Objective
We at the Driver Vehicle and Services Agency (DVSA) had looked at options to use remote interviews as a fall-back position, due to the challenges that face-to-face interviews can present, with the widespread locations of formal hearings and public enquiries.Â
Situation
Issues around rescheduling and cancellations of Public Inquiries can have huge financial implications, as well as delaying natural justice, in an area of very important road safety matters, that must be addressed.Â
Action
In consultation with DA Languages we managed to increase the availability of interpreters remotely which allows for a far more flexible approach and ultimately has meant that there are less chances of formal hearings being cancelled. Â
Also, our enforcement examiners at the roadside are starting to use the remote service where possible therefore there are real advantages for all concerned.
Impact
Although most enforcement staff certainly still prefer face to face interviews as that has been the culture for many years, we are now seeing an improved take up rate of this service which bodes well for the future as it gives us far more flexibility and lessens the chances of cancellations. With the help and expertise and support from DA Languages we have become not only more effective but more efficient too.Â
