A ROAD policing officer who has the unenviable task of letting families know they have lost a relative is sharing details of how challenging these efforts can be in hopes of improving road safety in the new year.

In 2024, 46 people lost their lives on the roads of South Yorkshire following a road traffic collision.

Figures from the Department for Transport reveal there were 509 road collisions in Barnsley alone in 2023 - an 18 per cent rise from 430 the year before - while nine people lost their lives.

From the moment a fatality is declared, a family liaison officer (FLO) is assigned to support the bereaved family.

PC Brett Small has been a police officer for seven years, and a roads policing officer FLO for three years, providing a crucial link between families and the police, supporting them with each step of the investigative and coroner processes.

To highlight the dangers of the #Fatal4 offences - the main attributing factors to fatal and serious road traffic collisions - Brett shared how passing the message to a family never leaves him.

He said: “No-one expects their loved one to die in a collision, and no-one expects as their loved one leaves the house that they’re not going to return.

“During my time as a police officer, I have sadly attended many fatalities, including over the festive period.

“As soon as you realise the severity of a collision, your thoughts immediately go to finding the person’s next of kin and notifying them.

“As you approach the family’s door, often seeing the Christmas lights and decorations, you know this time of year will never be the same for them again.

“As a FLO, you are assigned to the family and know you’ll be by their side for however long is necessary.

“While it is difficult, I take pride in knowing that during their most difficult time, I can ensure they stay updated and supported throughout.”