West Mercia officers supporting Christmas toy appeal
4 December 2025
West Mercia Police Federation members can help make Christmas brighter for vulnerable children by donating to a present appeal.
For the fifth consecutive year, West Mercia Police colleagues are playing a key role in helping the campaign reach some of the most disadvantaged young people in the Force area.
Officers are encouraged to support the Mission Christmas Cash for Kids Toy Appeal, supported by Free Radio.
It aims to make sure children who might receive nothing on Christmas morning have something special to open.
<pic courtesy of West Mercia Police>
Detective Inspector Marie Green, a Federation member and one of the campaign organisers, said: “I work in a Child Protection Unit, and the thought of a child waking up with no present is really sad.
“I just wanted to do something to help, and to make Christmas brighter for those who need it most.”
Federation members can donate toys at any B&M store, or give directly through the Force’s Mission Christmas fundraising page.
What began as a small Worcester-based effort five years ago, has now grown into a Force-wide tradition.
Donations
West Mercia Police officers and staff donated more than 700 presents and more than £500 in online donations last year.
Gifts included toys, games, books, puzzles and stationery, all distributed by Cash for Kids volunteers to children referred through schools, charities and support services.
Marie said that as a parent, the campaign feels particularly personal.
She said: “These things hit harder when you’re a parent. You feel very sensitive towards the children.
“Working in child protection, sometimes we’re taking them out of horrible situations, even on Christmas Eve.
Support
“If they wake up in a foster placement with nothing to open, it’s devastating. I just wanted to do something to help.”
The Force is again asking for the kind support of the public in making Christmas more magical for children who really deserve it.
However, they are asked not to bring presents into West Midlands Police stations.
Instead, they can support the appeal by making a toy donation at any B&M store. Or they can give online via the West Mercia Police fundraising page.
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