North West Operators Strengthen Driver Safety Standards
Three northwest England bus operators enroll 1,600 drivers in collision-free driving program
Three UK Bus Operators Join ROSCO Safety Program
More than 1,600 bus drivers across northwest England will participate in a national safe driving recognition program after three operators joined the initiative. Go North West, Diamond Bus North West, and Preston Bus have enrolled their drivers in the Road Operators Safety Council scheme, which rewards collision-free driving. The expansion brings ROSCO's total network to more than 80 operators supporting around 30,000 drivers nationwide.
Context & Background
ROSCO, launched in 1955, operates the UK's longest-running professional driver recognition program. The scheme identifies and rewards drivers who maintain collision-free records and demonstrate professional driving standards. The council distributes approximately 15,000 awards annually to participating drivers. Transit operators use the program to reinforce safety culture and reduce accident rates across their fleets.
Key Details
Go North West will gradually roll out the scheme to almost 1,000 drivers across its depots in Bolton, Wigan, Denton, and Heywood. Diamond Bus North West and Preston Bus, both owned by Rotala, will collectively enroll 769 drivers into the program. Managing directors from all three companies said the initiative aligns with their commitment to road safety and professional driving standards. The program tracks driver performance and recognizes those who maintain clean safety records over extended periods.
Timeline & Implementation
The three operators have begun enrolling drivers into the ROSCO scheme, though officials didn't provide a specific timeline for when all 1,600 drivers will complete the enrollment process. Go North West plans a gradual rollout across its four depot locations. The program will operate alongside existing safety training and monitoring systems at each company.
Rider Impact & Moovit
The expansion of ROSCO's safe driving program aims to improve safety standards for bus passengers across the North West region. Riders on routes operated by Go North West, Diamond Bus North West, and Preston Bus will benefit from enhanced driver training and recognition programs. Moovit provides real-time updates and service information for bus routes throughout the UK, including services operated by participating ROSCO members.
