‘Heartwarming’ visit by officers to Ipswich charity

A team of Suffolk officers paid a visit to a local charity in Ipswich recently.

Members of the Sentinel team along with Chief Constable Rachel Kearton spent time at the Bumblebee Children’s Charity where the youngsters could try on parts of the uniform and explore the police cars. The charity is the force's nominated charity for the year and is a specialist centre working together with families to support babies and young children with physical difficulties taking part in a fun filled sensory programme.

Sgt Dave Logan said: “It was heartwarming to see the smiles on the children’s faces and was a truly humbling experience for all of the team. We were asked to attend due to the long-standing connection PC George Harvey and Police Staff Investigator Christie Harvey have had with the charity, having taken their son there from a young age.

“The charity operates solely on grants and donations and yet provides an incredible lifeline to families. Parents and carers shared how much they value the weekly sessions, which not only help their children learn through play but also equip them with tools to continue that learning at home. The parents told us that these sessions also offer a vital space for parents to connect with others who understand the unique challenges they face.”

Christie Harvey said: “Bumblebees were a support network for us in the early days of our son Otis’ diagnosis of being physically and cognitively disabled, up until he went to school. They provided Otis with physiotherapy and sensory play.  They also provided us as parents emotional support, and the opportunity to spend time with other parents of children with complex needs.

 “All of this was provided free of charge, which is incredible given they are completely charity funded themselves. We will always be grateful for all their support, and encourage people to donate to such a worthwhile charity.”

Chief Constable Rachel Kearton said: “The Bumblebee Children’s Charity is our nominated force charity for this year. It is clear having visited they do such important work and have such dedicated and committed staff working for them. It was a real honour to attend and meet the children, families and staff, and we look forward to supporting their work in any way we can.”