Training and workforce development
Good community transport is built on well-trained people, not just accessible vehicles. This section sets out how we intend to train our own drivers and escorts, and what we hope to offer other organisations further down the line.
Why training matters to us
A minibus is only as safe as the person driving it. Our approach to training runs through everything we plan to do: recruiting people who can be trusted with vulnerable passengers, assessing their driving to a recognised standard, and giving them the confidence to support passengers with a wide range of needs. This section brings together our approach, the accreditations we are working towards, and how organisations and individuals can register interest.
Important accreditation position
Not currently an accredited training centre
Community Ride Hub is not currently a MiDAS or PATS accredited training centre. We cannot yet deliver accredited MiDAS or PATS courses to anyone, inside or outside the organisation. Every page in this section describes a proposed or future position, or an intention we are working towards. Nothing here is a course you can book or pay for today.
Explore training
Our approach
How we intend to combine assessed driving standards with people-focused training, and how someone would progress from enquiry to driving unaccompanied.
MiDAS
What the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme covers, why commissioners ask for it, and our accreditation position.
PATS
What the Passenger Assistant Training Scheme covers for escorts, and our accreditation position.
Safeguarding and passenger support
Recognise, respond, record — plus dementia, sensory and mental health awareness for everyone who meets passengers.
For organisations
How schools, care providers and community groups might work with us on training once we are accredited.
MiDAS Driver Assessor Development
A longer-term pathway for people interested in becoming a MiDAS assessor: the role, the route and quality assurance.
Current status
| Service | Current position | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MiDAS accreditation | Not yet accredited | Working towards centre status |
| PATS accreditation | Not yet accredited | Working towards centre status |
| Internal driver training | In development | Induction, DBS, defect checks |
| Safeguarding training | In development | For drivers and escorts |
| MiDAS Driver Assessor pathway | Planning stage | Expressions of interest welcome |
Want to know more about training?
If you are interested in driving, volunteering, or working with us on training in future, we would like to hear from you.