Suffolk police extend support services to the vulnerable
POLICE in Suffolk are extending support services offered to vulnerable people in custody even further with a new scheme in conjunction with the Royal British Legion.
The initiative builds on the successful work police carry out with partnership agencies such as drugs, alcohol and domestic violence charities to prevent re-offending and offer positive support.
The Royal British Legion is committed to supporting serving and ex-Service personnel and their families.
As part of its partnership work with Suffolk Police, volunteers and staff from the charity work closely with police custody officers to assist with any detainees who fall under their care.
The scheme has undergone a successful pilot in Bury St Edmunds and is to be rolled out at the Martlesham Police Investigation Centre (PIC) this month.
There are many success stories already: Peter Shefford, for instance, had found himself homeless and subsequently with a repeat pattern of offending. He was offered a positive focus with a local gardening course where he acquired some new practical skills. As a result, he has since gone on to create his own business.
Adrienne Wakeling, Suffolk County Manager for the Royal British Legion said: “The current number of potential beneficiaries for our diverse welfare services in the UK is estimated at 9.5 million. Working with Suffolk Police at their PICs across the county is proving an excellent way to reach some of the people who might not feel comfortable approaching us directly.”
In the past six months, the details of six detainees have been passed on to the Royal British Legion.
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Wednesday 23 May 2012
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