The Driving Instructors Association has launched a new online Safeguarding Hub bringing together practical guidance, free resources, professional development and support for Driver and Rider Trainers.
The new resource has been developed to help trainers understand their safeguarding responsibilities, recognise possible concerns and maintain safe and appropriate professional boundaries.
Its launch comes as safeguarding takes on greater prominence within the driver training profession. DVSA’s updated ADI code of practice is set to become mandatory and includes clearer expectations around safeguarding, professional boundaries and creating a safe learning environment.
The revised code also strengthens expectations relating to communication, physical contact, confidentiality, social media and relationships with pupils. DVSA will confirm when the mandatory code will come into effect, but its publication gives instructors an opportunity to review their knowledge and working practices in advance.
DIA has been at the forefront of safeguarding education within the profession for nearly a decade. It was the first national association and training body in the sector to establish a recognised safeguarding training route designed specifically for Driver and Rider Trainers and has consistently called for safeguarding to form part of PDI training and ongoing professional development.
Safeguarding situations do not always present themselves clearly. A concern might arise through something a pupil says, a change in their behaviour or circumstances, or contact outside lessons that begins to blur the boundaries of the professional relationship.
The Hub explores these situations in the context of everyday driver and rider training, helping trainers understand their role and recognise when they may need to record a concern, seek advice or follow an appropriate safeguarding route.
Free safeguarding resources
At the centre of the Hub is DIA’s free introductory guide to safeguarding and professional conduct in driver and rider training.
Available to all trainers, the guide introduces:
- What safeguarding means in driver and rider training
- Possible concerns and warning signs
- Professional boundaries and the limits of a trainer’s role
- When and where to seek further support
The free resources section also includes a safeguarding webinar, articles covering learner and trainer safety and links to practical guidance through the Safeguarding Knowledge Hub.
The Knowledge Hub provides answers to common questions about disclosures, reporting concerns, professional boundaries and appropriate professional practice.
Complete guide for DIA members
DIA members can access an extended version of the guide offering more comprehensive guidance on safeguarding and professional conduct.
The Complete Guide to Safeguarding and Professional Conduct in Driver and Rider Training is included as part of DIA membership and can be accessed through the members’ area.
Members can also contact the DIA Helpdesk for individual support when dealing with a safeguarding concern, complaint, allegation or professional conduct issue.
The Helpdesk can provide professional advice and help instructors consider their position and possible next steps. However, this support should never delay urgent safeguarding action. If someone is in immediate danger, the emergency services should be contacted by calling 999.
Building a stronger safeguarding foundation
The Hub also brings together DIA’s safeguarding training and continuing professional development.
DIA recommends a nationally accredited Level 3 safeguarding qualification as the professional safeguarding foundation for Driver and Rider Trainers. This is a professional development recommendation rather than a universal legal requirement for everyone working within the sector.
The DIA Academy Safeguarding Online Workshop Level 3 is delivered through two live online workshops followed by an individual assessment. It covers recognising abuse, neglect and exploitation, responding appropriately to disclosures, recording and reporting concerns and understanding professional responsibilities and boundaries.
Trainers can then continue developing their knowledge through focused learning covering subjects including professional boundaries, gaslighting and emotional abuse, county lines and criminal exploitation.
Alongside its training and educational work, DIA supports instructors through safeguarding complaints, investigations, removals and professional conduct matters. It also contributes to wider discussions with DVSA and government about professional standards, policy and regulation.
Guides and online resources can provide important practical support, but DIA stresses that they are not a replacement for appropriate safeguarding training or action where someone may be at risk.
