The safety of our children in Ghyllgrove Primary School in Basildon is seriously threatened. Children have reportedly had their photos and videos captured from outside the school gates. There is a disturbing regular presence of a male with a large lump of wood, displaying threatening behaviour and instilling fear into our children. This individual has pursued some students after school and has been observed frequently circling the school premises at each pick and drop off period.

This distressing situation has created a fearful environment for our children to learn and develop. Our school, despite their utmost efforts and concern, is legally constrained and cannot intervene to alter the situation effectively. The time has come for us, the parents, to advocate for the safety of our children, to assure they receive their education in a safe and secure environment.

We call upon Basildon's local council to ramp up police presence around our beloved Ghyllgrove Primary School. In the UK, local authorities are tasked with ensuring safety within school premises or areas immediately surrounding them. It's crucial to address this matter urgently, considering that 14% of all crimes committed within 500 metres of school premises are violent crimes according to a report by the Violence and Society Research Group at Cardiff University.

We  implore our local council to recognise the distressing predicament facing our Ghyllgrove Primary School community and to respond swiftly. In such delicate matters that involve the safety of our young ones, it is vital that action is taken promptly and decisively.

Sign this petition now and join us in our fight for our children's safety.