Earlier this month, two officers from Stechford response team attended a safe and well request on behalf of Birmingham City Council after an elderly gentleman had activated his care line, but failed to engage.
PC John King attended the property to find Mr Francis Tracey in total darkness as it emerged he had no heating or electricity and no food to eat. Being partially deaf, Mr Tracey was unable to hear anyone after pulling his care line, so was unable to communicate.
Growing concerned for Mr Tracey’s welfare, PC King and fellow officer PC Rebecca Crowley, later went to visit Mr Tracey again to provide him with hot food. The quick thinking officers then contacted local agencies to discuss the safe guarding issues, who in turn encouraged Mr Tracey to attend hospital to assess what appeared to be a badly infected wound on his hand.
The officers noticed that the gentlemen arrived at hospital in ripped clothes that were far too big for him, and certainly not appropriate for the cold weather.
Mr Tracey captured the hearts of officers with his charm and charisma and the officers knew what they had to do.
With winter on its way, PC King and PC Crowley took it upon themselves to buy some suitable winter wear for Mr Tracey.
Word spread fast around the station, and before they knew it, the rest of E Unit response team in Stechford had all chipped in to provide Mr Tracey a whole new outfit, including new boots and a nice warm coat.
Much to Mr Tracey’s surprise, the officers went to see him in hospital, where he is recovering well, to give him his new winter wardrobe.
If you have elderly neighbours, take five minutes and just check they are OK. If they need support you can contact Age UK at ageuk.org.uk/birmingham or contact Adult Social Care Service at birmingham.gov.uk/info/20018/adult_social_care_and_health
