West Sussex County Council is introducing body worn cameras for school crossing patrol officers at selected sites across the county to help keep children, pedestrians and crossing patrol staff safe. 

The cameras are being introduced in response to reports of dangerous driving, drivers failing to stop at crossings, and incidents of verbal abuse towards school crossing patrol officers.  

Earlier this year, a successful four-week trial was carried out at a number of schools across West Sussex, with positive feedback from participating officers. The benefits of using the technology were clearly demonstrated with incidents reduced by 50% when body worn cameras were in use. 

Councillor Erika Woodhurst-Trueman (pictured), Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said:  

“Our school crossing patrol officers do a fantastic job helping people cross the road safely every day. Everyone has the right to feel safe while carrying out their work, and these cameras will help protect our crossing patrol staff while also encouraging safer behaviour from drivers.” 

“By making crossing points safer and supporting the people who operate them, we’re also helping more families feel confident about walking to school. Encouraging active travel is an important part of improving health, reducing congestion and creating safer, more pleasant communities for everyone.” 

The cameras are being introduced at locations identified through incident data, ensuring they are used where they can have the greatest impact. Sites will be reviewed each year and may change based on local need. 

The body worn cameras will be used as a preventative measure to help reduce antisocial behaviour and improve safety around school crossing sites. Where necessary, footage may also be used to support police investigations into incidents that occur while officers are carrying out their duties. 

(Picture: West Sussex County Council)