We know that there will be some police families who are finding it really tough to make ends meet. Finding space in force for a resource centre is a great way for those colleagues that need help to get it. It is also a way to recycle possessions quickly and easily.
A toy library is a type of resource centre, where colleagues can drop off unwanted toys and either swap them or leave them for others to pick up. This is a particularly helpful thing to do in the run up to Christmas.
Children’s clothes are another source of significant expense, especially given that they grow out of them so quickly. Passing these on to others is kind to the environment and a great way to save money.
Bedfordshire Police developed 3 food resource centres. This was achieved through force lottery funds and by colleagues dropping off unwanted items. The resource centres were all really well used particularly the one based at HQ. A great way to reduce food waste and help each other out.