KIND-HEARTED police and staff members donated more than 300 chocolate eggs for children who’ll be spending Easter in domestic abuse refuges across the region.
The haul of treats, which was donated by officer and staff at West Midlands Police as well as their families and friends, will be donated to Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid.
Police made more than 1,500 referrals last year to the charity which provides emergency housing for women and children escaping abusive relationships, plus emotional support and practical help.
Detective Chief Inspector Sally Simpson worked closely with Women’s Aid in her former role as head of the domestic abuse team in Birmingham.
She said: “They are an essential partner in our work to protect women who are subjected to domestic abuse; they provide support from point of report to post-court processes and offer advice and guidance at what can be testing times for service users.
“Women’s Aid also assists and advises us on our Independent Advisory Group and domestic abuse scrutiny panels to help improve our practice as well as engagement with victims.
“I’ve been overwhelmed by the response from our officers and staff – they’ve been really generous – and I hope the eggs help bring a smile to the children’s faces.”
Maureen Connolly, CEO of Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid, said: “We are delighted that children in our refuges are going to have such a special Easter, thanks to the thoughtfulness and generosity of staff at West Midlands Police.
“Children who have become homeless because they and their mums have fled domestic abuse, have often had to leave much behind, some having little or no contact with former family and friends.
“At celebration times such as Easter, we never want the children to feel that they are missing out because of what has happened. Wonderful donations like these help children and their mums know others are thinking of them and help us create a positive and happy experience for them.”
