ROAD SAFETY TIME BANK:

We were pleased to be involved with the administration of the Road Safety Time Bank User Conference which was held at the Hotel Russell in central London on Thursday 12 March 2009.

The Road Safety Time Bank gives road safety and casualty reduction professionals the opportunity to learn from the work of a broad spectrum of their peers.  Members have access to the kind of real world knowledge and expertise required to help improve performance and add quality and breadth to local service delivery. The Road Safety Time Bank works on a 'no fee' basis - it only costs users their time.  Membership is currently open to all local highway authorities in the UK and their road safety partners.

This conference enabled delegates to gain a greater understanding of what the Road Safety Time Bank can do for them and their organisation.  The day comprised a series of 15-minute Case Study sessions to give a broad overview of a wide range of subjects.  Topics for these sessions included:

• Speed limit reviews
• Joint enforcement campaigns
• Engaging with the local community
• Older drivers
• Work-related driving
• Drug driving

Discussion Forums enabled delegates to expand their knowledge in one key area of particular interest.  Delegates were able to choose one of the following options:

• Powered 2-wheelers including smaller machines in urban areas.
• Work-related driving.
• Integrated road safety in the wider agenda.
• Emerging problems including quad bikes, drug driving and engaging partners.

There was also be a technical support desk and a market place in the refreshment area throughout the day where delegates posted their specific questions and have them answered by the panel of experts.

Although there are no plans for another event at present we are happy to receive expressions of interest which we will pass on to the Road Safety Time Bank committee.