Dial A Ride runs a number of training courses for voluntary groups and organisations in North Wales.
Currently are able to provide the following courses:
- MiDAS Training
- Five Steps to Safety Training
MiDAS Training
For all MiDAS Training enquiries, please call us on 01745 356 906 or email training@dialaridedenbighshire.org
MiDAS is the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme organized by The Community Transport Association UK. (CTA) which promotes a nationally recognised standard for the assessment and training of minibus drivers. This scheme is designed to enhance minibus driving standards and promote the safer operation of minibuses.
MiDAS is applicable to any organization operating or using minibuses, ranging from small voluntary organizations operating one vehicle, to local authorities operating large fleets of minibuses as well as school, colleges and universities.
Although the scheme is not mandatory there are many advantages to successful completion of the training. Drivers will feel more confident in their ability to drive and valuable experience of driving a minibus is gained, increasing competence. Some employers may require drivers to have taken this training and some insurance companies may offer lower premiums based on drivers having completed the training.
The Objectives of MiDAS are that minibus drivers will;
• Be assessed to ensure their driving skills are of an acceptable standard
• Be given help where necessary to improve their minibus driving skills
• Be aware of the legal, practical & safety issues surrounding minibus driving
• Be trained in the safe use of accessible minibuses where necessary
• Receive a certificate which is accepted by other MiDAS members.
Potential benefits of MiDAS;
• Enhanced passenger safety
• Improved passenger comfort
• Increase driver confidence
• Enhancement of the operating organisations image
• Generally an overall better image for minibuses and their drivers.
MiDAS Training Course Content
Standard Certificate
This is module includes:
- Training in the skills required to drive a minibus. Delegates will learn:
Knowledge of the legal responsibilities of a minibus driver and duty of care - Department for Transport codes of practice in safe carriage of passengers
- Good practice in passenger comfort
- Health and Safety at work for Drivers
- Manoeuvring of vehicles
- Defensive Driving techniques
At the end of this session, candidates sit a written test paper, consisting of 20 questions, the answers to which will be contained in the training session, and in the minibus drivers’ handbook provided to each candidate.
Each candidate undertakes a 1½ hour on-the-road driving assessment. The assessment route takes in to consideration a wide range of road conditions. The Assessor provides feedback and advice to the candidate during the drive.
Accessible Certificate
This module is an add on to the standard certificate for those carrying wheelchair users, and so those needing knowledge and experience of using passenger lifts and securing wheelchairs etc. This includes:
- Group discussion after viewing a training related film
- Safe use of ramps and tail lifts
- Wheelchair and passenger restraint equipment
- Department for Transport codes of practice on safe carriage of passengers in wheelchairs
- Good practice on passenger assistance
- Information on disability, carrying children and professional etiquette
At the end of this session, candidates sit a further written exam paper, consisting of ten questions, of which eight must be answered correctly.
Refresher Course (both standard and accessible)
If you already hold a MiDAS Certificate and undertake refresher training before the certificate expires then you may opt to attend “Refresher Training” instead of the full MiDAS course. The Refresher training covers an abridged course content concentrating on the changes since obtaining your MiDAS certificate, and key components of the course program A refresher course for those with a MiDAS certificate expiring soon.
If you hold an Accessible Certificate (see above), then the refresher training will also cover key elements of the Accessible Certificate training. Those undertaking refresher training receive comprehensive course notes, a high visibility jacket.
The certificate issued on successfully completing the driving assessment is valid for four years. The refresher training is also available to reacquaint incidental minibus drivers with the complexities and skills of driving a minibus (even before the certificate is about to expire).
To verify the entitlement to undertake the refresher training it is essential that the current MiDAS certificate is brought to the refresher training course.
Dial A Ride Denbighshire Ltd. is one of the few organizations in North Wales with a qualified MIDAS instructor on its staff. We are able to offer a complete training and assessment program.
For current MiDAS price lists or for more information, please email training@dialaridedenbighshire.org