New figures prompt more action on walking to school

27th May 2016

A major national survey on school travel in Scotland* shows barriers which deter children from walking to school still need to be tackled, according to national walking charity Living Streets Scotland.

Living Streets Scotland Director, Stuart Hay said: "Overall, walking to school levels in Scotland remain relatively high (43%), but it's disappointing to see them slip back in this year’s survey. It’s clear that Scottish parents face many challenges in getting their children walking to school.

“Figures for park and stride** are more encouraging and show that, with help and education, parents are prepared to walk their children to school. Other options need be explored, such as closing school streets and breakfast and after school clubs, to give parents more flexibility. Most importantly walking to school needs to be seen as the natural choice, fun, and beneficial.

“Changing these figures will take time as our research*** shows the majority of parents (53%) have concerns about safety. But we want to see every child that can, walking to school. We therefore welcome Scottish Government research into tackling problems around the school run, as more children walking improves their health and reduces congestion."

Living Streets Scotland has just held Walk to School Week throughout the country, which directly involved 40,000 pupils.