Suffolk County Council has implemented a new policy requiring all school crossing patrol officers, commonly known as lollipop men and ladies, to wear body-worn cameras. This decision follows a series of abusive incidents targeting these officers while they perform their duties ensuring pedestrian safety.
Incidents Prompting the Change
The council reported multiple disturbing cases of abuse. In one incident in Ipswich, a teenage cyclist verbally abused an officer after being asked to dismount his bike. Another officer faced hurled insults from a vehicle driver after stopping traffic to allow children to cross safely. Additionally, a lollipop lady was verbally abused by a man who then spat on the footpath towards her.
Successful Trial and Legal Authority
A trial involving a small number of body cameras has already led to successful prosecutions of individuals who abused lollipop staff. These officers not only assist children but also possess the legal authority to stop traffic for any pedestrian. Motorists who fail to comply with their signals risk a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points on their licence, with more serious cases potentially resulting in a driving ban.
Awareness Campaign Launch
Alongside the camera rollout, Suffolk Council has initiated a six-week awareness campaign titled "Lollipops Aren't Just For Children." This campaign includes advertisements on the backs of buses, radio spots on Heart Suffolk, and social media content. Councillor Chris Chambers, cabinet member for transport strategy, emphasised that while most drivers follow rules, some continue to ignore stop signals and abuse officers and others at crossing points.
Councillor Chambers stated: "This sort of behaviour is completely unacceptable. By launching this awareness campaign to remind people of their responsibilities, together we can help make Suffolk's roads safer for everyone."
Previous Implementations and Councillor Comments
Body-worn cameras have been previously issued to school crossing patrols in areas such as Greater Manchester, Clacton, and Basildon for similar reasons. Keith Welham, a Suffolk county councillor, expressed dismay at the necessity of this measure, noting that the abuse stems largely from impatience and bad manners.
Councillor Welham added: "It's terrible that it has come to this. Some of the abuse these officers have received is horrific. I can't understand why someone would treat their friendly crossing patrol officer like this. It is a real shame, but we need to keep officers safe."
The policy now covers all 55 school crossing patrols in Suffolk, aiming to enhance officer safety and deter future abusive behaviour through increased accountability and prosecution support.
