Rochdale Police play secret Santa

Chief Inspector Umer Khan with one of the children at the Shamwari Project Secret Santa event

Smiles were on the faces of children from refugee and domestic abuse victim families who have been displaced from their homes as a result of war and conflict on Monday (22 December) when the 30 children – along with members of their families – attended an event at Castlemere Community Centre where police local officers, volunteers and charity workers from the Shamwari Project handed out presents.

The Shamwari Project is a charity based in Rochdale which works towards the integration of those with refugee status into the community, assisting them with educational and mentorship support in an effort to alleviate their hardships.

Chief Inspector Umer Khan from Rochdale Police said: “I recently visited the Shamwari Project to speak to the families and children supported by the project. I was moved to hear some of their stories.

“It is very difficult to comprehend how someone can deal with the loss of their homes, death and killing of family members as well as injustices that are very difficult to comprehend.

“I hope the event will help in some ways towards restoring the faith of these children and their families in humanity."

This is one of many initiatives Rochdale Borough officers have undertaken in recent weeks to support hard to reach groups. Other initiatives have included a festive event for the elderly in Norden and Bamford, a Christmas meal event for elderly residents in Heywood and handing out Christmas hampers to families throughout the borough.