Children wake to abseiling SAPOL Santa at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital

SA Police joins forces with staff and volunteers at the Women’s and Children’s hospital to host a special Christmas party for the kids on Thursday morning.

Kids and their families gasped with excitement at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital on Thursday morning, as Santa abseiled down the building to bring them early gifts.

Swapping his blue uniform for a Santa suit, SA Police Superintendent David Schutchings made a theatrical entrance as he slid down a rope on the side of the building, as kids watched on.

In a joint effort, South Australia Police alongside staff and volunteers from the WCH, hosted the Blue Light Police Christmas Party, which saw mischievous clown doctors, Disney characters, the Band of the SA Police, Dog Operations Unit, police motorcycles and abseiling elves.

Excited gasps from patients and their families were heard at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital (WCH) when Santa abseiled a building to join police at a magical Christmas party. Picture: SA Police

Georgie and Sergeant Wood enjoying the police party. Picture: SA Police

As Santa entered the building, officers joined him on a ward tour to ensure children who were unable to attend the party were still able to receive presents.

Branch Chair of the Police Link Program, Senior Sergeant Mark Orford said it was good for all involved and looked forward to the program continuing in the years to come.

“This program is all about having fun with the kids, and without our volunteers the program wouldn’t exist, so I’m very thankful to everyone involved,” he said.

“It’s a rewarding day for our officers and we hope the program will continue to grow.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved for continued support of the program and my fellow colleagues, including Assistant Commissioner Simon Watkins and Chief Inspector Melissa Gilchrist, for being here today.”

Santa Scutchings hearing Oliver’s Christmas wishes. Picture: SA Police

Chief Inspector Melissa Gilchrist, and Assistant Commissioner Simon Watkins getting into the Christmas spirit. Picture: SA Police

The morning was a success which saw many smiles on faces, as the SA Police Band created an upbeat atmosphere during the event with familiar carols and even added the classic Star Wars soundtrack to its setlist.

Each year, the Police Link program sees officers visit the WCH and Flinders Medical Centre several times throughout the year to positively engage with children who are unwell or undergoing medical treatment for serious health issues.

Visits involve officers delivering crime prevention messages to children while aiming to build kid’s trust and confidence in SA Police.

“The visits are always well-received and bring a smile to children, providing an uplifting distraction from their hospital admission,” SSgt Orford said.