Leeds has set an ambitious goal to become a truly Child Friendly City, ensuring it is the best place for children and young people to grow up while also working towards eliminating death and serious injury on its roads by 2040 through the adoption of Vision Zero. This presentation explores how the Leeds Vision Zero Team and Child Friendly Leeds work in partnership to deliver these shared ambitions.

 As the first UK city to adopt the Child Friendly City ethos, Leeds places the voices of children and young people at the centre of decision-making, aligning with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The city’s sustained commitment to collaborative, child-centred practice has been recognised through repeated ‘outstanding’ Ofsted ratings and national commendation for effective partnership working. 

Vision Zero contributes directly to Child Friendly Leeds’ Wish 6—enabling children and young people to travel safely and easily—by delivering road safety education, engagement activities, and awareness campaigns. Through innovative approaches, including practical and classroom-based learning and the use of the road safety mascot Arlo the Owl, Vision Zero helps empower children and young people while reinforcing a culture of safety and inclusion. This partnership demonstrates how integrated strategies can create safer, more inclusive urban environments where children’s wellbeing and voices are prioritised.

Rosie Revell, Safe and Sustainable Team Leader Leeds Vision Zero

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