Dear Parents/Carers, 

The reason I am writing to you is because you may be aware of the recent fatal stabbing of a young father in Smethwick.  Unfortunately, the attack was recorded and the clip has been shared widely on various forms of social media. We are extremely thankful that no Holyhead students were involved but some of our students may have received this clip and may have even viewed it online.  This is a very disturbing video, and I urge you to be vigilant in relation to your child's online activity.  If you know that your child has been affected by this, please do not hesitate to get in touch with a Designated Safeguarding Lead via enquiry@holyheadschool.org.uk or with me, using ddenny@holyheadschool.org.uk directly. The Police have asked members of the public not to watch the video.  Having seen it ourselves, we echo this sentiment.  Sadly, this incident is accompanied by two other serious incidents in the locality and in the context of growing concerns about increases in the Handsworth crime rate during lockdown.  It appears that criminals are taking advantage of the current situation.  Please, please keep your children at home and comply with the Government instructions about staying at home.  We want everyone in the Holyhead community to remain safe. 

Following this, I have been in communication with civic leaders and members of the community who are expressing concerns about compliance with social distancing measures within the Handsworth area.  The local streets seem extremely busy. 

In summary, our advice is as follows;

• Follow the Government guidelines and stay inside unless it is absolutely necessary to go out - see www.gov.uk

• Be vigilant on how your child is accessing social media - www.gov.uk/www.nspcc.org.uk

• Talk to your child to see if they are concerned about anything, or report your concern to a member of staff

• Refer to the Holyhead Safeguarding page for other agency contact details

• Signpost your child to the student wellbeing page where there is various information on mental and emotional wellbeing

• Alternatively call Birmingham Children’s Services(0121 303 1888) or the Police (101) if you are concerned about a child’s safety. Thank you for your continued support,

Yours faithfully,

Mrs D Denny                                                                                Mr R Trafford