Nottinghamshire Freemasons Champion Life-Saving Action at Landmark Stop the Bleed Conference

Nottinghamshire Freemasons have once again demonstrated their deep commitment to community wellbeing, playing a prominent and inspiring role at the UK’s first ever #InThisTogether Stop the Bleed conference, held in Newark on 29 April.

Taking place at Castle House during the powerful visit of the Knife Angel memorial, the conference brought together emergency services, civic leaders, educators, and community organisations with one shared purpose: to save lives through knowledge, collaboration, and action.

At the heart of the day was a simple yet profound message: any one of us could be the bystander who makes the difference between life and death.

A United Effort for Community Resilience

The conference marked a significant milestone in the Stop the Bleed campaign, which began in Nottinghamshire following a distressing incident involving a young learner. What started as a local initiative has rapidly evolved into a national movement, empowering people with the skills and confidence to respond in life-threatening situations.

Nottinghamshire Freemasons have been proud supporters of this campaign from its early stages, recognising the importance of equipping communities with practical, life-saving skills. Their involvement reflects a long-standing ethos of service, compassion, and proactive engagement within the community.

Peter Gregory, representing Nottinghamshire Freemasons, delivered a compelling presentation during the conference, reinforcing the Province’s commitment to making a tangible difference. He spoke passionately about the responsibility we all share in moments of crisis, highlighting that the ability to act quickly and effectively can turn ordinary individuals into lifesavers.

He emphasised that Freemasonry is not only about tradition, but about meaningful, modern impact—supporting initiatives that “bring communities together, build resilience, and ultimately save lives.” His words resonated strongly with attendees, underlining the vital role that organisations like the Freemasons play in driving positive change.

Recognition of Dedication and Support

In a moment of well-deserved recognition, Peter Gregory was presented with a certificate by Councillor Paul Taylor of Newark and Sherwood District Council. This honour acknowledged the significant support provided by Nottinghamshire Freemasons to both the Stop the Bleed campaign and the Knife Angel initiative.

The presentation symbolised not only gratitude, but also the strength of partnership between civic leaders and community organisations working together to create safer environments.

A Powerful and Moving Experience

The conference was both informative and deeply moving. Attendees heard from a range of speakers, including trauma specialists, police representatives, and those personally affected by knife crime. A poignant message shared by Adele Cook, whose husband tragically lost his life, reminded everyone present that while the past cannot be changed, the future is still ours to shape through action and unity.

Workshops provided hands-on training in life-saving techniques such as tourniquet use and wound packing—skills that could one day save a life not only in incidents of violence, but also in everyday emergencies.

During their time in Newark, members of Nottinghamshire Freemasons also visited the Knife Angel, a striking national monument against violence. There, alongside other attendees, they reflected on its message and contributed to a collective expression of hope by tying ribbons and sharing messages of remembrance and commitment to change.

Looking Ahead with Positivity and Purpose

The success of the conference signals not an end, but a beginning. As Liz Barrett, Principal of ATTFE College, noted, this is “only the start” of a growing movement grounded in partnership and shared responsibility.

For Nottinghamshire Freemasons, the event reinforces a clear direction: continuing to support initiatives that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and save lives. Their involvement in Stop the Bleed is a powerful example of Freemasonry in action—practical, compassionate, and forward-looking.

As communities across the county and beyond build on this momentum, one thing is certain: by standing #InThisTogether, we can create a safer, more resilient future for all.

And perhaps most importantly, we can ensure that when the unthinkable happens, someone nearby will know what to do.