Public Access Trauma (PAcT) First Aid Kits have been strategically placed in key locations throughout the Kirklees district, as part of an ongoing initiative spanning the West Yorkshire region.

The PAcT kits are now readily available in easily reachable spots in Kirklees, offering crucial life-saving equipment in case of an emergency. They are designed for use by anyone, even without formal training, providing support for first aid efforts until emergency services arrive. Crafted by experts at St John Ambulance, these kits comprise wound dressings, tourniquets, and clear instructions on how to use them.

Each location will prominently display a specially designed sticker, ensuring the public can locate the kits when needed.

Funding for the kits was secured by West Yorkshire Police in collaboration with Counter Terrorism Policing North East, through a successful bid to the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin’s Safer Communities Fund.

This forms part of the ongoing efforts of the regional Protect and Prepare Group, aimed at safeguarding and aiding the public in the event of a major incident. The bid was made on behalf of all five policing districts within West Yorkshire and successfully procured enough funding to acquire approximately 100 kits, which will be distributed across the county.

Kirklees district was selected as the initial location for the kits due to its ongoing involvement with the Safe Zones scheme, which was introduced in 2022. This project brought together partners including West Yorkshire Police, Kirklees Council, and Barnardo’s to establish over 230 safe spaces across Kirklees for individuals at risk, including women and children.

All the chosen locations for the first aid kits are also part of this safeguarding initiative.

Businesses that have enrolled to receive a kit will also receive complimentary first aid training from a local company, Purple Dog Ltd.

Based in Huddersfield, the company offers a range of 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.”

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
McDonald’s, 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

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR