Rob Heard, a retired Police Sergeant who works with Driving Mobility, has received an MBE in the New Year Honours List, officially recognising his tireless commitment to improving road safety.
Rob Heard MBE, 58 from Hampshire, served as a Police Officer for 30 years. In his last 5 years he was the Road Safety Sergeant for Hampshire and Thames Valley Police and dealt with over 100 fatalities. He witnessed first-hand the consequences of dangerous driving and since retiring, has committed his time to consulting and campaigning for road safety. A priority for Rob has been supporting and signposting older drivers through his consultative work for Driving Mobility.
Supported by the Department for Transport in England, Driving Mobility is the national charity that accredits a network of NHS and independent ‘fitness to drive’ and mobility assessment centres. The occupational therapists and Approved Driving Instructors at each centre assess and advise clients, including those signposted from the DVLA, NHS, Motability and Police. Driving Mobility also delivers a range of additional services and projects including those spearheaded by Rob. One such initiative is the Police Alternative to Prosecution Scheme for Older Drivers which is provided in conjunction with several constabularies. Rob also continually campaigns for older drivers to reach out to Driving Mobility centres for assessment of their driving skills and eyesight.
On becoming a Member of the Order of the British Empire, Rob said: “I feel very humbled to receive this MBE, there are so many people deserving of recognition for the hard work and dedication they give to make a difference. I am passionate about road safety and I have really seen how effective giving advice and support can be to making roads safer for all. I truly recognise success has been down to a team effort and I appreciate all the support I have received from many.”
“Working with Driving Mobility for many years has highlighted to me how caring and supportive all its staff are. They are dedicated to enabling people to be mobile and independent for as long as possible. Equally if being behind the wheel is no longer viable, they are wonderful at helping people retire from driving and find other ways to get around. I am proud to work with Driving Mobility and look forward to supporting the charity again in 2025 and beyond.”
All at Driving Mobility congratulate Rob on his achievement and believe it is fully deserved. In conclusion, Edward Trewhella, CEO Driving Mobility, adds: “This official recognition of Rob’s trailblazing attitude to road safety is to be commended. His level of commitment to reducing risk on the roads always reflects our own values and ethos. Rob has, and will always be, a valued partner in our proposition. Well done Rob Heard MBE!”
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