After fourteen years with the organisation, Jay Solanki – our MiDAS Trainer at the Greenford Depot – is due to retire.
The Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme training – or MiDAS for short – is the nationally-recognised standard for people who need to drive a minibus. It’s there for individuals and organisations wanting to improve passenger safety and comfort – and build driving skills and confidence behind the wheel. It’s an important part of the work we do as a Community Transport organisation.
‘I first joined as a school service driver’ explains Jay, talking of his time at ECT Charity. ‘I’d spent 35 years as a quantity surveyor and, after a career break, I tried my hand at a number of things, but I’ve always enjoyed driving. When I started driving at Ealing, I loved it. I then got an opportunity to do more, I moved onto driving on Adult Social Care services and then Dial-a-Ride. When the opportunity to train as a MiDAS Trainer arrived in 2014, I leapt at the chance.
‘Since that time, I’ve trained over 1200 people to the MiDAS standard – and almost 120 people to be Passenger Assistants. I’ve trained all kinds of people – my colleagues across the organisation, community group members, faith group members, schoolteachers and council staff – to name but a few. I’ve really enjoyed that experience – the teaching and passing on of knowledge in classroom sessions and helping people to drive safely on the road.
‘I’d like to say ‘thank you’ to ECT Charity for giving me a wonderful time. I’ve greatly enjoyed my time as a trainer; it’s been worthwhile as I’ve been able to help so many people – to do the work that they do and to become better, safer drivers.”
John Chesters, ECT Charity CEO, said ‘I’m sure everyone across the organisation – and all of those who have been trained by Jay in the wider community – will be wishing him the very best for his retirement. Jay’s work has been exemplary, and we’d like to thank him for everything he has achieved.’
