School children across Nottingham were able to quiz police officers as part of a fun programme of activities during the Easter break.
The “FREE fun and Food” sessions were designed to support children in receipt of free school meals through holiday periods.
Funded by the Government’s £200 million holiday activities and food programme, the sessions were hosted by Nottingham Forest Community Trust at schools across the city in partnership with a number of organisations, including Nottinghamshire Police.
Some of the sessions saw the force’s Schools and Early Intervention Officers (SEIO) engage with pupils by taking part in Q&A sessions and letting the youngsters try on police uniforms.
Questions included how fast does a police car go and were any of the officers on the Channel 5 programme Police Interceptors.
SEIO co-ordinator Karen Dalby explained the purpose of the events. She said: “During the sessions, the SEIOs provided advice and interventions which can make a real difference to young people.
“It’s also about breaking down barriers between the police and young people and improving relationships, giving an increased sense of safety for everyone.
“The idea behind the sessions is to give young people key information around particular issues that may be affecting them and then to have a positive discussion with a police officer to encourage making better life choices and divert them away from the criminal justice system.”
Declan Baker, head of community engagement at Nottingham Forest Community Trust, added: “It’s been great to have the police supporting our Free Fun and Food programme throughout the Easter Holidays.
“The team on hand have played a crucial role in helping to break down the barriers between young people and the police across the city.
“We are looking forward to having them as part of the programme for the summer programme!”
