MEMBERS of the Ross Lions Club have launched a new initiative to install serious bleed control kits throughout Ross-on-Wye and surrounding areas in hopes of improving community safety, writes Lottie Boyland.

The project, led by the community service team, was inspired by growing national concerns surrounding knife crime and serious injuries affecting communities across the UK, as is described by Keith Wilding: “It actually started with a long-standing concern over knife crime and the way it affects so many lives,” he said, adding: “We continually hear about communities being affected and people saying, ‘we’ve never had any trouble like this around here before’ or ‘this is a lovely town’.

“Unfortunately, serious incidents can happen anywhere.”

The idea for the bleed kit project evolved after learning about another Lions Club initiative involving military-grade bleed control kits, supported by the Baird Foundation.

It was this initiative Ross Lions decided to expand on.

A serious bleed control kit is a compact emergency response pack which contains specialist bandages and equipment designed to help control life-threatening bleeding while emergency services are on their way. Each kit includes simple instructions and can be used in a variety of circumstances, such as falls, sports injuries, accidents, or violent incidents.

Ross Lions Club has initially aimed to place 26 kits at local sports clubs, schools, community centres, and public venues by the end of 2026.

However, Mr Wilding suggests that they will likely beat their original target.

Members of the group hope the bleed kit project will not only provide practical emergency support but also help raise awareness around community safety and preparedness.

For more information about the project or to enquire about hosting a Serious Bleed Control Kit within your organisation or venue, contact Ross Lions Club via [email protected].