Every family wants to live in a community that feels connected, welcoming and safe. A place where children can walk, ride and explore their neighbourhood as they grow into confident young people. Active travel supports this.

Why active travel matters

• children are healthier, more active and independent
• families enjoy more time together and less time in traffic queues
• communities feel safer and more connected when people are out walking and cycling
• streets become calmer, friendlier places as traffic speeds reduce.

What research tells us

• many parents believe car travel is faster or easier, even when walking or cycling is just as quick for short trips
• people tend to view their car as an extension of themselves, not simply a mode of transport
• strong community connections make people feel safer and be safer - crime drops and traffic speeds reduce when people interact more
• re-designing streets around people rather than cars helps make neighbourhoods healthier and more vibrant
• putting people first - creating pedestrian and bike friendly environments supports wellbeing, reduces emissions and helps children develop independence.

Children's behaviour on and near roads is shaped by many factors - their emotional and social development, how adults behave around them and the environment they move in.

• Children under 8-9 years old have difficulty processing the speed of vehicles, so they need safer crossings, slower traffic and adult support.
• Family habits - including adult driving behaviour - strongly influence children's choices and attitudes to safety
• Building students' social and emotional skills reduces risk-taking as they become young adults
• Road safety education programs work best when they build resilience, strengthen school-home-community connections, promote respectful relationships, integrate skills into everyday learning and move beyond information delivery toward real behaviour change.
• Consistent messages from schools, councils, police, community leaders and the media reinforce the idea that active travel is normal, supported and safe.