Speed Kills – Let’s Slow Down to Save Lives
Essex Community Speed Watch Groups Join First National Day of Action to Improve Road Safety
Essex Police and the Safer Essex Roads Partnership are proud to announce that 20 Community Speed Watch (CSW) groups across the county took part in a National Day of Action on Friday 11 July, reinforcing their commitment to making our roads safer.
The initiative saw volunteers monitoring vehicle speeds in their local areas, aiming to positively influence driver behaviour and raise awareness of the dangers of speeding.
Community Speed Watch is a volunteer-led programme that empowers residents to take an active role in improving road safety in their neighbourhoods.
Volunteers receive full training from the Safer Essex Roads Partnership, including roadside instruction, and are equipped with speed monitoring devices. They are supported by a dedicated CSW Co-ordinator and Essex Police. While CSW volunteers do not have enforcement powers, they record speeding vehicles and pass the details to Essex Police, who follow up with appropriate action.
The presence of CSW groups not only encourages drivers to respect local speed limits but also contributes to a greater sense of safety and wellbeing within communities. Their efforts are widely appreciated by residents and local businesses alike.
Chief Superintendent Marc Clothier, NPCC operational lead, said; “We must all work together to improve the safety of our roads and Community Speed Watch is a great example of just how effective a partnership can be.
“Inappropriate speed kills and seriously injures thousand of people on our roads each year and we have to do everything we can to reduce those numbers.
“I’d like to thank all of our dedicated Community Speed Watch volunteers across the UK, your support is invaluable.”
Speeding is a major factor in many fatal and serious injury collisions. Essex Police and the Safer Essex Roads Partnership continue to invest significant time and resources into tackling this issue. As part of our shared vision, we remain committed to achieving zero road deaths in Essex by 2040 or sooner.
In support of the National Day of Action, eight CSW groups were visited at the roadside over the past month.
Samantha Wright, Road Crime and Safer Essex Roads Operational Co-Ordinator said: “Speed remains one of the leading causes of fatal and serious injury collisions on our roads. Every mile per hour over the limit increases the risk—not just to you, but to everyone around you.
“That’s why we’re working tirelessly at every level to tackle speeding. From strategic planning to on-the-ground enforcement, our goal is simple: to make our roads safer for all.
“I’d encourage every driver and rider to think. Slow down. Arrive alive.”
Janet Willey, Community Speed Watch Co-ordinator added: “Over 20 Essex CSW groups took part in the National Day of CSW Action, with some undertaking two monitoring sessions that day.
“Despite the blistering heat, the continuing dedication and passion of the groups in helping to keep their communities safer for all road users was paramount in their participation on the day.
“Thank you to all the CSW groups who took part and for your continued support in helping to achieve the aims of Vision Zero.”
Essex Police extend our sincere thanks to all our CSW volunteers for their dedication and hard work in helping to keep our communities and neighbourhoods safe. Their contribution is vital in our collective mission to reduce road harm.
If you’re interested in becoming a Community Speed Watch volunteer, visit: Community Speed Watch – saferessexroads.org