Girl, 5, saves collapsed mum's life by calling 999

A five-year-old girl from Rowley Regis, Black Country, has been recognised for her bravery after she called 999 when her mother collapsed and lost consciousness at home in February. Mya Kaur Sangha, now six, was awarded the West Midlands Ambulance Service Young Person of Outstanding Bravery Award, becoming the youngest recipient of the honour.

Neeta Sangha, Mya's mother, became seriously unwell with suspected sepsis while looking after Mya and her two younger siblings, aged three and eight months. Despite her young age, Mya was able to call an ambulance and provide the emergency call handler with their home address, her mother's name, and the children's ages. She also followed the operator's instructions, including opening the front door for the paramedics.

Hospital staff later informed the family that Mya's actions saved Neeta's life. Neeta said she only became aware of what had happened when she regained consciousness. Mya's father, Jag, said the family had only recently taught Mya about emergencies and never expected her to have to put that knowledge into practice so soon. Neeta added that Mya had previously survived sepsis as a baby, making the family's experience even more significant.

The family hopes Mya's story will encourage other parents to talk to their children about what to do if someone at home becomes seriously unwell.