One Southampton Primary School Drawing Competition

Award Ceremony held on Tuesday 2 August

Image: The Right Worshipful Mayor of Southampton, the Children's Mayor, Dr Debbie Chase (Director of Public Health) and the winners of the One Southampton Primary School Drawing Competition.

The ‘One Southampton’ campaign, funded by the COVID-19 Vaccinations Champions grant from central Government, was implemented across the city to highlight the importance of vaccination against COVID-19. With a network of over 100 organisations across the city, partners and champions working together to help inform residents about the continued importance of vaccination, together with when and where to access them.

As part of the council’s work to reach families with young children across the city, infant, junior and primary schools were invited to help distribute ‘Vaccination Information Packs’ to parents and caregivers. These packs contained information about vaccinations, doses available (first, second, booster etc.) and when to have them, as well as promoting safe behaviours such as using hand sanitiser and wearing face masks. Packs also included a face mask and sanitiser.

As part of this initiative, nearly 10,000 children were invited to enter a drawing competition where they were asked to share the things they did during lockdown, such as learning to ride a bike, cooking at home or reading books, all in the hopes of winning a prize. The prizes for each winner included a wonderful day out in the city, a Beanie Baby as well as a certificate.

The Right Worshipful Mayor of Southampton, Councillor Jacqui Rayment, said: ‘The impact of COVID-19 was felt by everyone, but particularly by children. Lockdowns and restrictions felt much longer, daily routines were disrupted and children missed time with their friends. This competition was a great opportunity for children to focus on the positive things they did during this difficult time. The Children’s Mayor and I had a wonderful day meeting the children and their families.’

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge effect on all of our lives. Vaccinations remain the best form of protection against the virus and will continue to offer us that added protection and peace of mind as we return to a more normal way of living. Find out more information on the vaccination programme and how to book or find a walk-in clinic.