Devon & Cornwall Police Launches New Scheme to Support Children in Emergency Care

Devon & Cornwall Police have joined forces with the Buddy Bag Foundation, setting a national precedent. This collaboration aims to offer solace and support to children navigating the complexities of emergency care situations.

The Buddy Bag Foundation, established in 2015, is renowned for its commitment to providing backpacks filled with essential and comforting items for children in distress.

About the Buddy Bags

Each backpack, thoughtfully compiled by the foundation, contains a range of items designed to meet the immediate needs of children affected by emergency circumstances. These include toiletries, pyjamas, and comforting objects like a book and a teddy bear, all selected with the child’s age in mind. This partnership marks the first time a UK police force has worked with the charity, which generously donates these bags to support the initiative.

Distribution Across the Force Area

Devon & Cornwall Police have strategically placed these backpacks at key locations within their jurisdiction. Accessible to all officers, the bags are intended to be a resource when children are placed into emergency accommodation or during significant incidents to offer support to young victims.

A Word from the Scheme Coordinator

Wes, the scheme coordinator, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the importance of providing immediate comfort to children during their most vulnerable moments. “These bags represent more than just material aid; they are a gesture of care and reassurance in times of distress,” he said. The initiative ensures that the police force can offer a tangible sense of security and comfort, potentially leaving a positive, lasting impression on the young individuals involved.

Availability

The backpacks will be accessible from several custody centres across the region, including locations in Barnstaple, Exeter, Torquay, Plymouth, Newquay, and Camborne. This widespread availability ensures that officers can offer immediate support wherever they are in the region.

Further Information

For those interested in learning more about the Buddy Bags and the foundation behind them, additional details are available on the Buddy Bag Foundation website. This partnership between Devon & Cornwall Police and the Buddy Bag Foundation represents a significant step forward in offering immediate and thoughtful support to children in emergency situations, demonstrating a commendable blend of compassion and action within the police service.