Over 60s offered free road safety course

3 hours ago

Andrew DawkinsWest Midlands

News image — Dudley Council said it knew driving was "a lifeline for many older people"

Getty Images An older woman driving a car. She has blonde hair and is wearing a yellow top. The camera is outside the vehicle and her window is partially down. — Dudley Council said it knew driving was "a lifeline for many older people"

Drivers aged 60 and over from the Black Country can take part in a free road safety course next month.

Dudley Council said it was "committed to helping people retain their independent mobility whilst remaining safe on the road".

Drivers from any of the Black Country boroughs can book onto the course, involving National Highways, West Midlands Police and councils, with the first being held in Wolverhampton in September.

Sessions have been offered with the aim "to raise awareness of gradual reduction in eyesight, decision making and reaction time, to enable drivers to recognise them and take action to address any potential problems".

Course administrators Dudley Council said it would talk about eyesight requirements and the importance of getting regular eye checks.

It added that police would speak about blue light awareness and how to renew a driving licence, with National Highways looking at "smart motorways and what to do in an emergency".

'Advice and guidance'

Simon Phipps, council cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: "We know that driving is a lifeline for many older people and we want to help them to maintain this independence and mobility while remaining safe on the road.

"The course provides information, advice and guidance to help those who want to drive safer for longer, with the opportunity to ask [questions] at the end."

The first session will be on Wednesday at The Wheelhouse at Wolverhampton Cricket Club on Danescourt Road, with another on 21 September at Sandwell Council House in Oldbury..

Dudley Council said it was working with neighbouring Black Country authorities over the "informal" course, which is run annually.

The council's road safety team added that the best way to book a place is to call (01384) 815433 or email road.safety@dudley.gov.uk

Meanwhile, emergency services in Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire have been running courses to help older drivers ensure they know how to stay safe.

West Mercia Police, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner offered 20 sessions between June and August.