What is SAFED?

SAFED is a complementary driver development course, consisting of assessment and training. It intends to improve the safe and fuel efficient driving skills of LCV drivers. It therefore should complement a much broader programme of commercial vehicle fleet efficiency management.

Why get SAFED trained?

If you are a fleet operator there are a number of benefits to SAFED style training. Latest figures show a fuel saving between 16 – 20%.

For fleet operators these include:

• Reduced accidents by the fleet with associated reduced costs.
• Reduced fuel costs through more efficient driving style.
• Motivated drivers who have received high quality training.
• Introduction to improved fuel management practises to help improve the management of the fleet.
• Reduced maintenance requirement through improved vehicle sympathy.

For drivers these benefits include:

• Less stressful driving techniques
• More fuel efficient driving.
• Less chance of accidents.
• No impact on journey time.
• The techniques taught adopted for use in your private car, hence personal financial benefits.

Drivers trained on a 2:1 ratio on a full day course, or 1:1 on a half day course.

The Government Funding of SAFED for Vans has been extended.

Driver Training for SAFED

How much does it cost?

Fleet operators/drivers are now required to contribute towards the cost of their training on a sliding scale until the funding is withdrawn in 2010.

Charge per driver (Company has under 250 employees)

• Until September 2009 = £100
• Until March 2010 = £150

Charge per driver (Company has over 250 employees)

• Until September 2009 = £150
• Until March 2010 = £200

Places are limited and will be given on a first come first serve basis until the funding has been exhausted. Companies that have previously has more than 50 funded drivers will not be eligible for any further funded places and other companies will be limited to 10 funded places.