What is PATS?

PATS is the passenger assistant training scheme, organised by the Community Transport Association (CTA). It provides a nationally recognised standard of training to people whose role it is to provide care and assistance to passengers travelling by road. It is a membership based scheme that has been designed to improve passenger safety by providing the skills and information for passenger assistants to understand and meet the needs of their passengers. The scheme is owned by Hampshire County Council. If you are looking for PATS training within Hampshire you will need to contact Hampshire County Council’s Passenger Transport Group.

Who is PATS aimed for?

PATS is applicable to any organisation operating or using minibuses, it will usually be organisations who use an accessible minibus. Member organisations range from small voluntary organisations operating one vehicle, to local authorities operating large fleets of minibuses as well as schools, colleges and universities.

How long will my PATS certificate last for?

A passenger assistant trainer’s certificate lasts for four years after which you will need to attend a refresher course. A passenger assistant’s certificate also lasts for four years after which you will need to attend a refresher course.

Please note that there is some confusion regarding a ‘three month grace period’, there is no grace period after a certificate expires and passenger assistant and passenger assistant trainers (PATs) will need ensure that they have either attended a refresher course before their expiry date or applied for an extension. If you do not apply for an extension before your certificate expires you may need to attend a full induction course in order to continue to hold a current PATS certificate.

How is the course delivered?

The course is delivered at our training centre located in Finchley Mews, Finchley Road, Grays, Essex, RM17 6RG.

What are the course modules?

Module A: The role of the passenger assistant:

This is the foundation module for all passenger assistants. This module enables drivers/carers to understand the role of the passenger assistant (PA).

Module B1: Passenger awareness and assistance:

This module covers awareness of passenger needs and how to assist, looking at individuals who don’t use a wheelchair.

Module B2: Assisting passengers who travel in wheelchairs :

B2 covers similar aspects to B1 but focuses specifically on passengers in wheelchairs.

Module C1: Supervising children and young people with special needs :

For PAs who work with children or young people with special needs.

Module C2: Working with adults who need care and supervision :

PAs who work with vulnerable adults.