Care of Police Survivors

Overview

Care of Police Survivors (COPS) is a UK-based charity focused on supporting the families of police officers and staff who have lost their lives while on duty. The charity was founded in March 2003 by Jim McNulty, a retired police officer from Strathclyde Police, and Christine Fulton, the widow of PC Lewis Fulton who was murdered in Glasgow in 1994. COPS is registered with the Charity Commission under the number 1170760.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of COPS is to provide peer support to the families of fallen police officers and staff, helping them cope with the tragedy of losing a loved one. This support is tailored to the specific needs of each family, ranging from emotional support to more practical help. The charity aims to ensure that surviving family members have access to the support they need and remain part of the police community.

Support Services

COPS offers a network of peer support, connecting families with others who have experienced similar tragedies. This peer support can be one-to-one or part of a larger group, depending on the needs of the family. The unique understanding that comes from shared experiences allows COPS to provide a tailored support system that is deeply empathetic and effective.

Structure and Operations

COPS is designed to be flexible in its support approach, recognizing that every family's needs are different. The charity works with new survivors by making initial contact to explain their services and inviting families to reach out as needed. This approach allows families to take control of the level of support they require.

Legacy and Community Engagement

By fostering a community of survivors, COPS helps to ensure that those who have lost loved ones stay connected to the broader police family. This support network is crucial for healing and rebuilding lives in the aftermath of tragedy.

Fundraising and Donations

COPS relies on donations and fundraising efforts to sustain its support services. Donations are often made in memory of officers who have lost their lives on duty and are crucial for maintaining the charity's operations. Various fundraising activities and events are conducted annually to support the charity's mission.

[1] https://policecharitiesuk.org/charities-list/for-families-loved-ones/care-of-police-survivors-cops/ [2] https://ukcops.org [3] https://www.instagram.com/ukcops/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5090168 [5] https://www.justgiving.com/careofpolicesurvivors