Police and Crime Commissioner Darryl Preston visited Peterborough-based charity, Little Miracles last week as part of a wider visit to the city.

After meeting students at the Jack Hunt School and speaking to local residents, the Commissioner met with staff and parents at the special needs charity in Hartwell Way to see for himself the devastation caused by a break-in and subsequent robbery that took place earlier this month.

Little Miracles supports families with children who have additional needs and life-limiting conditions.

Mr Preston said: “This abhorrent crime has caused thousands of pounds worth of damage but more than that it has left a particularly vulnerable community deeply shocked.

“As Commissioner a key part of my role is to provide support services for victims of crime. Any robbery can have devastating consequences for victims however the impact of this on the families and children regularly using the facilities offered is heartbreaking.

“While the police are working hard to investigate this crime, I urge anyone with any information to come forward.”

Michelle King, CEO of Little Miracles added: “Whilst the break-in has had a devastating effect on our charity, we are so touched at the way the local community has come together to support us”.

At the Jack Hunt School, the Commissioner met secondary school pupils to discuss their concerns around local and national crime issues such as knife crime and drug misuse. Students also presented some of their research findings and discussed the Commissioner’s role.

Careers Co-ordinator Viv Parr explained: “This has been a great opportunity for the students to present their views of both local crime that affects them personally and also national issues. The students enjoyed hearing the response from the Commissioner and felt heard and their opinions valued.”

Mr Preston added: ‘From early intervention with young people to prevent them getting drawn into a life of crime, to breaking the cycle of reoffending, it is important that partners work together to reduce crime. Today was a great opportunity to listen to some of our young people to understand their concerns.”






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