CONCERNS have been raised by Westfield Parish Council following the repeated vandalism of a public bleed kit located at West Hill recreation ground.

The kit mounted on the Westhill Club building is designed to provide critical, life-saving equipment in the event of a serious injury, and has been damaged on more than one occasion.

Each incident of vandalism renders the kit unusable and incurs a replacement cost of £95. Unlike a defibrillator which needs an access code to be opened, the casing locking the bleed kit is cable-tied to ensure equipment inside can be accessed quickly.

Beyond the financial impact, the destruction of this equipment poses a significant risk to public safety, potentially delaying emergency response in situations where immediate intervention could mean the difference between life and death.

Bleed kits are strategically placed in public spaces to allow bystanders to respond quickly to severe bleeding before emergency services arrive. Their accessibility and reliability are essential components of community safety.

The police have been made aware of the repeated incidents. They have advised that if the vandalism continues a request will be made to relocate the bleed kit. While relocation may reduce the risk of further damage, it could also limit accessibility in this area.

Sgt Lee Humphreys of the Radstock Neighbourhood Police Team said: “Life-saving bleed kits play a vital role in emergency response, providing the public with rapid access to essential equipment that can help control severe bleeding before professionals arrive. These kits are designed to bridge critical minutes that can ultimately save lives.

“However, vandalism of bleed kits undermines their purpose, leaving communities vulnerable and placing lives at unnecessary risk. Any vandalism or theft of bleed kits will be investigated.”

Community members are being urged to respect and protect this vital resource. Anyone with information regarding the vandalism is encouraged to report it to the police.