Newly qualified drivers are invited to take part in a free road safety skills day.

Thirty-two newly qualified drivers are being offered the opportunity to take part in a free interactive road safety and driver skills day, thanks to a partnership between the Town & Parish Council Forum, Institute of Advanced Motorists, and Avon Fire & Rescue Service.

Designed for drivers aged 17 to 25, the programme aims to help young people build confidence behind the wheel, develop safer driving habits and gain a greater understanding of the risks faced by inexperienced drivers. 

The event will take place at a fully operational Avon Fire & Rescue Service station and will combine practical learning, workshops, expert guidance and real-life road safety education. 

Young drivers continue to be disproportionately represented in serious road traffic collisions. While local road casualty figures have generally reduced over recent years, the number of people killed or seriously injured on roads has remained a significant concern. Nationally, drivers aged 17 to 24 are involved in a high proportion of serious collisions, highlighting the importance of early intervention and education. 

The free skills day will focus on helping participants identify and manage common risks, including speed, distraction, seatbelt use, peer pressure, night-time driving, rural roads and decision-making under pressure. Attendees will also hear about the real-life consequences of road traffic collisions and the impact they can have on individuals, families and communities. 

Following the event, participants will have the opportunity to continue their learning through the IAM RoadSmart Advanced Driver Course. The programme includes guidance from qualified volunteer observers, instructional resources, structured feedback and an advanced driving test designed to help young drivers further develop their skills and awareness on the road. 

Mel Wilkinson, Road Safety Lead at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, said: 

“Road traffic collisions remain one of the most significant risks facing young people. Passing a driving test is an important milestone, but it’s only the beginning of a driver’s learning journey. 

“This initiative will give young drivers the opportunity to develop their skills, understand the consequences of risky behaviours and gain practical advice from experienced professionals. By working together with our partners, we hope to help make our roads safer for everyone.” 

Peter Davies, from Bristol Advanced Motorists, said: 

“We are delighted to be involved in a project that invests in young drivers at such an important stage of their driving lives. Through expert coaching and support, participants will gain skills that can increase their confidence and help keep them safe for years to come.” 

Cllr. Nicholas Quinlivan, Chair of the Town & Parish Council Forum, said: 

“This partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations come together around a shared goal. By supporting young drivers across our communities, we can help reduce risks on our roads and improve outcomes for young people and their families.  It is better to reward good driving habits rather than punish bad ones.” 

The initiative forms part of a wider commitment to improving road safety, reducing preventable harm and supporting safer communities across the region. 

Places are limited to 32 participants and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. To book onto the event, please click – Young Driver Skills+