A coalition of road-safety organisations has released a new set of tools aimed at cutting the risks young people face behind the wheel. The materials are designed to support learners, parents and supervisors, and to translate research into practical steps that can be used during supervised practice and the early months of solo driving.
What the new resources include for learner drivers
Several leading bodies have worked together to build a practical package for new drivers. The aim is to make supervised learning clearer and more structured.
- Downloadable guidance for parents and supervisors on safe coaching techniques.
- Practice to Pass scorecards — instructor-informed checklists to track key driving skills.
- Advice on creating safer habits during and after learning to drive.
- Tips for transitioning from supervised practice to independent driving.
These materials are free to use and meant to be accessible to families and driving instructors. The focus is on actionable steps rather than academic theory.
Who produced the toolkit and why now
The initiative brings together IAM RoadSmart, the RAC, the RAC Foundation and behavioural scientist Dr Elizabeth Box. They say the evidence was compelling enough to prompt immediate action.
- IAM RoadSmart helped shape the coaching advice.
- The RAC and RAC Foundation contributed data and practical insights.
- Dr Elizabeth Box added behavioural science to support lasting habit change.
The partners say the package is optional, but valuable for families who want more confidence when helping learners gain experience.
Alarming data behind the campaign
Recent figures show a disproportionate share of serious collisions involves young drivers. Those aged 17 to 24 were linked to nearly a quarter of fatal and serious crashes in 2024.
At the same time, that group makes up only about six percent of licence holders. The gap between exposure and risk is what drives the campaign.
How parents and guardians can help reduce risk
Experts stress that parental involvement during learning has measurable benefits.
- Set clear, structured practice sessions rather than sporadic drives.
- Use the Practice to Pass checklists to track progress objectively.
- Discuss hazards and decision-making after each session.
- Encourage gradual exposure to complex situations, such as night driving and motorways.
Dr Box argues that many families currently lack practical guidance. The new materials, she says, are intended to spark constructive conversations that change behaviour.
Where the policy debate stands on learner periods and targets
The release of these resources comes as the government pushes forward with a new Road Safety Strategy. That strategy sets out long-term aims and possible regulatory changes.
- Consultation proposals include a minimum learning period for new drivers.
- Options under discussion range from a three- to a six-month minimum practice requirement.
- The government hopes for a 65% reduction in fatalities and serious injuries by 2035, using a 2022–2024 baseline.
- A more ambitious target aims to cut deaths and serious injuries among children under 16 by 70%.
Those targets are part of a wider effort to reshape how road safety is managed across Britain over the next decade.
Experts’ perspective: aims and limits of the approach
Campaign leaders acknowledge that information alone is not a cure-all. But they say well-designed guidance can be a vital first step.
Practical intent
Nicholas Lyes, policy and communications director at IAM RoadSmart, said the group felt a duty to act. He highlighted that parental support is a proven way to improve learner outcomes.
Realistic expectations
Dr Box notes that while guidance will not solve every barrier, it can increase family confidence and lead to safer choices during early driving experiences.
How the tools are intended to be used day to day
The new materials are built for simple, repeatable use. They are designed to slot into regular practice sessions and to be revisited as skills develop.
- Download a Practice to Pass scorecard.
- Plan short, focused practice tasks around one skill at a time.
- Use the checklist to record performance and note where to improve.
- Discuss coping strategies for tricky conditions after each drive.
Consistent, measured practice is the message. Small, steady wins add up to safer, more capable new drivers.
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