Executive summary

This independent process evaluation assesses Phase 2 of Transport Scotland’s Building Capacity in the Safe System programme. Funded by Transport Scotland and designed and delivered by Agilysis, the initiative aimed to build understanding and capacity among Scotland’s road safety professionals through a combination of in-person and online training, stakeholder engagement, and the creation of a dedicated Safe System Manual. Drawing on survey responses, stakeholder interviews, and document review, the evaluation explores the programme’s delivery, participant engagement, and early outcomes.

The programme was delivered effectively and reached a wide audience. Across both in-person and online formats, over 500 individuals participated in training, with demand exceeding expectations. Agilysis responded flexibly by expanding provision, enabling professionals from a diverse range of roles and sectors to participate. The two-day in-person training was widely praised for its immersive format, which allowed participants to step away from daily responsibilities and reflect deeply on Safe System principles. Scenario-based activities were particularly influential in encouraging systems thinking and practical application. The online Safe System Principles training successfully extended access to those unable or not in a position to attend in person. It attracted a similarly diverse audience, including many with no prior exposure to the Safe System, and provided a structured, accessible learning experience.

Evaluation findings from both in-person and online training formats showed statistically significant improvements in Safe System knowledge, confidence, and perceived relevance to participants’ roles. While effect sizes were larger for the in-person cohort, the online participants also experienced meaningful gains. Participants in both groups highlighted the value of understanding the system as a whole, recognising the importance of shared responsibility and the need to communicate these principles within their own organisations. Online respondents also identified the importance of self-efficacy in promoting Safe System ideas and expressed interest in follow-up opportunities to reinforce learning.

Feedback from both surveys and interviews indicated high levels of satisfaction with the quality of training content and facilitation. The in-person format was seen as particularly effective for fostering collaboration and culture change, while the online version was valued for its clarity and accessibility. Some respondents recommended the development of shorter or tailored formats to engage senior leaders or time-constrained professionals. The Safe System Manual was widely endorsed as a critical output of the programme. It was viewed as an essential support tool to reinforce training content, guide ongoing application, and sustain knowledge across the system. Stakeholders also highlighted its potential for wider dissemination and future development as a living resource.

Despite these successes, a number of implementation challenges were noted. These included resource limitations, competing priorities, and a lack of senior-level engagement in some contexts. While the training succeeded in building knowledge and intent, the ability to translate learning into sustained practice varies and may require targeted follow-up support, leadership engagement, and longer-term monitoring.

Overall, Phase 2 has delivered effectively on its intended goals. It has strengthened capacity, increased systems-based understanding, and supported a shift toward shared responsibility in Scotland’s road safety landscape.

In light of these findings, the evaluation recommends the following actions:

Retain the two-day in-person training

As the core offer for future training, recognising its value in supporting deep reflection and meaningful culture change.

Expand lighter-touch formats

Such as one-day sessions or tailored briefings, to engage political leaders and senior executives who may have limited time.

Continue offering the online training format

As a scalable and accessible entry point for a wide range of professionals across sectors.

Promote and regularly update the Safe System Manual

To support ongoing learning, application, and integration of Safe System principles in practice.

Develop additional training modules

Including thematic or role-specific content, to strengthen the practical application of systems thinking across professional contexts.

Introduce follow-up evaluation and peer learning networks

To monitor long-term impact, support implementation, and encourage sustained engagement.

Champion Scotland’s approach internationally

By sharing insights and promoting the programme as a model for systems-based capacity building in road safety.

By taking these steps, stakeholders can help build on progress to date and further embed Safe System thinking across Scotland’s road safety landscape.