PW_4_2021

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Operation Zephyr: An International Aid Mission Aiden Goundry , West Mercia Branch Early this year I was approached by David Scott, IPA member and Chair of the National Police Aid Charities, because he had a plan to help The Gambia. T o date, much of the NPAC work has involved providing lorry loads of aid around the world. These have included medical and school supplies, along with many other items to help developing nations, and you can learn about them at: www.npac.org.uk This time, Dave’s plan was different. He wanted to take a convoy of

Our crew of over 100 has now been recruited. Volunteers from across the UK, Belgium, Germany and Spain flocked to the cause. Our first briefing session saw officers from around the UK attend, with many more taking part virtually. IPA colleagues across Europe have committed their support, promising to make Op Zephyr a mission that every member can be proud of. This project has already resulted in 100 new members to Section UK, and as we continue to gain publicity, this should only continue. I urge every Branch and Region to support members from their area who have joined the expedition. Financial assistance if you can, but even if not, logistical support for fundraising and anything else you can do will make a huge difference to the team. You can learn more about our fundraising at: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/MerciaZephyr or even use our QR code to donate directly: In my eyes, Operation Zephyr exemplifies what the IPA is all about. People who have never met, coming together to make a difference to the lives of others, through service and In Friendship.

ambulances across the Sahara to The Gambia, which he named Operation Zephyr. He asked IPA members to be his crew, in what would be the biggest action of its kind ever performed by the Association. NPAC had heard there was very little ambulance cover in The Gambia, particularly in rural areas, which is having a severe impact on those communities. This mission will save the lives of thousands of Gambians, many of whom cannot otherwise access urgent medical care. In a country where maternal and infant mortality in The Gambia is estimated at 1,050 deaths per 100,000 live births (rural areas are disproportionately affected). They also suffer an unbelievably high number of deaths, and amputations due to late treatment, with amputations often deemed convenient because travel to aftercare at hospitals is impossible. What start as straightforward, or minor injuries, soon become life-changing or life-threatening, due to the lack of basic infrastructure. Our mission to provide an ambulance service will make all the difference.

Dave Scott briefing the volunteers

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POLICE WORLD Vol 66 No.4, 2021