For many years, I have proudly served the Swinton community as its dedicated school crossing patrol officer, also affectionately known as the 'lollipop lady'. It's a role I've cherished, ensuring the safety of children and their families as they navigate busy streets on the way to and from school. However, this service is now under threat of being replaced by pedestrian crossings, a change that I strongly believe will not offer the same level of safety and care.

School crossing patrols do more than just stop traffic — we provide a personal touch that can't be replaced by automated crossings. We are a reassuring presence, a familiar face who not only guides children safely across roads but also fosters a sense of community and trust. Automated crossings lack the ability to adapt to unpredictable situations, react to emergencies, or offer the peace of mind a human presence provides.

Research shows that school crossing officers significantly reduce the number of accidents involving children near schools. According to the UK Department for Transport, areas with active crossing patrols have seen up to a 20% decrease in pedestrian-related accidents. Our presence is vital, not only for safety but also for reinforcing road safety education among children.

The decision to remove crossing patrols likely stems from budgetary considerations, but this is a short-sighted approach. The safety and wellbeing of our children shouldn't have a price tag. Moreover, implementing new pedestrian crossings involves significant costs for installation, maintenance, and potential traffic congestion impacts.

I urge the local council to reconsider this decision. Maintaining school crossing patrols is a cost-effective, human-centered approach that ensures safety, builds community, and supports local employment. Let's prioritize the safety of our children and the wellbeing of our community.

Please sign this petition to show your support for keeping our school crossing patrols active in Swinton. Together, we can make a difference and ensure our children’s safety remains a priority.