Thinking of those affected by trauma this Christmas

As we enter a new year, I want to reflect on the events that occurred over the festive period.

I wish to acknowledge the devastating fire in Brimscombe which took the lives of a mother, two children and pet dog: the family of one of our own Gloucestershire Constabulary Officers. The fire on Boxing Day was truly shocking, and my thoughts and condolences go out to the Officer, Tom and his wider family. As well as all the emergency service personnel that attended the incident, and the other traumatic incidents that they go to each and every day. I thank them all for their service to our communities in the darkest of times.

For this fire to take place on Boxing Day, at a time when families come together and children are at the forefront of our minds, makes the horror of it all the more pertinent.

These incidents have huge impacts on their communities. This week, children in Stroud went back to Primary and Pre-school with two friends missing.

It has, however, been uplifting to see the massive amount of kindness and care that has been extended following this tragedy. People from around the world have been deeply touched and have been exceptionally generous in donating to a Just Giving page for Tom. We’ve seen church services and vigils being held to remember this much-loved family.

I cannot begin to grasp the unimaginable pain that Tom and his family must be going through.

Police Officers spend their days tackling danger and experiencing trauma, and when such an incident happens to one of our own it is hard to comprehend. The force is supporting Tom and his family through this time.

Tom released a statement paying tribute to his family recently, where he closed by saying: "Please all take every opportunity to hug your loved ones, tell them you love them. Because, as Paulo Coelho said, one day you will wake up and there won't be any more time to do the things you want. Do it now.”

This new year I want to highlight the bravery of our emergency services and for everyone to follow Tom’s sentiments, to hold their loved ones a little closer, and to be grateful for all we have around us.

Our families, friends and communities are what bring colour to our lives.