WITH THE nights drawing in, a total of 15,000 reflective stickers are being given to schoolchildren across the country.
The drive is part of Howden insurance’s ‘Street Wise’ safety campaign and aims to boost visibility during darker months and protect young pedestrians on their journeys to and from school.
The move coincides with Road Safety Week 2025 which runs from November 16 to 22.
Every winter, the risk of road accidents increases. Tragically, young pedestrians are among the most vulnerable.
According to the 2024 reported road casualties in Great Britain, 409 pedestrians lost their lives in crashes last year.
More than 19,000 pedestrians were injured, with children aged 16 and under making up 11 per cent of all casualties. Most incidents happen during morning and evening commuting hours.
Visibility is key to safety. To help children stand out, local Howden branches across England, Scotland and Wales are giving away free owl reflector stickers.
These fun, stick-on companions are designed to make youngsters more visible to drivers, especially during the busy school run.
Among the branches taking part are those in Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Malvern, Evesham, Solihull, Shirley, Stratford-upon-Avon, Leamington Spa and Birmingham.
Matt Hillier, Howden’s Tooting centre manager, said: “We believe no child should be part of these statistics. That’s why more than 100 UK high street Howden branches will give away Street
“Wise hi-visibility owls – fun, reflective companions designed to stick onto bags, coats, or bikes.
“They’re bright, bold, and built to help kids stand out in low light.
“Whether it’s the school run, a trip to the park, or walking home from a friend’s house, being visible can make all the difference.
“Pop into branch to collect your sticker and help us light up the streets – one bright owl at a time.”
