Council urges drivers to show respect for school crossing patrollers

Buckinghamshire Council is reminding motorists to respect the essential work carried out by the county's school crossing patrollers as they help children and families reach school safely each day.

Often known as lollipop men and women, Buckinghamshire's 60 patrollers are out in all weathers, morning and afternoon during term time, using their STOP signs to ensure safe passage across busy roads. While most drivers stop as required, a minority continue to display abusive or dangerous behaviour, putting both patrollers and pedestrians at risk.

Between the start of the 2021 school year and November 2024, there were 39 reported incidents involving drivers failing to stop or behaving inappropriately. These included four injury incidents, 29 near misses and several verbal abuse reports. Actual numbers are likely to be higher as many incidents go unreported. Since 1 December 2024 to 31 Jan 2026, there have been a further 8 reported incidents, all of which were near misses. 

When patrollers do report issues to the police, witness evidence is often needed, so the council is urging parents and carers to come forward should they see unsafe behaviour.

School crossing patrollers have a legal right to stop traffic for anyone needing help to cross the road. They hold the same authority as police officers when displaying their STOP sign. Failing to stop is an offence that could lead to a £1,000 fine, three penalty points or even disqualification. Patrollers are encouraged to report any driver who refuses to stop.

Examples of problematic behaviour include drivers using abusive language, failing to stop even when the patroller is already in the road, swerving around patrollers, blocking pavements and parking irresponsibly - particularly on 'School Keep Clear' markings and bus stops.

Thomas Broom, Buckinghamshire Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

"Our school crossing patrollers carry out an incredibly important role that keeps children and families safe every single day. They are highly valued by the communities they serve.

"While most drivers behave responsibly, a small number choose to ignore the law and put others at risk. This behaviour is completely unacceptable. We will always take a zero‑tolerance approach to any actions that threaten the safety or wellbeing of our patrollers.

"I'm asking all drivers to slow down, pay attention and show respect. Taking a few extra seconds could make all the difference in keeping everyone safe."

Drivers are reminded to:

• Slow down when you see a patrol warning sign or flashing lights and be prepared to stop.
• Stop when the patroller displays the STOP sign.
• Be patient and do not move forward until instructed.
• Avoid parking on zig‑zag lines, bus stops or anywhere that obstructs the patroller's view or movements.

Reporting incidents

To report any incidents involving School Crossing Patrollers, residents can contact:

Aylesbury Vale and Wycombe (West): Corinne Randall – 01296 383 432

Chiltern & South Bucks and Wycombe (East): Georgina Longley – 01494 586 639