Trauma Teddies scheme launched

Children caught up in a traumatic incident will be given brightly knitted teddy bears to provide comfort.

The toys will be carried in police patrol cars and handed to infants as a distraction upsetting circumstances such as a car crash or fire.

The “trauma teddies” scheme is already used by emergency services in parts of the UK and has now been launched in the Highlands and Islands.

The idea has been adopted from the ambulance service in Australia where a senior manager observed the calming effect on a child who was given a teddy bear during emergency treatment.

Kind-hearted knitters have donated over 800 teddies to the initiative in the Highlands and Islands which has been organised in partnership with the children's charity Safe, Strong and Free.

Inspector Judy Hill said: "We have been completely overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone who has given their time to knitting Trauma Teddies.

"You can be assured that your efforts will be put to good use providing comfort to children who need it across the Highlands and Islands.

"Teddies will be kept at police stations and in vehicles and officers will now have the option of giving a child one in the hope that it can provide a little comfort in what would be a difficult or upsetting situation.”

Kerry Glen, project co-ordinator with Safe, Strong and Free said: "The teddies we have received have been fabulous and will help give comfort in upsetting situations.”

A book 'Safer Strangers' will be included in the Trauma Teddy pack to help ensure children understand that members of the blue light services are there to help and can be trusted.

In addition, the teddies will also come with a postcard which provides contact details for Parentline, Children 1st’s helpline and online family support service.

This service provides access to additional support for children and families if they are worried about something that has happened to them or their child. Parentline offers a kind and skilled listening ear for parents, carers and relatives across Scotland.

Trauma Teddies scheme launched

8 September 2018