Solihull MP wants more lifesaving equipment as knife tragedies happening 'far too often'

The MP for Solihull West and Shirley has launched a campaign to get more bleed kits and defibrillators in his constituency, claiming tragedies at the hand of a knife happen far too often in the West Midlands.

It follows the death of 12-year-old Leo Ross in Birmingham. He was stabbed to death as he walked home from school in Hall Green three weeks ago (21st Jan).

A 14-year-old has been charged with his murder.

What will the MP for Solihull West and Shirley buy with the fundraising?

MP Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst is hoping to raise £1,500 for the life-saving equipment in his constituency.

He told us that would buy at least one defibrillator and around 19 bleed kits.

"I know from my background as a trauma surgeon, that immediate intervention is lifesaving," he said.

"People will carry knives tonight, tomorrow night and the night after"

He told us how this equipment would save lives:

"People will carry knives tonight, tomorrow night and the night after. It is about ensuring we have immediate first aid available so that victims can get to hospital, survive and walk out again.

"Residents in my constituency do worry about the safety of their children. I would say that this is not a significant issue in our borough, but one episode is far too many," he said.

Alongside local anti-knife crime campaign group, The Daniel Baird Foundation, MP Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst will walk the Solihull Way in Spring in the hope of raising even more money for the cause.

The walk is planned for 11 April 2025.

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