Police have drawn up Certificates of Achievement for school pupils across County Durham and Darlington to thank them for playing their part in keeping people safe during lockdown.
Most children have been at home for nearly seven weeks as part of measures put in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect the most vulnerable people in our society.
To acknowledge their co-operation, Chief Constable Jo Farrell felt it was important to recognise not only their efforts, but equally the role the children of key workers have played in continuing to go into the classroom.
All children in primary and secondary schoolchildren are eligible for one of our specially-created colour certificates, which will be distributed by officers out on patrol or can be downloaded from our social media sites by parents or carers to present to their children.
A black and while version has also been created for youngsters who enjoy colouring and want to put their own creative stamp on it.
Chief Constable Farrell said: “A lot has changed for our children in the last few weeks and it can’t have been easy for them. I think it is important we recognise their hard work and co-operation.
“I understand many of them are bored, missing their friends and hobbies and desperate to swap home schooling for life back in the classroom, but despite this they continue to do us all proud.
“Many of our children will not truly comprehend what is going on right now but I want them to know how much we appreciate what they are doing and the important role they are playing in helping to tackle the pandemic.
“As many of our officers and staff are parents, it very much at the forefront of our minds that key worker children have still been attending school.
“They might think it is unfair, but I hope they realise the importance of the work their parents are doing as these people really are at the forefront of this battle.
“Unfortunately given the circumstances we can’t present them in person, but we hope parents, carers and teachers will ensure all children receive one.
“We are all doing our bit to keep everyone safe – please make sure your children know how much of a fantastic job they are doing and for that we say thank you.”
