Interactive learning sessions spread the word on road safety in Leicester

A series of workshops funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews are breaking down barriers and increasing take up of road safety education among women from minority communities.

The initiative, funded via the Commissioner’s Community Action Fund (CAF), has been developed by Leicester-based non-profit organisation Live Cancer Free, which is dedicated to saving lives by helping people to make healthier lifestyle choices.

The organisation developed a new programme designed to remove the hurdles that prevent some women engaging with road safety education such as language, literacy and confidence challenges.

Ten road safety sessions have been held at Wesley Hall Community Centre in Leicester covering a range of topics from road crossing safety, road signs and signage, speed awareness, passenger safety and understanding the Highway Code.

Practical simulations and real-life scenarios have enabled participants to apply learning to everyday situations and build confidence in their ability to stay safe on the roads.

Alongside the sessions, a multilingual road safety booklet has been developed to reinforce key messages and provide an accessible resource that participants can refer to after the programme.

The project was visited recently by Deputy PCC Neetu Squire where participants shared positive feedback about the project, with several explaining its role in building their confidence to apply for their driving theory test.

Praising the initiative, Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews said: “I’m impressed with the strong take up of this project and the glowing reports that have been shared by participants.

“The programme has been designed in such a way to benefit the wider community, with participants encouraged to share learning with family members and friends, achieving a greater impact.

“The project has also strengthened partnership working between community facilitators, qualified driving professionals and local community organisations and this really is the key to building safe and prosperous communities.

“There are many reasons why the theme of prevention underpins all the ambitions in my Police and Crime Plan.

By preventing fatal and serious injury incidents on our roads, we will spare families untold grief and devastation and ease pressure on our overworked public services. Education delivered in an engaging way can make the world of a difference and reduce risk, this is why it remains a significant area of investment for me.”

Road Safety is one of six core priorities in the PCC’s Police and Crime Plan.

The Commissioner has set out a series of commitments designed to improve safety for all road users.

This includes a pledge to work with the Chief Constable to crack down on the anti-social use of vehicles including e-scooters and illegal e-bikes and increase the number of safety initiatives on the roads.

He is also determined to support vulnerable groups through tailored prevention and education activities and improve access to safety information for communities less likely to engage with mainstream activities.

Picture Shows (L-R): Dr. Abeer Kholghi (Director of Live Cancer Free), Aymen Salah (Aymen Driving School) and Neetu Squire (Deputy PCC)

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