Every morning, my children, along with many others, walk to Lainshaw Primary School in Stewarton. This daily routine is now overshadowed by fear since East Ayrshire Council removed the school crossing patrol officer from their critical post outside the school. The crossing is a busy location, posing significant risks to our children who are navigating heavy traffic without the guidance and safety assurance previously provided by the crossing patrol. The council have sited traffic calming measures as the reason a patrol officer is no longer needed. Unfortunately, as parents who use this crossing daily, we have first hand experience that the road layout itself is not sufficient to ensure our children’s safety. 

School crossings are not just places where children cross roads; they are vital safety measures that ensure our children can get to school unharmed. The absence of a school crossing patrol officer could lead to potentially dangerous situations, and it is only a matter of time before a regrettable incident occurs.

In 2019, statistics show that road traffic injuries were one of the leading causes of death among children aged 5-14 globally. In our local community, ensuring road safety for children is a fundamental responsibility. The removal of the crossing patrol officer contradicts this responsibility and puts our children at unnecessary risk.

We are calling upon East Ayrshire Council to take immediate action to reinstate the school crossing patrol officer outside Lainshaw Primary School. This simple step can make a monumental difference in safeguarding our children's journey to and from school. The presence of a crossing patrol officer not only aids in managing traffic but also instills a sense of security among parents and children alike.

Every signature on this petition is a voice asking for the safety of our children to be the priority for our local council. Reinstate the crossing patrol officer to ensure a safe passage for our young students. Sign this petition to demand immediate action from East Ayrshire Council.