Emergency services share advice to adults with learning disabilities and autism on how to get help

Blue Light Day is an annual event that brings hundreds of adults with learning disabilities and autism together at the Royal Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge. 

The unique event, which is now in its nineteenth year, sets out to raise awareness of the role of emergency services, when to call them and how to do so.

It’s also an opportunity for emergency workers to learn more about how they can best support individuals with learning disabilities and autism during incidents.

Attendees were encouraged to visit stands and take part in activities to learn about the support available from a range of organisations during the all-day event.

Police Sergeant for the Diverse Communities team, Flo Linscott, said: “I never underestimate the importance of events like this in breaking down barriers within our communities.

“We know that the uniforms, loud sirens and flashing lights can be intimidating.

“Being able to show that we’re simply people here to help keep everyone safe, no matter who they are, is so important.

“It might just make the difference between someone picking up the phone in an emergency or reporting something that’s happened to them.”

This year’s event brought together representatives from Devon & Cornwall Police, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, Southwest Ambulance Service, NHS and the wider blue light family, including the RNLI, Coastguard, Search and Rescue, Blood Bikes, 4x4 Rescue, St Johns Ambulance as well as many other support charities and local organisations.

PC Sarah Treeby, who supported at the event, added: “This is a much-loved event for many across Cornwall. Thank you to all our local partners who came together to help make this possible.”

Adults from across Cornwall were invited from local groups and organisations to attend the Blue Light Day, which took place on Wednesday 1 July.

This year’s event was organised by the Blue Light Day Planning Team, a multi-agency partnership.

Magi Omlo-Coad, who is a long standing member of the planning team for the event, said: “This event has been running for 19 years and has grown year on year.

"It is important that along with the messages from emergency services, it is recognised as a wonderful opportunity for this community to spend time with friends and like-minded people and it offers them the unique chance to showcase and celebrate their talents and abilities.”  

Photo above: (L & R) PC Andrew Rowe and PC Sarah Treeby from the Diverse Communities Team. (M) Fliss Hedge from Cornwall People First