Kent Police Schools First Aid Crash Course at Dartford Shopping Centre
Kent Police’s youth wellbeing squad has launched a first aid training blitz for families visiting Dartford Shopping Centre. Their mission? To arm youngsters with life-saving skills during the school holidays.
100 Locals Get Emergency Ready
On Thursday 26 October 2023, Police Sergeant Glen Rickersey and PC Jodie Hobbs from the Child Centred Policing Team hosted about 100 parents and kids at the force’s engagement centre inside the retail complex.
Visitors learned how to put someone in the recovery position, tackle injuries, perform CPR, find defibrillators, and know exactly when to call 999.
Street-Smart Tips for Kids
The officers also drilled personal safety into youngsters, encouraging them to memorise home addresses and trusted phone numbers. They stressed the importance of staying aware of surroundings and clearly explaining locations to emergency services.
Specially Trained Officers Spread the Skills
“Thanks to recent funding, around 40 Kent Police officers now have specialist training to teach first aid,” said PC Jodie Hobbs. “While all officers have basic first aid skills, these enhanced qualifications let us confidently train others, especially young people.”
“Some children are young carers and may face medical emergencies at home. We want to equip them with the confidence and know-how to act.”
“We already run talks in schools about issues like knife crime. Now, we aim to add first aid and personal safety training to these sessions, bolstered by more officers ready to pass on these vital skills.”
