NHSGGC drivers are going back to the classroom and getting on their bikes, to give them a better understanding of people cycling and other vulnerable road users.
The Health Board is the first NHS organisation in the UK to put 25 of its drivers through their paces in this way.
NHSGGC is teaming up with Cycling Scotland to provide all its drivers with bespoke Practical Cycle Awareness Training. The one-day course, devised and delivered by Cycling Scotland, aims to raise awareness among fleet drivers of people cycling by asking them to get on their bikes to gain a greater understanding of how those on bikes, and other vulnerable road users, behave on the road.
Staff spend time in the classroom followed by a practical cycle training session to familiarise themselves with those travelling by bicycle, foot, motorcycle and scooter.
Paul Reid, Corporate Transport Manager at NHS Glasgow said: “NHSGGC is committed to delivering PCAT to all its drivers. The response has been really positive and I’d highly recommend the course to any organisation wanting their drivers to become more cycle aware.
“Our drivers’ cycling skills were assessed in our yard to build confidence and give essential cycling skills to cycle on-road. It was a real eye opener and did take a good few of us out of our comfort zone. The instructors were really knowledgeable, informative and patient with our group. Our drivers really enjoyed the training – especially the practical element.”
By learning basic on-road cycling skills, carrying out bicycle safety checks and negotiating road junctions and traffic, fleet drivers can gain a better appreciation of the safety considerations from various road users’ perspectives. Cycling Scotland developed the practical element of the training and has secured funding from Transport Scotland to deliver the PCAT initiative.
William Wright, Marketing and Events Officer at Cycling Scotland said: ““Over six thousand business drivers in the public and private sector in Scotland have already benefitted from Cycling Scotland’s free Practical Cycle Awareness Training. It helps people who drive large vehicles on our roads see things from a very different point of view and encourages them to give more space to people on bikes.”
Driver John Caldwell delivers food to Glasgow hospitals, including Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Stobhill and the Beatson. He said: It’s been years since I have been on a bike, so I found the training really helpful. We were shown some videos of collisions and it really makes you think as the last thing you ever want as a driver is to cause and accident. It was great to see things from the cyclists point of view and will make me think differently now.”
Practical Cycle Awareness Training will allow drivers of large vehicles to step into the shoes of more vulnerable road users, including those on bikes, and provide them with a greater understanding of their needs. Cycling Scotland is keen to hear from anyone who drives or manages large vehicles. Fully funded training opportunities available. Find out more at www.cycling.scot.