Kind-hearted cop helps keep elderly South Shields siblings safe during coronavirus lockdown

PCSO Gayle Muizelaar was on patrol in Horsley Hill Square in the town when she spotted an elderly woman walking to a bus stop.

She approached the woman to speak to her about why she was outside and to see if there was any way that she could help.

Joyce, 74, explained how she was out for essential medication and to shop for her 76-year-old brother who had just been discharged from hospital.

Her brother had no family apart from her and she wanted to make sure that he had all the food and supplies he needed as he is self-isolating.

Concerned that Joyce was leaving her home, and potentially putting herself and brother at risk, Gayle provided the number for a support team.

Last week Gayle re-visited Joyce where she revealed that she had contacted Hebburn Hub and was due to receive a food parcel the next day.

Gayle then visited her brother and made arrangements for him to receive a food parcel and have vital medication delivered to his door-step.

Now Chief Superintendent Sarah Pitt, Southern Area Commander at Northumbria Police, has praised Gayle for going above and beyond.

“This was a fantastic gesture by Gayle who used her initiative and approached Joyce in the street to have a chat,” said Chief Supt Pitt.

“They struck up a conversation and Gayle was concerned enough to try to make arrangements so both Joyce and her brother could self-isolate.

“Both are now receiving the support they need that will allow them to remain at home and safeguard themselves.

“I am so proud of Gayle but I know that officers across our region are engaging with vulnerable members of the public in the same way.

“If you are vulnerable and are still having to leave your home to get supplies then please know that support is out there – don’t put yourselves at risk.

“Likewise, if you know a vulnerable person who is having to shop for their own food and supplies then see if you can get support on their behalf.

“We have a fantastic community here in the North East and we need to work together now more than ever to save lives.”

For details of what local support is available for vulnerable people, members of the public can visit the website of your local authority.

If you are concerned that a vulnerable person may be taken advantage of, or is the victim of crime, then please report it on the Northumbria Police website.

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