On Tuesday 15th October, Catterick and Richmond Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) Katie Whitehead and Gayle Smith from the Neighbourhood Protection Team (NPT) visited Risedale School to talk to pupils about National Hate Crime Awareness Week (#NationalHCAW) #SayNoToHate.

During lunchtime, the PCSOs set up an information stand in the school canteen, inviting pupils and staff to learn about hate crimes and ask questions. The week-long campaign, running from 12th - 19th October, aims to raise awareness of and combat hate-motivated crimes.

Risedale's Headteacher, Mrs Greenwood, expressed her appreciation for the PCSOs' visit and their commitment to discussing this important issue with the pupils. She emphasised the significance of promoting understanding and tolerance within the community, adding, "We all have the right to feel safe. The PCSOs' visit was a valuable opportunity for our pupils to gain knowledge about hate crimes and learn how to report incidents. It also helped them to reflect on how they can contribute to a kinder society.  By engaging with our school community in this way, the police are actively working to create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone."