Details have emerged about how two children were found crying in distress outside a house in Maidstone, before they were rescued by two off-duty police staff members.

In October 2025, Kent Police employees, Tanya Alderman and Demi Parkhill-Flemming, heard them screaming and rushed to help.

When they got to the property they found the youngsters, who were aged three and seven, outside. The older child told the pair that their dad was inside the house and was deliberately hurting their mum.

Tanya, who works in the Force Control Room, and Demi, who previously worked in the Public Protection Command, calmed the children and moved them to a nearby neighbour’s house to ensure they were safe.

Shortly after, the suspect appeared and tried to take the children, however the brave pair stood firm and refused him entry to the house. He then fled the scene.

Tanya immediately called 999 and provided all the required details. She then entered the children’s home where she found their mum inside. The woman was unconscious and bleeding heavily due to severe head and facial injuries. She put the woman into the recovery position and administered vital first aid, while Demi continued to care for the children until uniformed officers and paramedics arrived.

The suspect was later arrested and charged in connection with the incident. Criminal proceedings are ongoing.

Awards ceremony

Both police staff employees were recognised for their courage and bravery during the Chief Constable’s Awards ceremony which was held at the Kent Police College on Tuesday 20 January 2026. They were each awarded a Chief Constable's Commendation.

During the evening, Chief Constable Tim Smith, also honoured officers and staff with long service awards and certificates of merit. Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott, was also in attendance.

Chief Constable Smith said: ‘Everyday officers and staff work to protect the public and bring offenders to justice, and it is a tremendous honour to be able to commend those who have gone above and beyond expectations. Tanya and Demi’s response showed real courage and their actions ensured a vulnerable woman in need of urgent medical treatment was safeguarded and got the help she needed. ‘I’m also very proud to have been able to present long service awards to those officers and staff who have dedicated years of loyal service to the force, alongside certificates of merit to officers and staff who have shown a real commitment to providing a first-class service to victims and witnesses in Kent. ‘The public should feel reassured in the knowledge that they have such a dedicated and professional team working day and night to protect and serve them.’