Trauma teddies handcrafted to comfort kids in Moray

TRAUMA teddies for young victims or witnesses of crime have been knitted by Moray Council staff.

Chief Inspector Maggie Miller collected the teddies today on behalf of Police Scotland, and these will be used to comfort young people in Moray as part of a nationwide initiative to provide trauma teddies for distressed kids.

Staff in Moray Council’s committee services team – Moira, Caroline and Lissa – have handcrafted 23 bears since August.

Lissa said they had spotted the initiative on social media and decided to give it a go.

“We got the pattern, went into the wool shop and got started! It’s nice that they’re going to kids that need them – and it’s good for us as it stops us snacking at night!”

Caroline enjoyed the challenge of crafting the teddies.

"Sewing the faces on was probably the hardest part, that and trying to decide on colour combinations. We all feel it's a very worthwhile cause and we're happy to support this initiative.”

Moira said that the teddies were fun to knit and the pattern was easy to follow - even for a non-knitter like herself!

"I've grown quite attached to my little family of teddies and it's heartening to know they'll bring comfort to children that need them."

Chief Inspector Maggie Miller thanked the team for their efforts.

“These trauma teddies will accompany police offers on patrol so can be given to young people in the immediate aftermath of any distressing situation. They’re an invaluable way of breaking down communication barriers between officers and children, and bring comfort at a time when it’s much needed.

“We’re really grateful for the donation of these trauma teddies and would like to say a big thank you for the time and care taken to craft these for our young children in Moray.”

Famous for its colony of dolphins, fabulous beaches and more malt whisky distilleries than any where else in Scotland, Moray is a thriving area and a great place to live. Nestling between Aberdeenshire and the Highlands, Moray stretches from Tomintoul in the south to the shores of the Moray Firth, from Keith in the east to Brodie Castle in the west.