Taking a step towards safer and more inclusive roads in Singapore

Deliveroo Singapore’s commitment to rider safety achieved a new milestone this October with the launch of its fourth annual Rider Safety Month. This year, the focus is not only on enhancing safety but also on fostering inclusivity on the roads. A collaboration with local disability-focused charity SPD led to the creation of a hands-on workshop that empowers both riders and persons with disabilities (PWDs) to share the roads safely. Named Inclusive Roads for All, this initiative underscores Deliveroo’s ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive road environment, ahead of new government regulations set to take effect next year.

At the heart of this initiative is the belief that road safety is a shared responsibility, as Deliveroo continues to engage its riders in programmes that not only improve their own safety but also raise awareness of the challenges faced by other vulnerable road users, including those using personal mobility aids (PMAs).

Since its inception in 2021, Rider Safety Month has become a vital part of Deliveroo’s commitment to road safety in Singapore. Kartavya Bhola, Head of Operations at Deliveroo, shared key insights from the past four years with HRM Asia and said, “Over the years, the issue of road safety has been at the centre of our efforts for our riders. We’ve seen how important training is, but we’ve also realised that safety training can sometimes be missed by riders. That’s why we’re continuously engaging them, not just during Rider Safety Month but throughout the year, reminding them that it’s okay to take a break if they feel unsafe, or even reject orders if necessary. At the end of the day, this is a job, but we want our riders to be safe.”

This year’s initiative focuses on inclusivity, with a special emphasis on supporting PMA users and PWDs. Bhola explained that while the programme centres on PWDs, its key message is aimed at Deliveroo’s able-bodied riders who are on the roads daily. “Even though this programme is focused on PWDs, our key messaging is to our able-bodied riders, who are on the roads daily. They can act as a support system in times of need, especially for riders using PMAs. It brings a sense of understanding, where riders go ‘That’s how it’s done’ or ‘That’s how I can help’. We’re fostering a sense of inclusion—regardless of whether someone is using a motorcycle, bicycle, or PMA, everyone deserves to be treated equally and with respect on the road,” Bhola said.

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Deliveroo rider Noel, who participated in the workshop, echoed these sentiments. “As a Deliveroo rider, safety always comes to mind, but this workshop made us realised the specific difficulties faced by PWDs. Now, we’re more aware of how we can help, whether it’s giving way to them on the road or offering assistance when they encounter difficulties,” he said.

Beyond Rider Safety Month, Deliveroo continues to invest in rider welfare through collaborations with key community partners. The organisation has rolled out a series of ongoing initiatives, including the Singapore Civil Defence Force’s (SCDF) Responders Plus Programme, Red Cross First Aid and AED courses, and riding courses with the Singapore Cycling Federation and ComfortDelGro.

As Bhola concluded, “Continuous effort is key. We want our riders to feel empowered to make safe choices every day. Whether it’s reminding them to take a break when they feel unsafe or engaging them through these workshops, our goal remains the same: to make sure they get home safely.”