De Montfort University, Leicester (DMU) is leading a national effort to improve hand hygiene among children, with over 100 primary schools across the UK pledging to take part in a handwashing Guinness World Records™ title attempt.
The “Germ Busting Washathon” set to take place on Global Handwashing Day on 15 October, aims to set an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest hand hygiene lesson (multiple venues).
Supported by schools spanning from Gateshead to the Isle of Wight, the attempt highlights the vital role of hand hygiene in the spread of diseases. On the day, children nationwide will simultaneously engage in coordinated handwashing activities via an online lesson to learn about its importance for public health.
The attempt is aligned with Global Handwashing Day - a global advocacy day dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding the importance of handwashing with soap. DMU's initiative is hoping to make a significant impact, demonstrating the power of collective action in promoting healthy habits among children.
The record-breaking attempt is led by DMU microbiology and education experts, Professor Katie Laird and Professor Sarah Younie, whose research at DMU led to the creation of an educational brand called Germ's Journey to educate young people in the importance of washing their hands.
To date Germs Journey has reached tens of thousands of children worldwide, through books, supplying teaching resources to schools and healthcare workers, alongside interactive online platforms, games and videos, all for children to learn about germs and hygiene.
Professor Katie Laird, Microbiologist at DMU, spoke of the growing participation, she said: “It’s fantastic to see so many schools coming together to support this cause.
“Teaching children, the importance of hand hygiene can have lasting benefits for their health and their communities.”
With over a 100 schools now on board, the attempt is set to bring together thousands of children for a shared purpose, reflecting DMU’s commitment to innovation and community engagement, aiming not only to set a world record but to inspire lasting health-conscious practices in schools across the country.
The Germ’s Journey team is being supported by Mattioli Woods, Medina Publishing, Rock Kitchen Harris, Elipse Health and Knowlex in order to encourage as many children as possible to get involved.
Any schools who agree to take part will receive FREE Germ’s Journey soap dispensers, with the first 300 schools receiving a free set of Germ’s Journey books and other educational resources.
To register interest, simply FILL THE FORM OUT HERE and the team will be in touch with more information leading up to the big day.
Posted on Friday 27 September 2024