Gifts donated to local charity as part of force’s birthday celebrations

To celebrate turning 50 this year Cleveland Police wanted to give back to our community.

The Teesside Family Foundation – which was chosen as the force’s charity when Chief Constable (CC) Mark Webster joined in April 2022 – was gifted a donation from our officers and staff.

They are a registered charity run by voluntary Teesside trustees who help, support and provide assistance to local families and individuals who do not have the means, are underprivileged or have fallen on hard times due to ill health.

Their charity provides families and individuals with short breaks in mobile homes at Primrose Valley.

(Chair of The Teesside Family Foundation Richard Poole meeting Chief Constable Mark Webster)

Our ‘birthday’ money has helped to buy brand new outdoor and indoor toys, board games, beach toys, new bedding and other items needed to help furnish a fully accessible holiday home for families who are due to be staying there this summer.

CC Webster said: “There are so many fantastic charities doing great work for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

“The Teesside Family Foundation provides an opportunity for local families and individuals to have a well-deserved break when they may never get that chance as well as supporting sporting activities in some of the most deprived areas.

“While birthdays are traditionally known for receiving gifts, we wanted to turn that around and instead give back to people within our community.

“I want to thank everyone who kindly donated to the charity and put a smile on many faces.”

Chair of The Teesside Family Foundation Richard Poole said: “The Teesside family Foundation are delighted that Chief Constable Mark Webster has chosen us to be Cleveland Police’s charity!

“Having received a generous donation raised from the force recently celebrating its 50th birthday we have made sure that the funds have been put to immediate use helping those in need across Teesside.

“We are a Teesside charity committed to supporting local people and local causes throughout the Teesside area and our aim is to improve the quality of life to all those in need in our communities.”

You can find out more about the charity by visiting their website