'Dangerous' drivers putting schoolchildren at risk

So-called "parking buddies" are being placed at the schools' entrances to alert drivers

Safety measures are to be introduced outside a number of primary schools after warnings "inconsiderate" and "dangerous" driving is putting children at risk.

The steps, reminding people to park safely, will be put in place at eight schools in the west of Sunderland.

They include new signs, banners and the use of what the city council described as "creative approaches", such as planter barriers and awareness campaigns led by pupils.

Councillor Joanne Laverick, chair of the authority's West Area committee which is providing £13,400 funding, said: "Every parent wants to know their child is safe getting to and from school."

The schools involved are Richard Avenue, Barnes Juniors, Farringdon Primary Academy, East Herrington Primary Academy, Hastings Hill Academy, New Silksworth Academy, St Cuthbert's and Highfield Academy.

Many will use brightly coloured "parking buddies", which are child-shaped signs with safety messages, positioned around entrances to grab drivers' attention.

Laverick added: "Unfortunately, we continue to see poor parking behaviours that put children at risk and frustrate residents.

"This funding is about supporting schools to tackle that problem directly, through clear messaging and practical deterrents.

"We've worked closely with headteachers, site staff and community groups to make sure these measures are visible, effective and tailored to each school's unique situation."

Councillor Joanne Laverick (left) helped launch the scheme with pupils from Richard Avenue Primary School and its headteacher, Claire McKinney

The schools will manage the new measures in collaboration with council teams and local volunteers.

Parents are being encouraged to use designated drop-off zones where available.

Claire McKinney, headteacher at Richard Avenue Primary School, said she implored drivers to "make safe, sensible parking decisions".

She added: "Whilst funding for the parking buddies, planters and signage has been very much appreciated, we continue to struggle during busy drop-off and pick up times with inconsiderate, dangerous and unlawful driver behaviour."