5/26/2010
SCHOOL crossing patrol officers in Lancashire can now carry on working after they reach the age of 75.
Lancashire County Council is dropping the upper age limit for these staff, who are best known as 'lollipop men and women'.
Previously they had to retire at 75 but under the new arrangements they can continue their work, ensuring pupils and parents can safely cross the road, provided the officers undergo an annual medical. Area supervisors will visit them at the start of each school term to discuss any issues or concerns.
Alan Fisher, principal road safety advisor at the county council, said: "We have a number of school crossing patrol officers who are now 75 and want to continue working. They are well regarded by the people they serve, and pupils, parents and schools are often sad to see them go when they reach retirement age.
"Our staff do an excellent job, serving their local communities, and we felt it was only right and proper to allow them to carry on as long as their health permits. We believe removing the upper age limit may also assist with staff recruitment and retention in the future."
A total of 357 school crossing patrol officers are employed by the county council, and a number of them are due to reach their 75th birthday over the next few years.
The change in policy for school crossing patrols mirrors other local authorities that no longer have an upper age limit for these posts.
Posted: 5/26/2010