Yate Sodbury and District Community Transport

Volunteer Training

All YSDCT volunteers are offered training suitable for the role they are undertaking. We are currently reviewing the training offered and details are shown below of the modules currently available.

• South Gloucestershire Minibus Driver Training
• Tail Lift Operation & Wheelchair Clamping

South Gloucestershire Minibus Driver Training

(All YSDCT drivers must hold this qualification)

The Council’s Minibus Driver Training Scheme is a well established scheme for nonprofessional drivers offering training to a high standard in a supportive environment. It is available to voluntary drivers of minibuses of 16 seats (or less) and Council employees who do not drive as part of their normal duties but who may take groups out occasionally. It is essential that anyone wishing to drive a Council or Community Transport vehicle has completed this training successfully. The training consists of a classroom session followed by a programme of off-road and on-road driving. Successful trainees are issued with a Certificate of Competence to drive a minibus which is valid for three years. Refresher training is available on expiry of Certificates or for individuals who may like additional training prior to taking a group out.

To qualify for training,

• all candidates must be aged 23 or over but less than 70 years old
• have held a full car license for at least 3 years
• have a legal entitlement to drive a minibus shown on their driving license
• have not had a blameworthy motor accident during the last 3 years
• have never been convicted of a serious motoring offense
• not have any ‘points’ from endorsements during the last 3 years
• not suffer from any illness, disease or physical/mental infirmity which could impair their ability to drive

The Certificate of Competence is recognised by the Council’s Social Services, Community Leisure and Education Departments, local Community Transport Groups and local Voluntary Groups.

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Tail Lift Operation & Wheelchair Clamping

(All YSDCT drivers must hold this qualification if they intend to drive minibuses with wheelchairs onboard)

The Certificate of Competence and training is provided by South Gloucestershire Council and is is recognised by the Council’s Social Services, Community Leisure and Education Departments, local Community Transport Groups and local Voluntary Groups.

The training consists of a practical session with a wheelchair and the two different types of clamps that YSDCT currently use. Refresher training is every three years or when appropriate.

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©2000 YCT (except acknowledged extracts from journals, newspapers, etc) This document last updated 10 July, 2001