Dear DITC Members

Another challenging year! Who knew that being busy could be as challenging as being unable to work - if not more so. (Definitely not Loveday Ryder who I had the opportunity to educate at the Expo)
We continue to get contacted by many requests for information, advice and help and are reminded every time that no two instructors needs are the same. It is no less challenging for the veteran ADI than the PDI or newly qualified, the questions are just different.

Our end goal of unity and support stays strong and while it isn't as simple as we would like, with your continued support we know there are some leaps forward due in 2022.

What we have learnt in 2021 is that we do not need a different approach to dealing with the DVSA, we need to find better ways to deal without them. Despite promises and requests we have not received a full and formal reply to our open letter. We are led to believe elements of what was raised have been taken into account in the upcoming changes - particularly in educating candidates in the standards needed.

It is important that we maintain a voice and will continue to do so. However we do not want to take the place of the NASP associations hanging on the words of the DVSA to be a benefit to their members. We want to grow in strength and lead by example. We have been working hard to grow allegiances and support which we will be continuing to provide to the membership.

We are also improving our focus on the things that matter most. The health - both mental as physical - of our colleagues. This has been something we have done through COVID, and now move into areas that include depression and perimenopause. As a male run collective we’d like to thank those that have encouraged us to champion a poorly recognised subject that affects so many, directly and indirectly. It's been an education and we now understand better how these areas make up and influence the many hats which make an ADI.

Finally, we hope that you have managed to have a peaceful Christmas. To reflect, relax and recuperate. To energise, enjoy and embrace. We are truly proud to be a part of such a band of people who do so much good. Raise a glass, rest your pedals, and may 2022 be all that we can hope.
Merry Christmas

From
Chris & Ian at the Driving Instructor and Trainers Collective