THE brave and kind voluntary work of ‘street pastors’ across the West Midlands is being highlighted by police – including during a recent emergency in Coventry.
West Midlands Police said: “We’re proud to work alongside Street Pastors who dedicate their free time to helping others – including an off-duty volunteer who rushed to the aid of an unconscious teen attacked in Coventry.
“Trevor Briers raced to the aid of the 18-year-old man after being alerted he had been knocked out and was fitting last Saturday evening (May 30).
“The 59-year-old’s Street Pastor training and instincts came to the fore and he offered immediate care and support. He also ensured a gathering of people stepped back to provide some space and allow paramedics to take over when they arrived.
“The man regained consciousness and he was taken to hospital with facial injuries.
“Trevor is part of the Coventry Street Pastors who voluntarily work alongside us, the council and night-time economy in the city centre. “They offer help, care and even just a listening ear to those who need support.
“While the coronavirus pandemic has impacted on the need for recent patrols, the role of the Pastors will continue to be vital in the future.”
Superintendent Phil Healy, of Coventry Police, said: “This was typical of the caring nature of Street Pastors which we’re extremely proud to work alongside.
“Trevor rushed to the aid of this young man and, through his training, knew what to do to help him until paramedics arrived.
“His immediate instinct was to help someone in harm and distress and we’re grateful to have him as a Street Pastor in our city… as we are with all his volunteer colleagues.
“It’s a valued role which hopefully more people will consider in the future.”
Coventry Street Pastors co-ordinator, Isabel McIntyre, added: “We are just glad that Trevor was there. It shows that street pastors are never really off duty, and that even though we are not out on the streets at the moment we can still be of help.
“Street pastors have 50 hours of training before going out on patrol and this shows that none of it is wasted. We can’t wait to resume our patrols.”
The force added: “There are Street Pastor groups based across the West Midlands cities and towns and we’re thankful for your support. For more information visit the https://streetpastors.org website.
*A 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assault in Beake Avenue, Holbrooks, and bailed pending further enquiries. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat or by calling 101, quoting 20CV/124532B/20.
