UNISON branches in Northamptonshire have donated a critical bleed control kit to The Doddridge Centre in St James as part of a growing initiative to tackle knife crime and improve community safety.
The donation follows a two-hour training session, where local workers learned how to respond to life-threatening bleeding, often caused by knife injuries, and provide emergency help before paramedics arrive.
During the event, UNISON branch secretary Paul Meadows formally presented the bleed kit to the community centre, which serves residents across the St James area and beyond.
The kit will be stored in the nearest defibrillator box and registered with East Midlands Ambulance Service, meaning anyone who dials 999 in an emergency can be directed to this life-saving equipment.
UNISON Northamptonshire branch secretary Paul Meadows said: “UNISON is proud to support our communities not just through workplace representation, but by taking proactive steps to improve public safety.
“The donation of this Critical Bleed Kit to The Doddridge Centre is part of a wider initiative to equip people with the skills and tools they need to save lives. We know that in the event of a critical bleed, every second counts.
“By funding this training and providing essential equipment, we’re empowering individuals to act confidently in emergencies. We’re especially pleased to work with a valued community hub like The Doddridge Centre, and we look forward to continuing this vital work across Northamptonshire.”
The Doddridge Centre’s director, Rachel Bott, said: “I am immensely proud of the opportunity to partner with UNISON to tackle the pressing issue of knife crime. This joint initiative not only underscores our commitment to community safety but also empowers individuals by providing vital training and life-saving tools, such as the critical bleed kit.
“Through our combined efforts, we are taking a proactive stand to raise awareness, educate our community, and foster a safer, more engaged environment for all.”
UNISON aims to roll out further free critical bleed training courses for members as part of its annual learning and development programme across Northamptonshire and the East Midlands.
Notes to editors:
– Critical bleed kits contain specialist first-aid equipment used to treat catastrophic bleeding, often associated with knife injuries or traumatic accidents.
– The Doddridge Centre is a long-standing community hub in the heart of St James, Northampton.
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.