The Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme, usually abbreviated to MiDAS, is a training and registration scheme for drivers of
minibuses in the
UK.
Following a number of serious accidents where drivers and passengers using minibuses were killed or seriously injured in the 1990s the government, with the involvement of
RoSPA and the
Community Transport Association, created a programme to train and assess the competence of drivers. It may optionally include certification to use tail lifts and adaptations for
wheelchairs that permit the passenger to travel safely whilst remaining in the chair.
Most volunteer drivers driving for community organisations and schools are now required to have and maintain their MiDAS qualification in order to carry out their duties, no matter that their normal driving licence may already entitle them to drive a minibus.
References
Minibuses
Driver's education
Bus terminology
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