Dumfries and Galloway’s emergency services and local authority have made a collective vow to reduce attacks of violence and verbal abuse on their staff.
The work is in line with Police Scotland’s national assault pledge #NotPartOfTheJob which sets out a commitment to reduce assaults on emergency workers and support officers and staff.
To raise awareness of the #NotPartOfTheJob initiative, Police Scotland is hosting a local competition for primary and secondary schools and all U18 youth groups in Dumfries and Galloway with the first prize being £1000 worth of sports equipment, clothing or general equipment.
If you’re interested, this is what we would like you to do.
We are looking for you to create a message that supports our campaign and makes it clear why it is important to not be violent and abusive towards front line staff and emergency workers.
This is our current message:
How was your day at work?
Today, we were insulted, threatened and assaulted. As first responders, our job is to rush to your aid, and keep you safe. We don’t expect to be abused, insulted, or threatened. That is not part of the job. The harm caused by this lasts long after our shift ends, and in a dangerous situation, it could put both our lives at risk. Aggression, threatening behaviour or verbal abuse towards us is an offence and may result in your arrest.
Be as creative as you want, you can use digital media or traditional artwork, you could even write a poem, it’s up to you.
As well as the first prize of £1000, there will also be prizes of £400 and £250 for first and second place in the education and non-education categories. Shortlisted entries will be presented to an audience and panel of judges at an awards ceremony on the evening of 8 December, 2022 at ‘The Bridge’, Glasgow Road, Dumfries.
How to take part
Schools can submit a number of different entries covering the whole school, different sports, drama and other educational groups associated with their school.
Youth Clubs and Groups can submit a number of different entries based on age (U10s, U12s, U14, U16s and U18s etc), ability and geographic location associated with their club/group.
All entries should be submitted by 25 November, 2022 via email to [email protected].
Shortlisted submissions will be invited to be a part of the awards night on 8 December, 2022 at ‘The Bridge’ where the winners will be announced and awarded.
For further information please email [email protected] and a member of police staff will be in touch to answer any questions you may have.
