The Safer Journey's to School ( SJS) Programme aims to develop
and deliver a range of measures to reduce fatalities and serious
injuries involving schoolchildren when they are boarding or
getting off buses.
Announcing progress on two key aspects of the programme today,
Infrastructure Minister Kimmins said: As families prepare
for a new school year, tens of thousands of children and young
people will once again travel to and from school by bus. Road
safety, and the safety of children and young people travelling to
and from school, is a key priority for me as Infrastructure
Minister.
Sadly, tragic incidents in recent years involving children and
young people at bus stops have highlighted the risks that can
arise when pupils get on or off buses. These are moments when
children and young people can be particularly vulnerable,
especially if they need to cross the road and where factors such
as traffic speed, visibility or road layout increase the risk of
harm.
Having considered the recent consultation findings, I have agreed
a preferred legislative approach and intend to bring this to the
Executive soon. Subject to Executive approval and the necessary
legislative processes, I hope to bring forward legislative
proposals to the Assembly this autumn to reduce the risk for
children and young people travelling to and from school."
The Department for Infrastructure has also today launched a new
road safety advertising campaign to raise awareness among
drivers, school children and young people of the importance of
staying safe around school buses to mark the start of the new
school year.
The two-part campaign reminds drivers to slow down, stay alert
and take extra care around buses, bus stops, and schoolchildren.
It also encourages children and young people to be aware of the
risks associated with boarding and leaving buses and when
crossing the road. The campaign can be viewed here: www.sharetheroadtozero.com/safer-journeys-to-school
Minister Kimmins continued: This campaign is about helping to
make journeys to and from school safer by reminding everyone of
the need to take extra care around buses, particularly when
children and young people are boarding, getting off, or crossing
the road.
I urge drivers, passengers, parents, carers and children and
young people to pay attention to the campaign messages. By
slowing down, staying alert and exercising greater caution around
buses and bus stops, we can all play our part in helping to keep
our children and young people safe."
