A free conference will take place in Hoylake next month for older drivers who want to refresh their skills in order to keep them behind the wheel for longer.
According to Wirral Council, drivers aged over 65 have been involved in 1088 collisions in the last three years and 1 in 7 collisions in Merseyside now involves a 65+ driver.
The conference is part of the Merseyside-wide campaign, ‘Drive Safely for Longer’, which offers drivers aged over 65 a two-hour course delivered by approved driving instructors to help enhance practical driving skills.
Councillor Stuart Whittingham, Wirral Council Cabinet member for Transport and Infrastructure Services, said: “This awareness course is delivered by experienced, approved driving instructors in the driver’s own vehicle, providing advice and tips to enhance their driving skills along the way.
“It is a privilege to be able to support the setup of this scheme, which is the first project of its kind for this age group in Merseyside.
“Since the project launched, we have had requests for support and confidence building with specific manoeuvres or routes, such as driving through the Tunnel. In some instances, drivers are returning to the wheel after a period of illness or the main driver in the household has fallen ill and their partner has to pick up driving. We have both male and female driving instructors.”
Sergeant Paul Montford, from Merseyside Police’s Roads Policing Unit, added: “We understand the importance of driving to people as they get older and the independence it gives them. We want them to continue to drive and feel safe and confident as they do so.
“For those drivers who may have passed their driving test many years ago, the Drive Safely for Longer course is an opportunity to brush up on their driving skills and help them drive with confidence.”
The ‘Safely for Longer’ conference takes place at Hoylake Community Centre, Hoyle Road, on the morning of Friday 29th April 2016.
There will be a range of speakers and experts in the field of road safety where delegates will find out up to date information in addition to a market place where you can pick up free resources. It also provides an opportunity to meet other drivers during refreshments with lunch provided.
To book your free place contact Kathy Hall on 0151 606 2143 or email freecourses@no-excuses.org.uk.