What is MiDAS Training?
MiDAS is an acronym for Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme. It is a training programme that aims to enhance the driving and passenger awareness skills of the many thousands of individuals who drive minibuses in the course of their work or, as volunteer drivers. The scheme is the outcome of a study of minibus driving and a lengthy period of consultation with voluntary and statutory groups which operate minibuses.
MiDAS is designed to make appropriate assessment, training and accreditation available to minibus drivers from voluntary organisations, schools, colleges and Local Authorities.
The Scheme is organized by the Community Transport Association under license to Hampshire County Council.
Objectives
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 and safety issues surrounding minibus driving
- Be trained in the safe use of wheelchair accessible minibuses where necessary
- Receive a certificate which is accepted by other MiDAS members
Potential Benefits of MiDAS
There are many potential benefits from MiDAS including:-
- Enhanced passenger safety
- Improved passenger comfort
- Increased driver confidence
- Reduced stress on minibus drivers
- Potential reduction in vehicle running costs
- Potential reduction in insurance premiums
- A better image for organisations
- A better image for minibuses
MiDAS Content Summary
- Training techniques for driving skills
- Identifying and rectifying driving faults
- Reversing and manoeuvring
- Defensive driving
- Legal requirements for Minibus drivers
- Passenger safety
- Child passenger safety
- Personal safety for drivers
- Breakdown, accident and emergency procedures
- Passenger awareness
- Passenger assistance
- Safe use of passenger lifts and ramps
- Wheelchair and passenger restraint equipment
- Legal requirements and good practice
Further Information
To find out more about MiDAS and MiDAS Refresher Training or, to book a training session, please contact: Theresa Coyne at theresa.coyne@btconnect.com or telephone Philip Headford on 01255 436962
