Special Christmas delivery for refuge children

Tony Lloyd, Father Christmas and Chief Superintendent Vanessa Jardine

Greater Manchester Police and Victim Support are bringing festive cheer to children of domestic violence victims.

Police officers and staff and Victim Support staff have donated toys for children spending this Christmas in a refuge.

Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd, Chief Superintendent Vanessa Jardine and Angela Stewart from Victim Support handed the presents over to Father Christmas who will deliver them to refuges across Greater Manchester.

Tony said: “Refuges provide a lifeline for victims of domestic violence and their children but they can be a bit bleak at Christmas time. These donations will make sure that all the children who are spending the festive season in a refuge get a present this Christmas. Thanks to the staff and officers at Greater Manchester Police and Victim Support for their generosity, this will bring a smile to many children’s faces on Christmas Day morning.”

Victim Support Greater Manchester has run a refuge toy appeal at Christmas for over 20 years.

Angela Stewart from Victim Support said: “We are only too aware of the impact of domestic abuse in the home and of the devastation caused to a parent and child who find themselves having to flee to a place of safety, particularly at this time of year.

“We have had a bumper response this year thanks to the support of GMP officers and staff at Nexus House, as well as local communities, businesses and our own staff and volunteers. We are absolutely delighted that all children, in all refuge accommodation throughout Greater Manchester, will receive a gift this Christmas.”