Respect the Stop: Why "Lollipops Aren’t Just For Children"
It is a sight that we all see and take for granted: a school crossing patrol officer stepping calmly into the road, holding up that familiar round sign, and children crossing a busy road in safety. Most motorists happily play their part, but unfortunately, not all do.
This is why Suffolk County Council’s new campaign, "Lollipops Aren’t Just For Children," is so vital. As the Cabinet member for transport strategy, I have seen reports of incidents across our county that are as disappointing as they are alarming.
The Reality on Our Streets
In recent months, we have seen unacceptable behavior directed at our officers:
In Ipswich, an officer was verbally abused by a teenage cyclist on two consecutive afternoons just for asking them to dismount for safety.
In Lowestoft, a man shouted abuse and spat on the footpath toward a patrol officer.
In Felixstowe, a couple in a car subjected an officer to abuse simply for doing their job.
No one should have to face this kind of behavior while working to keep our community safe.
It is the Law, Not a Suggestion
I want to be very clear: when a patrol officer steps into the road and raises that sign, it is the law to stop. Under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, motorists who fail to stop can face a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points. In more serious cases, a driving ban is a real possibility. Our officers—more than 55 of them across Suffolk—are there in all weathers to protect everyone, from parents and grandparents to any pedestrian who needs to cross safely.
A Vision for a More Active Suffolk
This campaign is about more than just enforcement; it is about respect, patience, and choice. We are investing heavily in making Suffolk a place where it is easier and safer to walk, wheel, and cycle through schemes like:
Active Travel Woodbridge and improvements to Princes Street in Ipswich.
Social prescribing pilots in Ipswich and Lowestoft.
New "Quietways" connecting communities like Barnby to Carlton Colville.
Choosing to leave the car at home for shorter trips is better for our physical health, our mental wellbeing, and our environment. But those options only work if people feel safe.
My Message to You
As spring arrives, there is no better time to step outside and rediscover your local area at a human pace. When you see a crossing officer, please slow down, stop, and show respect. You aren't just obeying the law—you are helping to build the safer, more active Suffolk we all want to see.