At Suicide Prevention UK, our work goes beyond emotional support. We’re dedicated to protecting life in as many ways as possible—including by carrying vital bleed control kits in all six of our patrol vehicles across Bristol and Bath.
These kits are an important addition to our patrol resources and are designed to help someone who has sustained a serious injury. Whether we encounter someone hurt in a public setting or witness a violent incident, having this equipment means we can take practical action to support those in distress.
Why Bleed Kits Matter
Bleed control kits are designed to help manage significant injuries. Each kit contains important medical items—such as dressings, gauze, and tourniquets—that can help slow blood loss while waiting for medical assistance. By carrying these on our patrols, our team members are better prepared to support the public when it matters most.
Our focus remains on compassion, presence, and proactive support. But with these kits on hand, we’re also able to provide an additional layer of safety for those we may encounter in crisis.
Supporting Local Campaigns and Policing Efforts
Our efforts reflect the growing movement across the South West to make communities safer. Campaigns supported by Avon and Somerset Police have highlighted the need for greater access to bleed kits and lifesaving training. The tragic deaths of young people such as Max Dixon and Mason Rist have deeply affected communities and underlined the need for practical measures in public safety.
We stand alongside these local initiatives by ensuring our own teams are equipped to support the community both emotionally and practically.
South Western Ambulance Service Integration
In a significant development, South Western Ambulance Service has now registered bleed kit locations into its Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system. This means that if a 999 call is made involving a serious injury, dispatchers can advise callers where their nearest public bleed kit is located—helping responders and members of the public act more quickly.
This collaboration between community initiatives and emergency services marks a major step forward in saving lives.
Acknowledging Leanne Reynolds and The Daniel Baird Foundation
We want to extend our sincere thanks to Leanne Reynolds, a committed campaigner based in Bristol, whose tireless advocacy has helped raise awareness about bleed kits and improve public training opportunities across the region. Her sessions, in partnership with Safeguard Medical, continue to give people the confidence and knowledge to act in urgent situations.
We also thank The Daniel Baird Foundation, formed in memory of Daniel Baird, who lost his life to knife violence. The foundation’s mission to install publicly accessible bleed control kits across the UK has already made a real impact. Their work continues to inspire us and support safer communities nationwide.
Find Your Nearest Bleed Kit
Knowing where your nearest bleed kit is located can make all the difference. An interactive map is available to help the public find kits in their area, provided by The Daniel Baird Foundation:
???? https://controlthebleed.org.uk/find-a-kit/
Moving Forward
At Suicide Prevention UK, our commitment to public safety includes not only supporting mental health and wellbeing but also being prepared for practical situations where life may be at risk. Equipping our patrols with bleed kits reflects this commitment, and we will continue working alongside partners and campaigners to help protect lives in any way we can.
To learn more about our work or to support our charity, please visit:
www.spuk.org.uk