Alan Kennedy, Chairman, Road Safety GB
This month we talk to Alan Kennedy of Road Safety GB - the organisation that supports road safety officers across the country.
How did you get involved with Road Safety GB?
I began my road safety career in 1987 following 14 years exploring for oil. I began as a part time motorcycle instructor, then examiner, and I became a full time road safety officer in 1988. I studied for the Accident and Safety Management Diploma and was promoted to manager in 1995. I came to Durham as road safety manager in 2000.


I've been heavily involved in regional working through the Local Authority Road Safety Offi cers Association (LARSOA) and chaired the regional group from 2001 to 2009, when I became national vice chair. I took the chair in 2009 on the day that LARSOA rebranded as Road Safety GB.


What are the biggest challenges facing young drivers who have just passed their test?
Young drivers really need to be aware of their vulnerability. It is very easy to be influenced by others, to go a little too fast, to take risks. It is also very easy to be involved in a collision through a very simple error, an error that can be easily avoided. Driving should be fun and enjoyable, and safe.


What do you make of the recent changes to the driving test with the introduction of independent driving?
I believe this is a very good move. It's relatively easy to be able to operate a vehicle through applied training, but to get the other skills needed to be safe, being able to perform independently and demonstrate those skills is vital.


Can driving instructors and other trainers get involved with your work?
Yes, instructors and trainers can get involved in road safety delivery through their local authority road safety officer. For example in Durham, we provide coaching skills courses for local driving instructors and offer work through the National Driver Training Reoffending Scheme (NDORS). Contact your local road safety officer, or see our website at roadsafetygb.org.uk to find out more.

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