DVSA launches campaign to protect staff from abuse
Government agency says attacks on driving examiners, vehicle testers and roadside enforcement staff have increased 50 per cent in a year
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency is to crackdown on abuse of its staff.
The government agency has launched a campaign, warning perpetrators about the consequences.
Between April 2016 and March 2017, says the DVSA, more than 300 members of its staff were subjected to abuse — a shocking 50 per cent increase over the previous year.
It included death threats, verbal abuse, damage to staff cars and serious physical assaults. There are even cases of failed test candidates driving off with examiners still in the passenger seat against their will.
The DVSA has warned anyone found verbally abusing staff will be forced to take their next tests at a different centre with an extra supervisor. More extreme cases will be reported to the police.
Gareth Llewellyn, DVSA chief executive, said: “I am immensely proud of my colleagues at DVSA. We do not tolerate anyone abusing, threatening or assaulting them.
“Our message is clear – whatever has happened, don’t take it out on our staff. If you do, we’ll press for the strongest possible penalties.”
