Would you like to become a safer driver – the IAM can help you improve your driving skills

by | Dec 17, 2024 | Dartford Charities

Driving around Dartford isn’t as simple as you might think. Just consider the different road types in the area – the M25, A roads, B roads and country lanes, single carriage ways and dual carriage ways.

Many drivers are unaware of the ways in which they should adapt their driving styles to the different types of road, and let’s not forget day time / night time driving coupled with different weather conditions! Most road users will pass their DVSA driving test and, over the years, forget good practices learned from an instructor and pick up a few not-so-good practices on the way.

All is not lost, though. IAM RoadSmart is a charity set up to promote road safety, and coaches car drivers and motorcycle riders users in improving their driving techniques.

The South Eastern Group is one of IAM RoadSmart’s oldest Groups. It was formed in 1963 by a small group of local drivers who had successfully passed the Institute’s Advanced Driving Test.  Originally its area covered all of South East London and Kent but as the Institute has grown through the years and new Groups have been formed, it has based itself on South East London and North West Kent.

That small group of 1960’s motorists would probably not have known what their little club would become. Today South Eastern Group has over 300 full members and over 30 associate members in training to take the Advanced Test along with an enviable test pass rate. It holds regular meetings to which all members and associates are welcome and publishes its own quarterly magazine – SEGMENT.

Despite its much increased size, the Group still cherishes its prime ideal of improving road safety by developing individual awareness and responsibility, but in a friendly and inspiring way. Our objective is a smooth driving style which is safe, legal and progressive.

The Group is a registered charity and although it is affiliated to the IAM, it is run entirely independently by volunteers.

Free taster sessions are available for anyone wanting to discover more. Simply visit us at https://iamsoutheasterngroup.org.uk/free-taster-sessions/

Early work begins on the Lower Thames Crossing

The early work to prepare parts of Essex and Kent for construction of National Highways’ Lower Thames Crossing is now underway. Before the major construction and tunnelling begins in 2028, work will be carried out to protect the area’s utility supplies, heritage, and...

Dartford launches bid to become the UK’s first Town of Culture

Dartford has officially entered the race to become the UK’s first Town of Culture, confirming its intention to submit an Expression of Interest by 31 March in the new national competition launched by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). The Town of...

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) celebrates the women behind lifesaving charity

Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) is proud to mark International Women’s Day 2026 by celebrating the remarkable contribution of women across our lifesaving service. This year’s global theme, ‘Give to Gain’, which encourages a mindset of generosity...

Charity brings family more time with their beloved retired police dog

A charity that helps retired police dogs access the best in veterinary care has covered the cost of vital surgery for a Labrador who worked as a search and detection dog with Kent Police. Retired police dog (RPD) Max worked as a passive drugs detection dog with...

CINDERELLA – PANTO MAGIC RETURNS TO THE ORCHARD THEATRE THIS CHRISTMAS

The countdown is on to the biggest ball of the year, and you’re all invited! This festive season, the curtain will rise at the newly refurbished Orchard Theatre welcoming audiences back with everyone’s favourite rags to riches tale with the spectacular family...

Railway through Dartford reopens for Southeastern and Thameslink passengers following major half-term upgrade

£10m of work completed on time with improvements to several stations so that trains can resume. The South Eastern Railway has successfully reopened the railway through Dartford after completing a significant upgrade programme carried out over the February half-term,...

DARTFORD FC WOMEN | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET HARRIET KWOK

Dartford took on Brentwood Town at the end of January. Chris Palmer spoke to Harriet Hiu Ching Kwok, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: This is Harriet Hiu Ching Kwok's first season with the Dartford...

DARTFORD FC | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET DENZELLE OLOPADE

Dartford took on Brentwood Town at the end of January. Chris Palmer spoke to Denzelle Olopade, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: This is Denzelle Olopade's second campaign at Princes Park, and the...

Love is best shared at ASK Italian this February

ASK Italian is celebrating Valentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day with a new set menu featuring limited edition sharing specials, designed for generous, memorable moments around the table this February. Available now until 15th February,...

CREW CLOTHING OPENS NEW STORE AT BLUEWATER

THE PREMIUM BRITISH LIFESTYLE BRAND OPENS AT KENT’S PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION Premium British lifestyle brand Crew Clothing is delighted to announce the opening of its brand-new store at Bluewater, the premier shopping destination in Kent. Opening on 26th February,...