MiDAS

The scheme helps to enhance the skills of drivers.  MiDAS is endorsed by many organisations including RoSPA, National Union of Teachers, Help the Aged, Driving Standards Agency and the Association of Transport Co-ordinating Officers.  

MiDAS is aimed at any organisation operating or using minibuses.

What are the Objectives?

Minibus drivers will:

• Be assessed to ensure their driving skills are of an acceptable standard
• Be given help where necessary to improve their minibus driving skills
• Be aware of the legal, practical and safety issues surrounding minibus driving
• Be trained in the safe use of accessible minibuses where necessary
• Receive a certificate which is valid for 4 years and is accepted by other MiDAS members.   

Potential Benefits of MiDAS

The many potential benefits of MiDAS include:

• Enhanced passenger safety
• Improved passenger comfort
• Increased driver confidence
• Reduced stress on minibus drivers
• Potential reduction in vehicle running costs
• Potential reduction in insurance premiums
• A better image for organisations
• A better image for minibuses 

MiDAS members may display a sticker in their minibus to inform the public that the vehicle is driven by a MiDAS holder.

MiDAS Course

The course consists of a full day theory class, followed by an hour’s practical driving, which can be arranged at your own convenience.

The cost is £65 and it can now be covered by ILA Scotland.

Candidates

If you wish to do the MiDAS course you should have:

• A valid driving licence, with the correct licence entitlement for the type of minibus which you will be driving
• An up-to-date knowledge of the highway code
• Also, if you passed your driving test after 1997:
• You must be over 21 years old
• You must have had a valid driving licence for at least 2 years
• You can only drive on a voluntary basis
• The vehicle must be less than 3.5 tonnes 

Help with Funding the Course

ILA Scotland is a Scottish Government scheme that helps you pay for learning that you can do at a time, place, pace and in a way to suit you.  It’s for people who have an income of £22,000 a year or less, or who are on benefits.

Third Sector Hebrides is an ILA Scotland approved Learning provider.

Students can apply for an Individual Learning Account (ILA) of £200 which, if eligible, can be used towards covering the cost of the MiDAS course. 

For an application pack or to find out more information on the ILA
Call: 0808 100 1090
Or visit the website at: www.ilascotland.org.uk

Contacting Us

For MiDAS information and bookings, please get in touch with Staran.

Either by phone:  01851 702632
or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Or by visiting our offices at:
30 Francis Street, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, HS1 2ND

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