Southend And District Driving Instructors Association or as it is more commonly known SADDIA was set up in 1986 to help pool the knowledge and resources of driving instructors around Essex and although the name suggests it is for instructors, in Southend we have members along the Thames corridor, including Southend, Basildon, Tilbury and Brentwood.
The benefits of being in SADDIA are:
- Up To Date News – Locally and from the DVSA
- Regular Members Meetings including CPD events
- Social Events
- Training
- Representation on National Committees
- Help & Support from likeminded ADi’s
As driving instructors we deal with road safety every day but Southend And District Driving Instructors Association also visit schools and colleges as part of the Southend Borough and Essex County Councils road safety events which not only gives us a chance to be part of a high impact road safety event but allows the instructors to advertise themselves and services.
SADDIA also plays an active role in the local decisions by the DVSA and represents driving instructors in personal matters and complaints to do with the DVSA. One of our most successful campaigns is in flagging the need of a test centre in Southend as well as Basildon to the Minister of Transport. This led to a test centre returning to Southend on Sea.
As well as dealing with local issues, like road markings etc, we also have 2 Committee members who are also active members of the ADi National Joint Council. This helps us keep our finger on the pulse for our industry but helps us voice the opinions of our members direct to the DVSA when changes are being considered.
Our job as an ADi can be a lonely one with not many people understanding the stresses of driving tuition but at SADDIA we organise lots of social events so you can chat with like minded people. Recent social events have included:
- Meals out
- Christmas Event
- Bowling
- Charity nights
- Quiz Nights
- Skid Pan
We are an active association and welcome new members from any sector of the driving instructor industry, all you need to do is complete the application form/standing order mandate and you too can have a say in how our industry develops as well as having the back up of many local colleagues.
