1 Aug 2024
Key points
- Perspective of cycling campaigners presented to NPCC Road Crime Reporting Working Group.
- Tim Wall, Pushbikes (Birmingham) and AVZ Roads Policing Campaigners, spoke about the importance of citizen engagement, the unique experience of cyclists and key calls from cycling campaigners as to how to improve the effectiveness of road crime reporting.
- There has already been much interest shown by cycling groups in working together and AVZ will coordinate working group dedicated to road crime reporting.
At the June meeting of the National Police Chief Council (NPCC) Road Crime Reporting Working Group, Tim Wall, from Pushbikes (Birmingham based cycling group) presented the perspectives from cycling campaigners across the country.
This was the first time a representative of a road user group had spoken at these meetings. And ensuring the view from cyclists was heard was key, as they
- account for so many of the submissions, and
- face unique challenges when reporting, e.g. most submissions come from witnesses whereas cyclists reporting close passes qualify as victims as these involve emotional harm.
Tim stressed the importance of citizen engagement and reminded the working group how the NPCC’s Roads Policing Strategy states
The public are our most influential partner. We know there is an appetite from the public to help police our roads, whether that is by submitting dashcam footage…
His presentation highlighted key calls from cyclists
- Proper resourcing and officer training, including on what/where cyclists can travel
- Reporting Portal improvements
- Fair and consistent decision-making
- Feedback, including how to improve submissions
- Action with proportionate and transparent action taken against offenders (too many submissions result in No Further Actions or warning letters)
- Wider awareness with the scheme publicised to deter unsafe driving
This initiative was coordinated by Action Vision Zero (AVZ). At our monthly roads policing campaigner zooms, road crime reporting has been a regular topic. But in recent months, it has dominated this meeting. And we have reached out to other cycling groups to contribute. Cycling UK, British Cycling, London Cycling Campaign have all been invited to collaborate and will be kept informed of our efforts.
Going forward, we will coordinate a separate working group with its own monthly meetings. This will help ensure the experiences of cycling campaigners are shared and their voices strengthened through collective action. Contact Amy@ActionVisionZero.org for more information.
actionvisionzero.org 