Innovative research projects including a study of the effectiveness of a learner-driver coaching programme have been announced as the first recipients of funding awarded through a major scholarship scheme.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents established the scholarship scheme after BNFL (British Nuclear Fuels) donated a total of £500,000 to fund research that will have a significant impact on improving safety in the UK and around the world.
Thirty-two research proposals addressing key themes in road, home, work, water and leisure safety, safety education and risk communication were received in response to the first call for applications.
A project evaluating Staffordshire County Council’s Young Drivers Coaching Programme, conducted by Irene Williamson of Staffordshire County Council and Dr Helen Wells of Keele University, will receive £20,000. The coaching programme is designed to help young people and their parents through the learning-to-drive process.
Other projects funded include research into the scale and impact of child injuries in Nepal and the threat posed by cold water immersion.
The RoSPA/BNFL Scholarship Scheme is believed to be one of the biggest accident-prevention scholarships ever funded.
It is envisaged that the RoSPA/BNFL Scholarship Scheme will run for 10 years, and up to three projects will be awarded grants annually. The researcher who produces the best work each year will receive a further cash prize as an added incentive for excellence.
Information for applying for the 2010 round of awards will be available from November
