Cadent Gas, along with other Gas Distribution Networks such as Northern Gas Network, SGN, and formerly National Grid Gas Distribution Ltd, faced a critical challenge: how to educate young children about the dangers of Carbon Monoxide (CO) in a way that is engaging and memorable. Traditional methods had proven insufficient in making a lasting impact on this young audience and the wider community.

Target Audience: Why Children?

The primary reason for targeting children is that they can be powerful agents of change within their households and communities. Children are naturally curious and receptive to learning, making them ideal candidates for educational initiatives. Moreover, by educating children, the message of CO safety can be extended to their families, thereby increasing the overall reach and impact.

Why Bonanza Creative?

Bonanza Creative was chosen for this initiative due to their innovative approach to learning and community engagement. They specialise in interactive, creative learning sessions that make complex topics accessible and memorable for young audiences.

1. Interactive Sessions

• In-person creative learning sessions were conducted in schools using drama, art, film, and dance to teach children about CO safety in an entertaining and engaging manner. Safety Seymour, a cuddly caped crusader, became the face of CO safety education for children in KS1 (years 2-3), making the learning process relatable and enjoyable. For KS2 (years 5-6), the CO Crew featured characters Mimi and Loz, focusing on the science of Carbon Monoxide, its production, symptoms, and safety measures at home. Additionally, school assemblies were used to reach larger groups of children from years 1-6, ensuring the CO safety message was widely disseminated and had a greater impact.

2. Educational Resources

• Comprehensive Educational Packages: These packages included activity sheets, interactive content designed to reinforce the learning objectives and a dedicated webpage with resources for teachers, parents, and children, ensuring the information is accessible outside the classroom.

3. Community Engagement

• Programs for Families and the Community: Designed to extend the reach of the initiative beyond schools, these programs included distributing free carbon monoxide alarms and conducting awareness campaigns.

Wide Reach: Educated over 200,000 children and on track to engage with 400,000 by 2026

Outstanding Feedback: High satisfaction from schools and parents, with outstanding reviews from over 800 primary schools, averaging 4.5+ stars.

Real-Life Impact: Children have loved and remembered the key messages and we have testimonials from teachers describing how the sessions have saved lives.