Young police volunteers write letters to isolated patients

Young people in Gwent have been writing letters and messages of support to care home residents and hospital patients that can’t receive visitors due to the Coronavirus.

Members of the Gwent Police Cadets and Heddlu Bach Mini Police are working with the Aneurin Bevan Health Board to reach as many people as possible, and letters have been sent to 18 care homes so far.

The young volunteers were working with the health board to visit dementia patients when the Government introduced new measures to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. Unable to make any more visits they decided to start writing letters instead.

Alexys Baxter, Heddlu Bach member from Bryn Awel Primary in Rhymney, Tredegar, said: “It is sad that so many people can’t see their friends and family but we hope that our letters can give them a smile. Hopefully when this is over we will be able to visit some of the people who received our letters and talk to them about what we do in the Heddlu Bach.”

Chief Constable Pam Kelly said: “I am incredibly proud of the work our cadets and Heddlu Bach are doing to support some of the most vulnerable residents in our community.

“They are helping to brighten the day of those who are isolated from their friends and family, and stand as a reminder that we will all come out of this stronger if we work together.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: “This is fantastic to see. The Gwent Police Cadets and Heddlu Bach are a great example to us all and I have no doubt that their letters will make the day for many vulnerable patients.”

If you are interested in receiving letters from Gwent Police Cadets and Heddlu Bach Mini Police contact cadets@gwent.pnn.police.uk