Direct Line Group (DLG), home to some of the UK’s most iconic brands, including Direct Line, Churchill, and Green Flag, has unveiled an innovative Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA) accreditation program. Recognised by the esteemed Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), this initiative underscores DLG’s commitment to advancing vehicle repair standards and ensuring customer safety.
With 23 Motor Accident Repair Centres across the UK, DLG combines state-of-the-art facilities with data-driven insights to deliver cost-effective repairs and inform market-leading strategies. Now, with the launch of the VDA accreditation program, DLG becomes one of the few organisations in the UK equipped to offer this prestigious certification.
The program, delivered at DLG’s flagship technology centre based in Stechford, Birmingham, is designed to ensure DLG’s vehicle damage assessors operate at the forefront of safety and skill. Participants receive specialised training to master modern vehicle technologies and repair methodologies. Key areas of focus include advanced materials used in vehicle construction, Electric Vehicle (EV) systems, and safety features such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
To provide a practical, hands-on learning experience, DLG has invested in dedicated training vehicles, allowing assessors to practice on real-world scenarios. This immersive approach empowers participants to confidently diagnose damage and recommend precise, safety-first repair solutions.
Martin Milliner, Claims Director at Direct Line Group, commented:
“Our new VDA accreditation program is a significant milestone for Direct Line Group. It highlights the exceptional expertise of our teams and reinforces our commitment to delivering outstanding customer service. 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.”
As vehicles become more advanced, DLG’s forward-thinking approach positions its teams to adapt seamlessly to industry changes. This initiative reflects the Group’s dedication to customer satisfaction and safety, setting a new benchmark for quality in the vehicle repair sector.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Jade Trimbee
Corporate Communications Manager
Direct Line Group
Mob: 07825 315931
Notes to editors:
- We are the UK's only diversified insurer and we operate in the UK, Ireland and Canada. We also have international investments in India and China.
- We help our 25.3 million customers make the most out of life, plan for the future, and have the confidence that if things go wrong we’ll be there to put it right.
- We have been taking care of people for more than 325 years, in line with our purpose of being ‘with you today, for a better tomorrow’. In 2025, we paid £31.9 billion in claims and benefits to our customers.
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