IAM (from my experience), has never used the mantra "you must make progress" as their most important consideration. It's simply not the case. Things have changed from years back, and as a National Observer myself, our main concern is safety. The priorities we provide guidance on suggests that safety first, then legality. Correct use of the system of riding is explained, concentrating on the main competency areas, to assist riders achieving recognised standards of competency and this absolutely has safety at it's head.
Our aim is to be constructive, to motivate and to provide the information and guidance for each rider to progress towards a standard of riding where safety is first and foremost the key consideration. Progress comes naturally from applying the system of riding, which adds smoothness and confidence (with experience). The aim is to produce a "thinking rider" who recognises and practices the importance of well informed risk assessment when riding to inform them and allow for solid judgements when applying the system. Key to all of this lays in promoting improved observation, raising vision as far as possible, to allow for adequate planning and reaction time to constantly varying conditions, all using the advanced techniques highlighted in Roadcraft, hence the Rider's Logbook is based on the Roadcraft manual.
In any organisation, you see examples of good and not so good and the IAM and ROSPA aren't immune to that, but in general, they do a good job of promoting safer riding standards and producing riders who are far better informed and competent in their riding standards. As an N/O, I and my fellow N/O's put a hell of a lot of work and effort into trying to help other riders for no reward other than the satisfaction the comes from seeing the progress many make, and hopefully, do our bit to help others make themselves safer on todays roads. We are under no pretences that we represent "the gold standard", just that we have been assessed and recognised by the IMI as competent to undertake such roles. Every ride is a learning ride and there's no such thing as the perfect ride, so we're all aware that the learning journey is ongoing and always will be. You do get the odd arrogant individual, but I'd like to think that they are in the minority.
I try and remain at arms length from the politics but am aware of the commercial interests of these organisations. If anyone is taken advantage of, it's the hard working and well meaning N/O's who after all, do the lion's share of the work on the ground for the IAM and ROSPA.
