Manchester PCSOs hailed as ‘angels’ after shopping for elderly man with no food in his cupboards
They took him shopping for food on their lunch break, and delivered a television and washing machine after seeing he was struggling to care for himself
Two Greater Manchester PCSOs have been hailed as ‘angels’ after rushing to the aid of a vulnerable 68-year-old, following a concerned call from a relative.
PCSOs Colin Taylor and Paul Dawson went above and beyond for the elderly man in Rochdale, taking him shopping for food on their lunch break and delivering a television and washing machine.
The pair had been on a routine call checking on the man in the Firgrove area, but when they entered the property they quickly realised that he was struggling to look after himself and had no food in his fridge or cupboards.
Going beyond the call of duty, the duo decided to take matters into their own hands and drove the man to the shop themselves, helping him with his trolley and shopping inside – picking up essentials like bread, milk, and squash alongside a few treats.
Image: GMP Rochdale
They then delivered him safely home with his haul, before making sure that his details were passed on to agencies that can help him going forward.
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The PCSOs have been back to see the man to deliver a television and a washing machine that has been donated by a member of the public.
The man’s sister, who didn’t want to be named, described the pair as ‘angels’ and said she “can’t praise them enough.”
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“They knew he needed some help and didn’t hesitate,” she added.
“They still go back and see him every other day to check up and make sure he is okay.”
PCSO Dawson said: “We treated him as we would want our own families to be treated.
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“We heard that he didn’t feel up to going out but when we offered to take him, he lit up and it clearly touched him.
“For us this is our bread and butter and serving the community is the most rewarding part of the job.
“Our referrals to other agencies will now ensure he has everything he needs.”
Rochdale Neighbourhood Sergeant, PS Matthew Honey, said: “They really have gone above and beyond the call of duty but that is nothing less than I would expect from my team.
“Acts like this are not a one-off and we are committed to helping the most vulnerable people on our beats.”
Featured image: GMP Rochdale
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Emergency services rushed to the scene and Mr Carroll was taken to hospital.
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Georgina Pellant -
19th November 2021 
