Driving Mobility launches pilot scooter driving training scheme for mobility retailers
The Department for Transport is supporting a pilot scheme from Driving Mobility to train mobility product retailers in consistent safe driving guidance for scooter and powerchair end users.
The charity, which co-ordinates driving and mobility assessment centres across the UK, launched the Powered Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter (PWMS) Driving Safety Assessment training scheme to increase training to mobility retailers and distributors.
The pilot scheme is free of charge, and combines online training with a half day visit to a local Driving Mobility centre where a qualified clinician will teach the most appropriate way to advise on product provision and road safety.
Successful applicants and their respective companies will receive accreditation from Driving Mobility, supported by Department for Transport – demonstrating approved competencies in driver training and reiterating their ethical approach.
According to the charity, the scheme is being introduced as many mobility retailers had voiced interest in driver proficiency training for their scooter and powerchair customers.
This is coupled, it says, with outdated legislation regarding use of Class 2 and 3 mobility vehicles and grey areas with the law, resulting in a growing need for consistent guidance across the UK.
Edward Trewhella, CEO, Driving Mobility, comments: “Ideally anyone purchasing a mobility vehicle should receive training to ensure they are safe to drive.
“Unfortunately, this is not always the case. In response to this, we are establishing the feasibility of a nationwide certificated assessment and training scheme as part of the Government’s inclusive strategy.
“By receiving this employee training, mobility retailer staff will be more knowledgeable, confident and end users will benefit from a better, safer ownership experience.
“I encourage all mobility retailers to sign up for this free training to not only benefit from official accreditation, but to steer future safety legislation from the Government.
“This will not be a barrier to customer purchases, in fact, it will be the exact opposite as your enhanced support of customers will lead to more recommendations.”
Only one member of staff from a retailer needs to complete the course for the ability to train fellow employees in the future. Applicants will receive an official certificate of accreditation which can be displayed in retail showrooms.
A strict number of free places are currently available at QEF Mobility Services in Carshalton on 16th and 30th September 2021 and at the William Merritt Centre in Leeds on 13th and 14th September 2021.
To apply for training on the Driving Safety Assessment scheme, email Driving Mobility at pwms_training@drivingmobility.org.uk or visit the Driving Mobility website for more information.
The charity’s website, which was recently relaunched, provides comprehensive guidance on all aspects of adapted driving, accessible travel and personal mobility.
https://thiis.co.uk/driving-mobility-launches-pilot-scooter-driving-training-scheme-for-mobility-retailers/https://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/PWMStraining.jpghttps://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/PWMStraining-150x150.jpgGovernment & Local AuthoritiesNewsroomRetailer NewsSector NewsThird SectorTrade NewsDepartment for Transport,Driving Mobility,powerchair,Safety,scooter,trainingThe Department for Transport is supporting a pilot scheme from Driving Mobility to train mobility product retailers in consistent safe driving guidance for scooter and powerchair end users. The charity, which co-ordinates driving and mobility assessment centres across the UK, launched the Powered Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter (PWMS) Driving Safety...Liane McIvorLiane McIvorliane@thiis.co.ukEditorTHIIS Magazine