Ebbw Fawr Primary’s Heddlu Bach (‘Little Police’) have helped to bring about road safety improvements at their school.
After speaking to us and the local police about their concerns around parking during school drop-off and pick-up times, we arranged for new bollards to discourage parking on the pavement. This will help visibility and create a safer route for pupils and families travelling to and from school.
Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, Cllr Sue Edmunds, and local police worked closely with the pupils on their aim.
Cllr Edmunds said: “"It was fantastic to meet with the Heddlu Bach pupils and hear their concerns. They spoke confidently about the issues affecting road safety around their school and wanted to make a positive difference in their community. The outcome shows just how important it is to listen to young people. Their observations have helped identify a practical solution that will improve safety for everyone using the area."
Heddlu Bach is a Gwent Police initiative for pupils aged 9 to 11, and provides a fun, interactive and educational volunteering opportunity that encourages young people to play an active role in improving their communities and promoting safety within their school environment.
PC Cerith Jones said:
"We are incredibly proud of the Heddlu Bach pupils at Ebbw Fawr Primary School, whose enthusiasm, determination and commitment to improving road safety have helped bring about these positive changes.
"The pupils identified concerns around parking and visibility at school drop-off and pick-up times and were able to clearly articulate the impact this was having on the safety of their fellow pupils, families and local residents. Their willingness to engage with partners and seek solutions demonstrates exactly what Heddlu Bach is designed to achieve – empowering young people to play an active role in making their communities safer.
"By working collaboratively with the school, the Council and local policing teams, we have been able to support the pupils in turning their concerns into meaningful action. The installation of the new bollards will improve visibility, discourage unsafe parking and create a safer environment for everyone travelling to and from the school.
"This is an excellent example of how effective partnership working and community engagement can deliver real, tangible results. When police, local authorities, schools and residents work together, we can identify issues, develop practical solutions and make a genuine difference to the safety and wellbeing of our communities.
"The Heddlu Bach pupils should be extremely proud of what they have achieved. Their contribution highlights the importance of listening to young people and recognising the valuable role they can play in shaping safer communities for all."