The Wadebridge event helping adults feel safe to call 999

For some people, the sight of a uniform or the sound of a siren is enough to stop them picking up the phone when they need help most. A long-running event at the Royal Cornwall Showground sets out to change that.

Nineteen years of Blue Light Day

Blue Light Day brings hundreds of adults with learning disabilities and autism together at the Royal Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge. Now in its nineteenth year, the event raises awareness of what the emergency services do, when to call them and how to do so.

It also gives emergency workers the chance to learn more about supporting people with learning disabilities and autism during incidents. Attendees were encouraged to visit stands and take part in activities throughout the all-day event, which took place on Wednesday 1 July. Adults from across Cornwall were invited to attend from local groups and organisations.

Breaking down barriers

Police Sergeant Flo Linscott, from the Diverse Communities team, said the day plays a real role in reaching people who might otherwise stay silent.

“I never underestimate the importance of events like this in breaking down barriers within our communities,” Flo said.

“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.”

The wider blue light family

This year’s event brought together representatives from Devon & Cornwall Police, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, Southwest Ambulance Service and the NHS, alongside the RNLI, Coastguard, Search and Rescue, Blood Bikes, 4×4 Rescue, St Johns Ambulance and many other support charities and local organisations.

PC Sarah Treeby, who supported at the event, said it means a lot to people well beyond the day itself.

“This is a much-loved event for many across Cornwall,” Sarah said. “Thank you to all our local partners who came together to help make this possible.”

More than a safety message

The day was organised by the Blue Light Day Planning Team, a multi-agency partnership. Magi Omlo-Coad, a long standing member of the team, said the event has grown steadily since it began.

“This event has been running for 19 years and has grown year on year,” Magi said.

“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.”

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