Project Edward

Students learn the devastating impact of road traffic collisions

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Eleri Thomas, joined officers from Gwent Police and South Wales Fire and Rescue at Crosskeys College to raise awareness of the annual national road safety campaign Project Edward.

 

The session gave students an honest insight into the impact that careless driving can have on everyone involved via hard hitting films and an emotive personal recollection from the family of a victim of a fatal road traffic collision.

It also focused on the ‘Fatal Five’ main causes of death and serious injury on the roads: careless driving, drink, and drug driving, not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone, and speeding.

 

Eleri Thomas said: “Young people who are newly qualified drivers, passengers or learners are especially vulnerable on the roads.

 

“Project Edward is a fantastic initiative, but I want all road users in Gwent to be safe 365 days a year.

 

“Personal stories have a huge impact on changing hearts and minds, I would like to thank Special Constable Rachael O’Connell of Gwent Police who spoke to the students about how she and her family had personally been affected by a driver using their mobile phone when driving. 

 

“Educating drivers is vital in keeping our roads and communities safe. I commend the work of Gwent Police and its partners who work tirelessly to raise awareness and save lives across Gwent.”

 

The session was one of a series of activities led by Gwent Police, South Wales Fire Rescue and GO Safe to mark Project Edward, Every Day Without A Road Death.