A SPECIAL school in Bromsgrove has been taking part in a West Mercia Police inclusion programme.

Students at Chadsgrove Special School in Catshill have volunteered with the force, looking after the gardens at Bromsgrove Station and resume car valeting for West Mercia Police.

The scheme started in 2016 to give people with a disability the opportunity to volunteer with the police.

The programme identifies the skills and abilities of the volunteer before finding them roles within the force, with an agreed reward and recognition element.

Emma Nolan, Preparing for Adulthood, Transition, and Life Beyond Education Coordinator at Chadsgrove Special School, said: “The collaboration that Chadsgrove Special School has with Bromsgrove Police is invaluable. Our pupils really enjoy working in the communal garden and interacting with PC Stone and his colleagues.

“The weekly visit enables our pupils work on their life skills, such as communication, speaking and teamwork.”

PC Lloyd Stone, who links with the school, said: “I get great satisfaction from seeing the children so interested in police life and what we do.

“We are trying to get a positive message over to them that we are there to support and help. I would like to give a massive thanks for what they have done and continue to do for us.

“It's a great help, and so rewarding for all parties involved.”