School crossing patrols (lollipop people)

The School Crossing Patrol Service was first introduced in the 1950s and was run by the Metropolitan Police Service until it was handed over to local authorities in April 2000. School Crossing Patrols are employed by the Council, primarily to help children cross the road safely on their way to and from school. Even where a School Crossing Patrol is provided, parents remain responsible for ensuring their children's safety.

Pedestrian advice

School Crossing Patrols (SCPs) can help anyone cross the road, so long as they are at a designated site and working within approved times. Pedestrians are asked to follow these simple rules when crossing with a patrol:

• Stand well back
• Wait
• Listen to the patrol’s instruction
• Cross in front of the patrol
• Never play or run near a patrol

Stop means stop!

Please give our SCPs consideration and assistance. They are there to help vulnerable pedestrians, in all weathers to use our roads safely. Please remember to:

• Park well away from them, so they can see clearly in both directions
• Reduce speed and be prepared to stop
• Obey instructions
• Completely stop your vehicle when asked to do so, do not roll forward
• Wait until the Patrol has returned to pavement before moving off

It is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1984 if you do not stop when signalled to do so by a School Crossing Patrol. We take the health and safety of our patrols very seriously. If you do not stop you will be reported to the Police. Possible penalties include:

• Fine of up to £1000
• Three penalty points
• Disqualification