Why the Memorial Garden is Important

The garden is a special place dedicated to the memory of all officers who lost their lives in the service of Leicestershire Police. It serves as a respectful place of solace and remembrance for the families, friends, and colleagues of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty or following dedicated service for Leicestershire Police.

The garden holds deep personal significance to both of us, and many others, as it’s a space where we can remember those who gave everything to keep our communities safe. It’s a place visited by family members across the generations looking to connect and remember their loved ones, quite recently we welcomed the granddaughter of an officer who visited the site from Australia to connect with the memory of her grandfather.

Policing is not just a job, it is a unique and challenging profession, marked by acts of heroism and sacrifice each and every day. The average person may be exposed to trauma a few times during their life, yet operational staff in the police force can experience between 600- 800 traumatic events across the span of their service. This takes its’ toll on officers’ mental health - not only as the individuals involved, but also for their extended families.

Tragically some officers pay the ultimate price - sacrificing their lives in the line of duty.

Ceremonies and acts of remembrance play a significant role in creating unity across Policing, they provide support for those that may be suffering, whether they are officers, staff or families. The garden will continue to provide a sanctuary for serving officers, enabling them to decompress and engage in quiet contemplation. It will act as a visible and living symbol of remembrance to honour those that have served and are no longer with us.

What The Donations Will Be Used For

The effects of time and weather have taken their toll on the current garden, and we want to restore, renew and enhance it to reflect the dignity and distinction that these officers deserve. In addition to honouring fallen officers, the proposed new garden will also remember the police dogs who have contributed to the force over the years, this is reflected through our collaboration with, and donations from the Blue Paw Foundation.

All funds raised will be used to update and renew the existing site to enhance the space so it can serve multiple purposes, including:

• As a place for everyday reflection by serving and retired officers and staff, along with their family members at this safe space within Leicestershire Police HQ.

• To be the recognised heart of Police HQ by creating useful connections between different buildings within the site and;

• To enable the garden to be used for ceremonies, celebrations, and community gatherings where people come together.

The main aims of the project are:

• To enhance and renew the hard landscaping

• To incorporate existing planting and soft landscape as well as to enhance this where appropriate

• To create a minimal-maintenance design which is accessible to all and stands the test of time

• To focus on durable, long-lasting memorials in materials in keeping with the design

• To provide accessible space and seating in reflective spaces, for individuals and with larger events in mind

• To assess the practicalities for the inclusion of an electronic role of honour and connection to online tributes, information, news and celebrations

• To explore the design of a lighting scheme which will enable year-round use

• To provide a sanctuary for those that are currently serving to use for quiet contemplation to enhance wellbeing

Relying on public funding is not feasible due to significant budget cuts, which will inevitably only lead to a further decline in the facilities.

It is with in mind that we are seeking your support to deliver this important and meaningful project.

The Impact of Your Donations

Every contribution, large or small, will help us create this special space.

100% of your donation will go towards this the garden to support those that are serving and honour those that have served. With your help we can create a serene and respectful place for remembrance, ensuring this special site remains a fitting tribute for years to come.

Thank you for your generosity and support in preserving the legacy of our local heroes.