Five hundred seatbelt covers will soon be issued to neurodivergent individuals in Malvern Hills and Wychavon to bolster emergency response efficiency.

This initiative—the result of a collaboration between local district councils and the West Mercia Police Autism & Neurodiversity Network—forms part of 'Project Treasure'.

The covers will hold a contact card bearing critical data about the user, believed to provide vital assistance during road traffic incidents, particularly if their accompanying adult is unable to communicate.

They will be made available through special education providers, although residents may also request them via the Malvern or Wychavon district council websites.

Richard Cooper, temporary deputy chief constable of West Mercia Police, said: "Emergency responders are called to all sorts of different incidents. What is common to all of them is that people are involved who need our help. These seatbelt covers will assist us in considering the individual person we are helping, and I am grateful to everyone who has committed time to making them a reality."

Cllr Rob Adams, executive board member for Stronger Communities, Culture and Sport on Wychavon District Council, said: "We are proud to be a part of this important project which will support people affected by neurodivergent conditions. It’s great to fund such crucial work to better support our community at a time of need."

Cllr Natalie McVey, portfolio holder for Housing and Health at Malvern Hills District Council, said: "We are so pleased to be able to support this amazing project which will give that peace of mind to parents and carers. The covers will give emergency workers important information to enable them to provide the life-saving care that may be needed."