Force demonstrates disability access scheme to students

People with a range of learning disabilities visited the control room at Police HQ to learn more about a potentially lifesaving access scheme.

Students from Nottingham Mencap visited on Wednesday last week to learn more about the Pegasus card, designed to make it easier for them to get help from the police when they need it.

After being talked through the application process, they also enjoyed a chat with Chief Constable Kate Meynell, who stressed the importance of ensuring the force is accessible to all.

Nottinghamshire Police has recently relaunched its Pegasus card scheme, which helps those who find it hard to speak or be understood in difficult or stressful situations.

Members of the scheme simply say “Pegasus” and quote their unique pin number, which allows call handlers or officers on the ground to access personal information held on a secure data base.

Anyone with a relevant disability or illness can register via the Nottinghamshire Police website for free.

Karen Aspley, from Nottingham Mencap, said: “It is really important that people with learning disabilities have the confidence to report crime and contact police when things are wrong.

“Having a Pegasus card means the police understand who they are, what disabilities they may have. Instead of having to explain that multiple times in a stressful situation, they can simply refer to their Pegasus card and get the help they need.

“A lot of people we work with are very literal – so having the ability to actually visit the control room and see a live demonstration has really helped to build their confidence to contact the police when they need to.”

Sophie Barker, first contact manager at Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The police service is here for everyone, and we have a responsibility to make ourselves as accessible as possible to the people who need our help. The Pegasus card is a really powerful tool and I would urge everyone who feels they may benefit from one to apply via our website.”