HOPES for a safe space in a public place took a giant leap forward last weekend when daredevil Cheryl Crawford did a fundraising bungee jump for the cause.
Cheryl, who’s terrified of heights, took to the skies to lend her support to the Safer Streets Project headed by Farrah McNutt, to create a ‘Digital Safety Pod’ in New Road, Rubery.
Farrah’s dream is to convert the old telephone box there into a refuge for anyone fleeing an attacker.
Once inside, the door will lock behind them and they’ll be able to contact the emergency services for help.
A bleed control kit will also be there to help cope with any injuries.
It’s an idea that has caught the imagination of Bromsgrove District Council which is backing the project with a £2,000 grant and it’s won the support of local Councillor Adrian Kris.
“We have the funding from the council and we will be purchasing everything needed to restore the phone box to its original condition and installing the life saving equipment bleed control kit,” said Farrah.
“On average it takes nine minutes and 20 seconds for an ambulance to arrive at a scene but it can only take three to five minutes to bleed to death.
“A bleed control kit by the Daniel Baird Foundation helps control the flow until help arrives, giving vital minutes to save a life.”
“After this we are raising the rest of the funds to convert it into a Digital Safety Pod for anyone who is being threatened, chased or attacked on our streets.”
Cheryl, who did her jump at Cliff Lake Water Park near Tamworth, raising £324 in the process.
She said: “I want to say a massive thank you to everyone that sponsored me for my bungee jump for Digital Safety Pods.
“It’s been an incredible journey to be part of the public safety initiative.
“Doing the bungee jump was one of the most if not the most frightening experience of my life so far.
“I don’t regret a single moment of it, it’s been an amazing experience and a pleasure to help in some way.”
To add to her total visit: Crowdfunder link; https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/digital-safety-pods
