MIDAS Training

MiDAS, the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme, a programme which your organisation can join, has been developed to enhance the driving and passenger-awareness skill of individuals who drive minibuses in work or as volunteers.

What are the objectives of  MiDAS for drivers?

• 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 and assessed in the safe use of wheelchair accessible minibuses where necessary
• Receive a certificate that is accepted by other MiDAS members

– Our vehicles are all fully accessible, and we train prospective drivers how to use the tail lift and how to secure someone who is in a wheelchair with the correct specialist equipment.

– We advise that all of our community groups have their own driver trained, as this gives them greater flexibility when hiring vehicles at any time of the day or night, as only drivers that have successfully completed MiDAS Training are allowed to drive our vehicles.

What are the benefits of MiDAS?

• Enhanced passenger safety
• Improved passenger comfort
• Increased driver confidence
• Reduced stress on minibus drivers
• Potential reduction in vehicle running costs
• A better image for minibuses & for organisations
• Drivers receive a nationally recognised certificate
• Refresher training every 4 years (will include a multiple choice question paper)
  

Where can training take place?
– Usually the training is held at our premises on the Foundation Estate, Bristol but we can arrange for a group training session to be held at your organisation if that is preferred.

Drivers must be at least 21, have a full driving licence, with minibus driving entitlement and must have at least two years driving experience. 

To book or discuss any aspect of MiDAS courses please call us on 0117 9616016 or email our MiDAS training coordinator Michelle  at;

                                                                                                    Midas@kingswoodct.org.uk