Kind-hearted policewoman Davina Joiner, based at Ashburton Police Station, gave up two weeks of her holiday this year to look after and care for orphans with special needs in Belarus. She joined more than 20 volunteers to help give the 120 orphans a holiday in a sanatorium, based four hours away from the capital Minsk, in an uncontaminated part of the Belarussian countryside. All the children live in an area affected by the Chernobyl disaster 20 years ago and have the holiday to help their health and give them the chance to interact with other children. PC Joiner raised around £900 in sponsorship, which paid for her travel costs, food and lodgings. Sponsorship money left was given to the orphans to help pay for their much needed break. Although the trip was extremely rewarding,, she was shocked by the amount of poverty she saw. 'People don't realise that these countries live in these poor conditions,' said PC Joiner. 'When we think of poverty countries like Africa come to mind, but this is a lot closer to home and these people need our help.' Despite the disaster occurring 20 years ago, residents are still living in the aftermath. 'One of the saddest thinks for me is that because of the poverty the Belarussian people are forced to grow their own vegetables and fruit in soil that is highly contaminated,' she said. 'They are therefore literally poisoning themselves and exposing themselves to radioactivity. This is extremely detrimental to their health.' In Belarus, there is much stigma attached to those with learning difficulties. Many end up in orphanages, with little education and stimulation. Therefore a holiday is vital to brighten up the lives of these orphans. 'This holiday is the only time these children get to leave the orphanages each year,' said PC Joiner. 'It really helps boost their immune system and gives them the chance to meet other children. It was great to see them smile. 'It was hard work but worth it to see them having a fun time'