‘Project Treasure’ seatbelt covers for neurodivergent passengers
Malvern Hills and Wychavon District Councils in Worcestershire partner with West Mercia Police Autism & Neurodiversity Network on pioneering safety initiative.
Some 500 seatbelt covers will be issued to neurodivergent children and adults across the two districts as part of a new initiative to help emergency responders provide appropriate support in the event of a road-traffic accident. ‘STOP!’ says each cover in large, clear writing. ‘Look inside to keep me SAFE.’ Inside, responders will find a contact card with vital information about the specific needs of the child or adult, and how best to help them if the parent or carer is unresponsive or otherwise unable to relay such information.
Photo courtesy of Malvern Hills District Council
Initially, covers will be distributed to special education providers in the region. Interested residents can also apply for a seatbelt cover by visiting www.malvernhills.gov.uk/project-treasure
Richard Cooper, Temporary Deputy Chief Constable of West Mercia Police, says: ‘Emergency responders are called to all sorts of different incidents. What is common to all of them is that people are involved who need our help. These seatbelt covers will assist us in considering the individual person we are helping, and I am grateful to everyone who has committed time to making them a reality.’
Cllr Natalie McVey, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Health at Malvern Hills District Council, adds: ‘We are so pleased to be able to support this amazing project which will give that peace of mind to parents and carers. The covers will give emergency workers important information to enable them to provide the life-saving care that may be needed.’
Cllr Rob Adams, Executive Board Member for Stronger Communities, Culture and Sport on Wychavon District Council, says: ‘We are proud to be a part of this important project which will support people affected by neurodivergent conditions. It’s great to fund such crucial work to better support our community at a time of need.’
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