A Devizes volunteer has been praised for her unique way of supporting children in crisis – by knitting toys that Wiltshire Police officers now carry in their patrol cars.
For more than a year, Hazel Bush has been creating trauma dolls that are handed to children caught up in distressing incidents, including road traffic collisions and domestic abuse.
Her creations range from traditional teddy bears to ballerinas, firefighters, police officers and even Smurfs.
Hazel said: “I’ve been knitting everything and anything.
“It only takes a little of my time and some leftover wool, and if it helps someone, I’m more than happy to do it.
“Even the officers love them.”
The initiative began when Hazel’s great-niece, Emma Matthews, who works in the Wiltshire Police control room in Devizes, started taking the toys into work. They have since been distributed to officers across the force.
Emma said: “They were originally used to support children involved in road traffic collisions and domestic incidents.
“Now, they’re also being given to officers as morale boosters – and they’ve been incredibly well received.
“We’re greeted with smiles every time. Aunty Hazel ensures the toys are safe, with no small parts that could fall off. Seeing the joy they bring, whether to children or officers, is truly special.”
Now, Wiltshire Police is appealing for more volunteers to join its Bobby Van scheme. These are people who freely give their time to help out with the schemes it runs. Current vacancies are shared on its website.
For more details on these, or to find out more about the trauma teddies and how to get involved, log on to: www.bobbyvan.org.
