Direct Line rolls out damage assessor scheme

13 January 2025  

Direct Line Group has unveiled a vehicle damage assessor (VDA) programme aimed at boosting repair standards throughout the UK.

The group, which encompasses brands including Direct Line, Churchill, and Green Flag, has 23 motor accident repair centres across the UK.

The new assessor scheme, which is recognised by the Institute of the Motor Industry, underscores commitment to advancing vehicle repair standards and ensuring customer safety, the group said on January 9.

The scheme is based at the group’s flagship technology centre in Stechford, Birmingham, where participants receive specialised training to master modern vehicle technologies and repair methodologies.

Key areas of focus include advanced materials used in vehicle construction, EV and ADAS systems.

The group said it has invested in dedicated training vehicles to offer a practical learning environment.

Claims director Martin Milliner said: “Our new VDA accreditation programme is a significant milestone for Direct Line Group.

“By investing in cutting-edge training, we’re not only raising the bar for vehicle safety but also ensuring we’re prepared to meet the demands of an increasingly complex automotive landscape.”

Pictured, from left: Assessors Richard Pearson and Mathew Barnett; Gavin Doherty, VDA; Martin Henderson, VDA and Nigel Scholes, training centre manager based in Birmingham