My child attends one of the schools affected by the recent decision by Croydon Council to remove the remaining lollipop school crossing patrols. Every day, I trust the crossing patrol to ensure the safety of my child and many others during school drop-off and pick-up hours. This decision leaves me worried for the future safety of our children.

Croydon Council plans to cut these crucial services by the end of the year, affecting six school sites across the borough. The decision, described as "penny-pinching" by local councillors, was unveiled following a Freedom of Information request by Inside Croydon. By removing these patrols, the council is prioritizing budget cuts over the safety of our children.

The role of lollipop men and women may be considered non-statutory, but their presence is undoubtedly essential. They serve as a vital safety measure, ensuring that our children can cross busy roads safely. According to the Department for Transport, road traffic accidents are a significant cause of injury among children on their way to and from school. Losing crossing patrols only increases this risk.

Many parents, like myself, rely on the presence of school crossing patrols. Without them, we're left with increased anxiety about basic daily activities like getting our children to school safely. Moreover, for some parents, especially those working or with younger children to care for, personally accompanying their children at all times is not feasible.

There are alternative ways to manage budget constraints without compromising on child safety. The council should explore different strategies, such as community fundraising, allocating funds from less critical areas, or seeking sponsorships to maintain these patrols.

Join me in urging Croydon Council to rethink this decision. Let's ensure the safety of every child in our community remains a top priority. Sign this petition to stop the removal of Croydon's school crossing patrols and protect our children's right to a safe journey to school.