‘GOLDen’ campaign targets older drivers

A road safety campaign in Norfolk, fronted by local TV presenter Carol Bundock, has been relaunched to help keep older drivers driving safer for longer.

Part of Norfolk County Council’s ‘Keep Your Mind on the Road’ campaign, GOLD (Guidance for Older Drivers) is for people aged over 55 who are concerned about their driving. It aims to help older people continue driving for as long as it remains safe to do so.

GOLD offers driver development sessions in the driver’s own car and on the roads they regularly use. It is designed to help older drivers regain lost confidence, bring their skills up to date and overcome specific problems such as night driving or the effects of medication. The sessions are delivered by Norfolk County Council’s road safety team at a cost of £29.

GOLD is a direct response to Norfolk’s ageing population. Predicted trends indicate that by 2035 Norfolk’s population of people aged 65+ could grow by almost 65%.

Carol Bundock said: “I am delighted to be launching the GOLD campaign. As the years go by, we’re all bound to feel a little less confident behind the wheel so it’s ideal there’s a course specifically for older drivers. I wanted to ensure my driving skills were still as good as the day I passed my test so I took a driver development session. I now feel much more confident behind the wheel. I can’t recommend it enough.”

Alec Byrne, chairman of Norfolk Casualty Reduction Partnership, said: “It’s important to plan ahead to ensure Norfolk meets the needs of its residents and with the population becoming older, GOLD will help to ensure Norfolk’s roads continue to be safe for older drivers.

“We are conscious, as a rural county, that many older people can retain their independence through driving, so advice and practical driving sessions will help older drivers drive safer for longer.”

For more information contact Iain Temperton from Norfolk’s road safety team on 07748 933955.