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Report for the Environment Scrutiny Panel
Child Accident Prevention ( CAP Jersey ) have for many years supported the wearing of cycle helmets and would welcome legislation that required the compulsory wearing of cycle helmets for children up to the age of 16 years.
CAP has undertaken on a small scale the monitoring of cycle helmet usage. In 2013 it appeared that 86% of the children who were under 16 years were wearing cycle helmets whilst bicycling on the railway walk. This may imply that a large number of children already comply and the remaining children/ parents, will be swayed by the legislation.
In 2012 , 115 children / young people presented to the accident and emergency department with injuries sustained whilst bicycling. Bicycle helmets do help to prevent serious head injuries, including scalp wounds.
In 2013 CAP asked 309 students if they cycled on the road. 74% said yes. Only 5 % said that legislation requiring the compulsory wearing of helmets would deter them from cycling on the road.
To conclude, Cycle helmets have become more acceptable, especially for children and young people. Legislation would reinforce the belief that society advocates helmet use and it is a recognised way to keeping our children safe.