Police officers help to brighten Christmas for children living in domestic abuse refuges

Devon & Cornwall Police officers based in Torquay have seen first-hand what a challenging year it has been for so many. This year even more so for families who have had to flee domestic abuse and now are spending their Christmas in a refuge away from their home.

This year the Public Protection Unit based at Torquay Police Station set up a donation point to collect toys to give to the children who are living in domestic abuse refuges across the town. Aiming to spread some Christmas cheer officers at the station have donated over 50 toys and selection boxes which will be wrapped and ready to be opened on Christmas Day.

Police Sergeant James Dowler who set up the project wants to make sure that the children in the refuges have a Christmas surprise. He said: “This year has been difficult for us all, but none more so than those who have had to flee their family homes as a result of domestic abuse. Children are often the forgotten victims of domestic abuse and it is a sad fact that there are families across Torbay who will not be able to wake up in their own home on Christmas morning.

“One of the recipients, Torbay Domestic Abuse Service (TDAS), which is run by Sanctuary Supported Living, provides fantastic help to families affected by domestic abuse. I am pleased that we have been able to work in partnership together to support vulnerable children and keep them safe.

“I have been amazed by the generosity of officers and staff at Torquay Police Station and I hope these toys will go some small way to bringing some cheer to these families at Christmas.”

Claudia O’Neill, Sanctuary Supported Living’s local service manager for TDAS, added: “The children living at our refuge will be so thrilled to open the presents on Christmas Day. Some families had to leave behind their belongings when fleeing abusive situations, so it will mean so much to them to have something to open.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to send our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in this project at Torquay Police.”