THE CHIEF Constable of Warwickshire Police has slammed the ‘shameful and unacceptable’ theft of hand sanitiser from hospitals, and called on residents to show ‘care and consideration’ for each other.
Ch Con Martin Jelley also praised healthcare workers and volunteers who are supporting those affected by coronavirus.
He said: “While we have already seen a community-minded response to helping people, we have also had some incidents of hand sanitiser being removed from within hospitals and medical centres. This is shameful and unacceptable behaviour and prevents skilled professionals doing their job.
“We all have a social responsibility in these unprecedented times and I would ask people in Warwickshire to show care and consideration for each other, while making the appropriate personal preparations and to do so in a proportionate and conscientious manner.”
He said the force had plans in place to ensure it would continue to respond to emergency calls, but urged residents to be mindful of the increasing pressures on emergency services.
“We will always prioritise our response to ensure those most at risk or in need receive our help,” he said.
“Always call 999 in an emergency – but if your contact is not urgent please consider the alternative ways to contact the emergency services or get the appropriate and timely guidance you need, such as logging onto our websites.
He also praised the way in partners and volunteers across the county were pulling together in these ‘extraordinary times’.
He said: “Seeing the huge efforts and actions of the emergency services, healthcare colleagues and local authority partners, coupled with the support from the county’s local volunteers, I know that we are a strong county which will pull together effectively as we prepare for the challenging weeks and months ahead.
“It is at times like these when caring for each other is of vital importance.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank residents and businesses around the county for supporting us in our efforts to protect and keep people safe in Warwickshire.”
