Raising the Standard: Responsibility, Influence and the Future of Road Safety

In this full-panel conversation, Terry Cook, Olly Tayler, Kate Monk, Tom Stenson and Dr. Liz Box come together to tackle a big question:

If driving standards are poor, what part are we playing in changing them?

The discussion explores whether standards are genuinely declining, why so many drivers believe they’re “above average,” and how a test-focused culture may be setting learners up with a low starting benchmark. The group challenges the idea that passing the driving test equals competence, arguing instead for a long-term growth mindset built on reflection, emotional regulation and responsibility.

Parental influence becomes a major theme. From assessing parents’ driving to using resources that educate whole households, the panel explores how instructors can create ripple effects far beyond the learner in the driver’s seat.

Dr. Liz Box reflects on 20 years in road safety, highlighting progress in behavioural science and Vision Zero thinking, while also acknowledging structural challenges, political turnover, and the unfinished conversation around graduated driver licensing.

This episode blends frontline experience, research insight and practical ideas, all centred on one challenge:

What part are you playing in supporting safer roads?