WAT Service Train the Trainer

NSW News

COVID-Safe WAT service Train the Trainer

The NSW Taxi Council conducted its first COVID-Safe WAT (Wheelchair Accessible Taxi) service — Train the Trainer program recently at the Cessnock Leagues Club. Nick Abrahim — Deputy CEO, NSW Taxi Council trained previously accredited and new WAT Service Assessors from its member networks — Diggers Maitland Taxis and Cessnock Radio Cabs. The WAT Assessor Train the Trainer Program has been developed for Service Providers to meet the requirements of the Point to Point Transport Commission WAT Driver Competency Guidelines tool. The program helps previously accredited WAT Assessors undergo a refresher training to help with the Training and Assessing process through a consistent and up to date system.

TESTIMONIAL... The NSW Taxi Council

"The presentation and learnings have been great from the training. It reminds us of the importance of giving a good WAT service and to make sure that we were doing all we can to provide the service safely. The key takeaways were safety for passengers and drivers is paramount, complacency has no place in WAT service and keeping fresh and updated is essential. The practical examples are a great help and the training has ensured that we maintain the highest level of

standards in teaching future regional WAT drivers."

looks forward to continuing to roll out the WAT Assessor Train the Trainer Program for the remainder of 2020.

TESTIMONIAL...

"The whole programme has been a great experience. Nick is a very good trainer and not only explains things simply but also listens. The training helps us to ensure that our WAT drivers are trained properly by us, so they can give best services to our customers in the Region. The standout learning for me personally was understanding that ALL customers are different and all of them should be treated with respect, and teaching drivers the right way leads to better customer service. It also showcased that great training leads to great teaching."

The programme covers several modules including Customer Service, WH&S, Driving and Operating a WAT Vehicle. The programme also includes a Practical component in the safe loading and unloading of passengers using a wheelchair. In addition, the training is also structured to help approved Assessors develop the required skills and competency to be effective and compliant WAT Assessors.

Nick Abrahim – Deputy CEO, NSW Taxi Council expressed his views on the importance of the programme and said that, “Continued training and learning is key for WAT Assessors in Regional NSW. This is critical to ensure that those who are accredited to provide training and assessment continue to receive up to date training, to ensure a best in class training program and assessment regime is maintained.

It is crucial that the NSW Taxi Council continues to work with our members to upskill our drivers and assessors to ensure that the highest standards are maintained when providing services to members of the disability sector. Having approved Assessors in the Regions is also important to ensure that Taxi Drivers can have access to accredited trainers without being disadvantaged or delayed due to their location.” The NSW Taxi Council has adopted a robust and thorough COVID-19 policy for any person undertaking this programme or any of its other Training Programs. In relation to the Train the Trainer WAT Assessor Program, it was ensured that COVIDSafe policies were adopted and social distancing measures were practiced throughout the training.

Where social distancing may be difficult, all attendees are required to wear face masks. This is in addition to keeping an attendance record for each person, sanitisation and cleaning throughout the training, as well as regular cleaning of the training room.