The campaign highlights the significant risks to children, with national statistics from the Department for Transport showing that in 2025, 41 children were killed and 2,432 were killed or seriously injured on roads in Great Britain. The council notes that similar dangers exist around schools within the Borough, with blocked roads, obstructed footpaths, poor visibility, and drivers in a hurry being common issues.
The initiative comes after several incidents where children have been hurt. A recent case involved a boy cycling home from Woodside Primary School in Goffs Oak who was forced into the road by a car parked on the pavement and subsequently hit by a motorbike. The Broxbourne School has also reported two pupils seriously injured in the past year due to inconsiderate parking.
The campaign features a series of videos featuring insights from Caroline Ginty, Head Teacher at Woodside Primary School; Professor Martin Griffiths, Trauma and Vascular Surgeon at Barts Health NHS Trust; and Sergeant Holly White of Hertfordshire Constabulary. These videos explain the real-world consequences of unsafe parking and driving. Schools will receive packs to share these videos with parents, and Councillor Jim Clune will offer to visit schools to speak directly with parents.
“"I’m the Leader of Broxbourne Council but I’m also a mother, so I understand the pressure you’re under to get your children to school on time. I want my children and all the children in Broxbourne to get to and from school safely. Please be considerate when parking around our schools. Together, let’s keep all our children safe."
“"I’ve seen first-hand the devastation caused when a child is run over and killed by a vehicle, to families and local communities. I implore you to drive and park safely around schools so we can ensure that there are no further serious accidents caused to any member of the community."
Drivers are advised to slow down near schools, exercise extra care when turning or reversing, and be vigilant for children crossing between parked cars. They are urged to avoid stopping on pavements, zig-zag markings, yellow lines, or near school junctions. Parents and carers are encouraged to park a few streets away and walk the remaining distance, and to plan journeys to avoid rushing.
The campaign videos are available to view at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEgriiy0bcDc.
