In last Thursday’s CSAM Committee meeting, we voted unanimously to plan a general restart of our in-car operations, targeting the end of August as the restart date.
This delay, compared to the IAM RoadSmart recommendations, provides us with a few key opportunities:
- Prepare more detailed guidance to for both Associates and Observers;
- Monitor the infection rate as the country opens up more;
- Run a small trial and gain feedback for the guidance we provide based on real experience.
We will have another interim committee meeting on the 13th August to make the final “go / no-go” decision; if the current trends continue and there is no “second spike” then we’ll be back in business.
We plan to embark not only with the 1-1 observed runs for our Associate members, free tasters and member refresher runs, but also (subject to council approval) the monthly meet in the Chichester Northgate car park; this will however be strictly on a booking basis only so we can contribute contact tracking data if the need arises.
We must also stress that there will be no pressure on any individual, Associate or Observer, to participate if they are in a vulnerable group, or just not ready for any other reason. The final decision rests with those that are in the car.
We will be providing PPE to our Observers in line with guidelines provided by IAM RoadSmart. We are fortunate to have an NHS staff member on the Committee whose advice though this period has been invaluable.
As we have all been driving a lot less over the last quarter, do consider a Member refresher run, one of the benefits of being an active member of the group.
While we’re talking about membership, I would encourage you to please keep up your membership of the group, your £10 a year helps to fund the group's activity, which in turn play a part in improving road safety.
As IAM RoadSmart have recently stopped collecting this on our behalf via their Direct Debit, a Standing Order (which you have more control over) is the perfect alternative, a short e-mail or conversation with Matt who looks after membership, or Duncan who looks after the money, is all it takes to get the information you need.
I thank you in advance for your continued contribution to help this most worthwhile activity. Just one coaching session with an associate, existing member or a member of the public could impart the crucial knowledge and skills that helps prevent an accident… not bad for a tenner!
Stay safe on and off the road,
David Mesquita-Morris
Chair, Central Southern Advanced Motorists