4 days Ago By Luke Chillingsworth
Older drivers above the age of 65 have been encouraged to take on “mature reviews” to boost safety. Warwickshire County Council is encouraging residents to consider the £85 tests which will be offered free. Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership is taking part in a national evaluation of mature driver reviews.
It means that councillors are looking for 50 drivers from Warwickshire above the age of 65 to take part in the programme. The checks aim to give older motorists a “trusted, impartial second opinion” on their ability to hold a driving licence and to help put minds at ease. Cllr Jan Matecki, Warwickshire County Council Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning said: “Supporting our mature drivers is vital for safer roads and for the independence and wellbeing of older residents in Warwickshire.
“These workshops and reviews offer invaluable guidance, reminding our community of the importance of regular eyesight tests and helping drivers refresh their knowledge of current road regulations. After an informal driving session, road users will be given feedback on their abilities as well as hints and reminders to become a better driver. The skills learned hope to give older road users a “confidence boost” while reassuring friends and family they are to be behind the wheel.
Cllr Jan added: “The mature driver reviews provide an honest, helpful second opinion that can build confidence, reassure families, and make a real difference in ensuring safe driving for longer. “We’re proud to be part of this initiative, and I encourage anyone eligible to take part, as together we can contribute to a safer road environment for everyone in Warwickshire and beyond.” Experts at the Older Drivers Forum are involved in looking into the future of mature driving tests in the UK.
At the moment, cities and organisations offer their own tests with each varying slightly from the other. However, specialists are now considering whether a "standardised" mature assessment could be offered across the whole country. Trials and evaluations will take place in Buckinghamshire, Cheshire West and Chester, Gloucestershire, Leeds, and Warwickshire.
Recommendations around how to roll out standardised mature assessments will be issued after the study is complete..
