the Bleed Kit project are vital in addressing public safety concerns. Let’s continue to make Guildford a safer place for all.