29th June
People with disabilities can be disproportionately vulnerable to crime in our community. Nottingham Mencap have worked with Nottinghamshire Police Service, The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner & Nottinghamshire Trent University to produce a film and an easy read guide to support people applying for a Pegasus Card. The film and booklet explain what a Pegasus card is? How it works, and how to get one?
What Nottinghamshire Police and Nottingham Mencap say:
“It helps in our contact with individuals around our communities who may find other methods of communication does not fit their needs. It gives people greater flexibility when accessing Police, Fire or Ambulance allowing individuals to decide on the best form of communication for them.”
Police Spokesperson
“ We whole heartedly support Nottinghamshire Police and the Pegasus Scheme to help people stay safe in our community.” Many of our service users use public transport and enjoy going out and about in the city centre. Being part of this scheme gives them an added confidence and security that if something goes wrong, they can get help easily. Nottingham Mencap will be supporting people with learning disabilities and local disability organisations, to sign people over the coming year. We want people with learning disabilities to be able to access community assets in the same way as everyone else. This card will help do that”.
Karen Aspley Smile! Stop Hate Crime Project, Nottingham Mencap
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry said: “It is so important that our policing service meets the diverse needs of everyone in our community and the Pegasus Card scheme is a great way to ensure people with learning disabilities can access help if they need it – reducing their risk of vulnerability.
“I am proud to support the scheme, including the promotional film and leaflets, to make people aware that this great initiative is available to help people.”
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry said: “It is so important that our policing service meets the diverse needs of everyone in our community and the Pegasus Card scheme is a great way to ensure people with learning disabilities can access help if they need it – reducing their risk of vulnerability.
“I am proud to support the scheme, including the promotional film and leaflets, to make people aware that this great initiative is available to help people.”
What is Pegasus and why do I need a card?
People with learning disabilities can find it especially hard to communicate with the police in an emergency and may have additional communication needs. People can apply online ( https://www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/Pegasus) to receive a Pegasus Card, this means that in an emergency, instead of spending time giving personal details when they maybe distressed; the individual can say “Pegasus” and give their card number. The officer dealing with the incident can then quickly look up information about the person and gain an understanding of their challenges. This enables officers to establish how best to help the individual as quickly and as effectively as possible.
How do I get a Pegasus Card?
Use the new easy read help booklet attached to apply online.
Link to film: https://youtu.be/FXF8vhf5vBY