More than 1,000 Hartlepool schoolchildren have taken part in this year's Crucial Crew event as the long-running safety initiative celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Organised by Hartlepool Borough Council, Crucial Crew recently took place over two weeks at Hartlepool Power Station, operated by EDF Energy, and brought together a range of organisations dedicated to helping young people stay safe and make informed decisions.
A total of 1,150 pupils from 28 schools, most from Year 6 and some from Year 5, attended a series of interactive workshops designed to equip them with vital life skills and safety awareness.
The sessions covered a range of topics, including road safety, cyber crime, drugs and alcohol awareness, water safety and first aid, with the aim of giving children practical advice and knowledge they can use in everyday situations.
The programme was supported by a number of partner agencies and organisations, including Cleveland Police, St John Ambulance and Cleveland Fire Brigade, whose experts delivered engaging, real-life safety messages to pupils.
Pupils from Eskdale Academy and Jesmond Gardens Primary School with (l-r) Keeley Potter, EDF's Visitor Centre Co-ordinator; Councillor Jim Lindridge, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Children’s Services Committee and EDF HR Manager Duncan Bain.
Councillor Jim Lindridge, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council's Children’s Services Committee, said: "For 30 years, Crucial Crew has played an important role in helping young people understand risks, stay safe and make positive choices.
"The continued success of the programme is a testament to the strength of partnership working in Hartlepool. By bringing together specialist organisations and emergency services, we can provide engaging and memorable learning experiences that could make a real difference to young people's lives.
"We are also incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of EDF Energy. Their commitment to hosting Crucial Crew at Hartlepool Power Station year after year is absolutely invaluable.”