Special seat belt covers for neurodivergent children

Sgt Gemma Birchley said she had peace of mind that emergency responders would know how to look after her son (pictured)

Hundreds of special seat belt covers are being given to neurodivergent children in Worcestershire to help emergency responders provide appropriate support.

The seat belt covers will contain a contact card with key information, so frontline workers know how to support individuals with conditions such as autism and ADHD.

Malvern Hills and Wychavon District Councils have teamed up with West Mercia Police's Autism and Neurodiversity Network for the scheme called Project Treasure.

Deputy Chief Constable Richard Cooper said: "These seat belt 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."

Project Treasure will see 500 seat belt covers provided to children who live or travel through Malvern and Wychavon.

Sgt Gemma Birchley, whose son is neurodivergent, said she had always been concerned that if something happened to her while driving that emergency responders many not know how best to look after him.

"He is liable to run off and maybe behave in an unexpected way that you would not expect with most children his age," she explained.

"Knowing an emergency worker will know how best to look after him is really peace of mind for me."

Malvern Hills District Council member Natalie McVey said: "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."

Councillor Rob Adams at Wychavon District Council said: "We are proud to be a part of this important project which will support people affected by neurodivergent conditions."