Ely Police Crime Reduction Officer Sue Loaker has thanked the community for their help in successfully launching her ‘Sue’s Essentials’ initiative.

Ely Standard: ‘Essentials by Sue’ project, run by (left) Sue Loaker, Crime Reduction Officer for East Cambridgeshire, going into Ely College, with (right) Mrs Lynn Richies, Safeguarding Officer,‘Essentials by Sue’ project, run by (left) Sue Loaker, Crime Reduction Officer for East Cambridgeshire, going into Ely College, with (right) Mrs Lynn Richies, Safeguarding Officer, (Image: Archant)

The case of a 12-year-old girl caught shoplifting toiletries in Ely inspired Sue to kick-start the initiative that aims to reduce crime – theft in particular – through the distribution of free toiletries, sanitary items and underwear.

Toothbrushes, sanitary towels, hairbrushes and bras are just a selection of goods on offer to teenagers and young people who may be unable to buy the items themselves or may not be receiving them at home.

Sue’s Essentials was launched in April, and has since seen boxes installed at Ely College, Soham Village College, Witchford Village College, Ely Foodbank and most recently, Burwell GP surgery.

Ms Loaker said: “The local community response has been superb.

“If you would like to make a donation, you can leave sealed products that you have bought in the supermarket - shampoos, soap, razors, sanitary towels and so on - at the GPs surgery and we will ensure that they are passed to you people who need them.”

Donations are also accepted at Ely police station.