Fundraiser launched to install life-saving emergency phones on North Devon bridges

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to improve emergency access phones on bridges in North Devon.

Organised by Bulletin Media, a Barnstaple-based media company that runs advertising groups on social media, the fundraiser aims to raise £2,000 to install permanent free phones on both the Torridge Bridge in Bideford and the Taw Bridge in Barnstaple. 

The campaign also seeks to introduce CCTV for suicide prevention, which organisers say could serve as a last attempt to save a life.

So far, £90 has been raised.

Russel Rogers, part of the media group, explained to the Gazette: “At the moment we have a really big problem in North Devon, and unfortunately that would be down to the lack of funding for our mental health services and funding being stopped for those services that are a lifeline for so many.

“We have always had a bit of an issue of feeling helpless as Bideford and Barnstaple bridges have Samaritans posters saying ‘we’re here, free call, talk to us’, yet unfortunately, not a single phone to use. Our aim is to change that.

“We have put a clear waterproof box with a pre-paid mobile phone in them, clearly highlighted, so someone in distress can make possibly the most important call of their life; that call for help.

“That call could be to the Samaritans, 999, the crisis team, or someone they trust to listen.

“Our aim is to raise enough awareness for a permanent free phone on both bridges and CCTV for suicide prevention as a last attempt to save a life.

“We have to go out every few days and check the mobiles to make sure they are charged and ready in case that all-important time comes when someone needs to make a life-saving call.”

Bulletin Media is now seeking public support to raise funds for more secure boxes with solar chargers for the phones, additional signs with helpline numbers for local organisations, and further emergency access phone installations on both bridges.

The group has the support of Councillor Dermot McGeough and has opened conversations with Devon County Council in a bid to achieve their goals.

You can support the fundraising effort here: https://gofund.me/d55ae79e