OLDER drivers across Worcestershire are being encouraged to partake in free awareness sessions to help them better understand how age impacts driving ability.
West Mercia Police and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service are inviting mature drivers to attend summer sessions, specifically designed to help understand the changes which happen as we age and how they can affect driving.
The scheme is part of a focus, outlined in Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s West Mercia Safer Communities Plan, to educate drivers on the important role they play in reducing excessive harm caused on the road.
The sessions are being held primarily for drivers aged 65+ and are running across Bromsgrove, Redditch, Malvern, Worcester, Evesham, Wyre Forest, Hereford, Leominster, Ross-on-Wye and Peterchurch.
Two sessions will run on Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon and 1pm to 3pm. The first session is on Tuesday, June 3 (Redditch) followed by June 10 (Hereford), July 8 (Bromsgrove), July 22 (Leominster – AM session only), July 29 (Evesham), August 12 (Ross-on-Wye), August 19 (Wyre Forest), September 2 (Peterchurch), October 28 (Malvern) and also Thursday, October 30 (Worcester).
At the sessions, visitors will watch the Keep Driving Virtual Reality film produced collaboratively by local authority partners across the country and the national Older Driver Forum.
Using virtual reality technology, the film aims to visually highlight areas that become more challenging as we age, such as impaired vision and reduced physical mobility, and support drivers to manage the risks so they can keep driving safely for as long as possible.
Attendees will have the chance to watch two short films through a VR headset, while seated.
After watching each film, there will be the opportunity to ask any questions and discuss any concerns you may have.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “Too many people are being killed or seriously injured on our roads. Across West Mercia over the last five years (2020-2024), there were 34 fatalities and 259 serious injuries involving drivers aged 70+.
“At the heart of my West Mercia Safer Communities Plan is working with partners and the public to improve road safety.
“Education plays an important part in that and I fully support this collaboration which utilises the latest technology to equip people with the knowledge they need to stay safe on our roads.”
Sessions must be booked in advance. Email West Mercia Police Road Safety Team ([email protected]) to enquire. Provide the location and time of your preferred session.
Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis, and joining instructions will be provided when your place is confirmed. Attendees only need to visit a morning or afternoon session, not both.
