Driver Improvement Scheme

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Lancashire County Council acts as the service provider on behalf of Lancashire Constabulary for the National Driver Improvement Scheme. Drivers are referred to the scheme as an alternative to prosecution by the Criminal Justice Service. It is offered to some drivers who are deemed to have been involved in 'driving without due care and attention' incidents. These incidents may include being involved in a crash or using a mobile phone while driving.

The Driver Improvement Scheme was initially set up as a result of the 'North Report' published in 1988. One of the recommendations made in the report was that:

"A pilot study of one day retraining in basic driving skills as a disposal option should be undertaken to determine whether such retraining produces a lasting improvement in the driving skill of the offender undertaking it."

Since that time the scheme has been successfully implemented by some 40 plus police forces in partnership with local authorities and the private sector.

The course is held over one and a half days and comprises of approximately four hours of theory and six hours of practical on-road tuition.

All the training is conducted by specially selected and trained Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs), some of whom have specialist skills with larger vehicles.

To successfully complete the course a client must:

• Attend all sessions
• Complete all course paperwork
• Make a positive contribution to the course
• Demonstrate a willingness to improve their driving, and
• Help to evaluate the course

A driver who successfully completes the course is referred back to the police and no further action is taken.

For more information telephone the Road Safety Group on 01772 534642 or visit the Association of National Driver Improvement Scheme Providers (ANDISP) website (external link).

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