09/06/2026
🏍National Young Rider Day puts rider safety in the spotlight for a new generation of riders 🏍
National Young Rider Day 2026 is shining a spotlight on the growing number of young people using motorcycles and scooters for gig economy work, while also marking the launch of a new campaign ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
As part of the initiative, 500 high-visibility vests have been produced for distribution to gig riders in city and town centres across the UK. The vests are intended to improve rider visibility and encourage safer riding practices among those working in fast-paced urban environments.
Organised by the National Young Rider Forum (NYRF), National Young Rider Day takes place today (9 June) and aims to celebrate young riders while promoting safer riding habits.
It comes at an important time, with recently released figures showing 384 riders were killed on Great Britain’s roads in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 13%.
The campaign recognises the increasing role that motorcycles and scooters play in the gig economy, providing flexible employment opportunities for many young people. However, riders can face unique challenges, including time pressures, busy traffic conditions and long working hours.
To help address these risks, the campaign is promoting a series of key safety messages for gig riders:
• Reduce speed and ride defensively, especially in busy urban areas.
• Do not let time pressure or app incentives push you into unsafe riding.
• Take regular breaks and avoid riding when tired or fatigued.
• Avoid using your phone while moving – stop safely before checking an app.
• Check your bike before every shift, including lights, brakes and tyres.
• Wear appropriate protective and high-visibility equipment at all times.
Organisers are encouraging employers, delivery companies, road safety professionals and partner organisations to share these messages and support riders throughout the day.
They are also signposting riders to the SCORSA website for more information on how to stay safe as a GIG rider.
see here> www.flipsnack.com/rospacatalogue/scorsa-toolkit-gig-economy
National Young Rider Day will also see the launch of a new campaign linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Running throughout the tournament, the campaign will use social media platforms to engage young riders with important road safety messages.
The World Cup campaign will focus on a range of issues affecting rider safety, including the dangers of riding while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Particular attention will be given to raising awareness that impairment can still affect riders the morning after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
The campaign will be delivered through TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X, with young riders encouraged to follow the channels and share the content throughout the tournament.
Finally, organisers are also hosting a free-to-attend online event on 30 June from 6pm to 6.40pm.
Delivered in partnership with Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership, the session is designed to support young riders on all aspects of riding, providing practical advice and guidance to help them stay safe on the roads.
Click here to register> https://tinyurl.com/YoungRiderWebinar
Heidi Duffy MBE, facilitator of the NYRF, said: “Young riders ride motorbikes for many reasons, and we want to help them enjoy it safely. National Young Rider Day is an opportunity to highlight the challenges riders face, share practical advice, and engage with young people through the channels they use every day.
“By combining targeted campaigns, free resources and expert support, we're helping riders build skills, confidence and safer habits for life.
"The NYRF would like to thank its partners, including The Road Safety Trust, for their continued support.”
National Young Rider Day was established in 2023 by the National Young Rider Forum and provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges facing young riders while celebrating the benefits that motorcycles and scooters can offer for transport, employment and independence.
