Top cop to snorkel with sharks

Chief constable supporting child bereavement charity

Devon and Cornwall's top cop James Vaughan is to go snorkelling with sharks.

Chief constable James Vaughan will take to the waters of a shark-infested tank at the National Marine Aquarium at the end of this month to raise money for Luna’s Fund, his charity of the year.

Founded in 2018 by the parents of a little girl, Luna's Fund supports bereaved families after the loss of their baby before, during or after birth.

Chief constable Vaughan will be joined by Luna’s mother Aimee Green, who is also the CEO of the charity, on 29 November, Luna’s birthday.

Expressing her delight at being chosen as a charity of the year Ms Green said: “We have huge plans and aspirations for the charity with our main focus to expand our baby loss support to Exeter and surrounding areas next year.

“Eight years ago, I was completely broken and could barely function. To now be marking Luna’s eighth birthday in this way, side by side with the chief constable, feels surreal and incredibly meaningful. It’s a true reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is always light ahead.

“I would like to thank all officers and staff in Devon and Cornwall Police for their support and for sharing their personal stories with me and in particular a big thank you to chief constable Vaughan who has bravely agreed to join me.”

Mr Vaughan said: “Luna’s Fund is a wonderful charity providing valuable support and resources to bereaved parents across Devon and Cornwall at an incredibly difficult time.

“When Aimee asked me to join her to snorkel with sharks on Luna’s special day, although a little nervous, I didn’t hesitate because this is such an amazing cause. If you can, please donate, share, or simply send some love. I know our support means so much to Aimee, the charity and the families they help across our counties.”

Luna’s Fund offers services to bereaved families such as redecorating the baby’s nursery, restoring the room to its original decoration or alternative use if parents find the room too painful to remain as a nursery. Relaxing getaways are offered to help with trauma and recovery from labour giving parents the time and space to grieve. Food shopping deliveries are provided to give breathing space between grieving parents and the outside world.

The charity also offers private antenatal scans for parents who are pregnant again after their loss, giving them reassurance and additional peace of mind when they need it most providing three scans free of charge for families to use which are complimentary to their NHS scans.

The Devon and Cornwall Chief Constable's Foundation is an internal fundraising group within the force that provides grants to local charities and community projects that align with the organisation’s values such as supporting victims of crime or promoting community wellbeing. Funds are raised by police staff and officers through internal fundraising efforts by police officers and staff, such as charity events.

Previously it has supported the Pete's Dragons charity, a bereavement charity based in Exmouth, and the Devon and Cornwall Food Action (DCFA).