By Joshua Robinson –
Public Access Trauma (PAcT) First Aid Kits have been deployed in key locations across Kirklees, as part of an ongoing project across the West Yorkshire region.
The PAcT kits are now available in easily accessible locations in Kirklees to provide life-saving equipment in case of an emergency.
They are designed to be used by anyone, even if they have no training, and can support first aid efforts until emergency services arrive. Created by experts, the St John Ambulance kits contain wound dressings, tourniquets, and clear instructions about how to use the equipment.
All locations will display a specially designed sticker in a prominent place to ensure the public can find the kits if needed.
Funding for the kits was secured by West Yorkshire Police in conjunction with Counter Terrorism Policing North East, via a successful bid to the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin’s, Safer Communities Fund.
This is part of an ongoing project by the regional Protect and Prepare Group, to protect and assist the public in case of a major incident. The bid was made on behalf of all five policing districts within West Yorkshire, and successfully secured enough funding to purchase approximately 100 kits, which will be distributed across the county.
Kirklees district was chosen as the pilot location for the kits due to their ongoing work with the Safe Zones scheme, which was launched in 2022. The project saw partners including West Yorkshire Police, Kirklees Council and Barnardo’s collaborate to create more than 230 safe spaces across Kirklees for those at risk, including women and children.
All the locations chosen for the first aid kits are also part of this safeguarding initiative.
The businesses that have signed up to receive a kit will also be receiving free first aid training from a local company, Purple Dog Ltd. The company are based in Huddersfield and offer several courses including first aid, health and safety and food safety training.
Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “In emergency situations, having access to the right first aid equipment can make all the difference.”
“Many local businesses have signed up, showing the strength of our community spirit here in Kirklees.”
“While I hope they’re never needed, I’d encourage residents to look out for these kits as they may just save lives.”
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Councillor Mussarat Pervaiz, Cabinet Member for Communities said: “I am delighted we are working together with our police partners on this pilot scheme to provide protection and assistance to our communities and residents across Kirklees in case of a major incident. I hope these Public Access Trauma kits are never required but if they are, we’re prepared for an immediate response and I’m proud that the council is supporting this.”
Superintendent Helen Brear of Kirklees District Police, said: “This is an excellent initiative which is perfectly suited to the Safe Zones scheme and will help us offer a potentially life saving service from these locations.”
“Safe Zones were created to provide places of refuge and shelter for women, children and all vulnerable people in need and feedback from partners has informed us they are really welcome additions to our town centres.”
“There are now more than 230 Safe Zones in operation and we are striving to continue to extend and develop the scheme.”
Kit Locations:
Batley and Birstall:
• Tesco Superstore, Bradford Road, Batley
• McDonald’s Birstall, Gelderd Road
• The Union Rooms, Hick Lane
• Batley Health Centre, Upper Commercial Street
Cleckheaton:
• Tesco, Northgate
• JD Wetherspoon – Obediah Brooke, Bradford Road
Dewsbury:
• Asda Superstore, Mill St West
• Dewsbury Bus Station, Aldams Road
• Lidl, Commercial Road
• Jesters Chicken, Northgate
• Dewsbury Town Hall, Wakefield Old Road
• Aldi, Railway Street
Holmfirth:
• Picturedrome, Market Walk
• Co-Op, Market Street
• Holmfirth Library, Huddersfield Road
Huddersfield:
• Huddersfield Bus Station, Upperhead Row
• Huddersfield Leisure Centre, Spring Grove Street
• Kingsgate, King Street
• John Smith Stadium, Stadium Way
• McDonalds, Kirkgate
• The Conservatory, Park Avenue
• The Parish, The Old Courthouse
• Unit 11/12, The Ringway Centre, Beck Road
• Tesco Superstore, Viaduct Street
• Crown Public House, Westgate
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