The initiative, organised in partnership with the Derby Violence Reduction team and Sporting Communities, aims to ensure that bleed kits, designed to provide immediate aid in the event of a traumatic injury, are available in key public locations throughout the city.
The project forms part of a wider campaign to improve community safety and potentially save lives in critical situations.
STEPS students at DCG have been at the heart of this initiative, raising an impressive £5,000 and actively taking part in raising awareness, assembling kits, and liaising with local venues where the kits will be installed.
Their hard work and commitment have drawn praise from local organisations, emergency services, and members of the public alike.
The students’ inspiration for this important initiative came from their involvement in a recent Hope Hack event, a national project giving young people a voice on issues affecting their lives and communities.
Organised by Violence Reduction Units across the UK, Hope Hacks were created in memory of Damilola Taylor, the 10-year-old boy who dreamed of changing the world before his tragic death in 2000.
At these events, young people aged 15-25 take part in workshops covering key topics such as mental health, community safety, life skills, and aspirations for the future, sharing their hopes and solutions for creating safer, stronger communities.
Derby College students have previously worked closely with the Derby Violence Reduction team at one of these Hope Hack events, and it was from these discussions around community safety that the idea to fund and distribute bleed kits locally first emerged.
That earlier collaboration gave the students the confidence, experience, and passion to push forward with this project and work alongside other professionals to turn their ideas into action.
Their involvement highlights the power of giving young people meaningful opportunities to influence their communities and demonstrates the positive outcomes that can follow.
Samantha Nath, STEPS Youth Worker at DCG, said:
“It’s fantastic to see our students getting involved in such a meaningful community initiative. Not only have they contributed to a potentially lifesaving project, but they’ve also gained valuable experience in teamwork, community engagement, and public safety.
“Their work with the Derby Violence Reduction team at the Hope Hack really sparked this idea, and it’s been inspiring to see them follow it through with such dedication.”
The STEPS programme at Derby College is a personalised course designed to support students who need extra help to enter the world of work, set future career goals, or progress in their studies.
The programme offers students the opportunity to work towards recognised qualifications, gain valuable work experience, and explore vocational courses at the College.
Each student works closely with staff to create a tailored programme and personal targets, supported by a dedicated youth worker and Personal Tutor throughout their journey.
STEPS focuses on building confidence, resilience, independence, and essential skills for a positive future.
This project stands as a shining example of how education, community partnership, and youth-led ideas can work together to create a meaningful, lasting impact.
