**Drivers Over 65 Encouraged to Participate in Special Training Courses to Retain Licences**
Older drivers across several regions of the UK are being invited to attend a newly launched series of safety workshops designed specifically for motorists aged 65 and above. The initiative, which is underway throughout the summer and runs until September, aims to improve road awareness and bolster confidence among senior drivers, as traffic conditions grow ever more complex.
Road safety remains a national concern, and local authorities in areas such as West Mercia and Northamptonshire have taken proactive steps in response. The courses, available free of charge, form part of a broader strategy to reduce the number of collisions involving older individuals, helping them continue driving safely for longer.
A key highlight of these educational sessions is the integration of virtual reality (VR) technology. Participants will don headsets to immerse themselves in filmed scenarios, offering a simulated driver’s-eye view of real traffic situations. By engaging with these interactive experiences while remaining seated, attendees can confront challenging road scenarios in a safe, controlled environment.
Following the screenings, attendees are given an open forum to express any concerns and pose questions to trained facilitators. Organisers emphasise that the workshops are informal and confidential, creating a supportive space free from the pressure of formal assessment. This approach is intended to encourage open dialogue regarding the impact of ageing on driving ability.
The scheme does not solely benefit elderly motorists themselves but is also open to family members who might be worried about the safety of their loved ones. By including relatives in discussions, the organisers hope to foster mutual understanding and provide reassurance to families concerned about older members maintaining their independence behind the wheel.
This campaign is a central component of West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s broader Safer Communities Plan. Mr Campion highlighted the urgency of the scheme, stating: “Too many people are being killed or seriously injured on our roads. Central to my Safer Communities Plan is working collaboratively to improve road safety for everyone.” He added that embracing new technology within these workshops not only educates, but empowers older residents to navigate the roads with greater confidence.
Northamptonshire Police have also thrown their support behind the initiative, recently announcing their own senior driver workshop to take place in September. A spokesperson for the Northamptonshire Safer Roads Alliance outlined their commitment: “Driving is an integral part of daily life, especially for older motorists. Over time, our driving capabilities can shift for a range of reasons. It’s critical we are aware of any changes and seek support to adapt, ensuring both personal and public safety.”
With the UK’s population ageing, measures such as these are increasingly necessary to promote road safety and foster a sense of inclusion among older people. Rather than limiting mobility or independence, the training aims to provide practical advice and refreshed skills, equipping senior drivers to meet the demands of modern motoring.
The courses are expected to remain available throughout the summer, with organisers hopeful that a significant number of eligible motorists will come forward to take part. Those interested are encouraged to contact their local authority or police service for details on session availability.
Through this partnership between local government, police and the community, the hope is to see fewer accidents and greater confidence among older drivers—a result that will benefit everyone who shares the roads.