GAINING a driver’s licence is an exciting step to independence for young people, especially in country areas, but for some who don’t have access to a supervising driver or a suitable car, it can be difficult.
This is where The Salvation Army’s Drive for Life L2P Program comes in, with volunteer mentors who help young learners build up their driving hours and apply for their licence.
With four cars across the South Gippsland Shire, including in Loch, Leongatha, Mirboo North and Foster, learner drivers can gain access to both drivers and cars close to home.
But the program needs more volunteer mentors.
“First and foremost, we’re looking for people who’ve got calm and measured dispositions and demeanours. They’re not going to get too anxious or panic themselves in the car,” explained Stephen Harvy, Drive for Life/L2P Manager.
“Every young learner on the program will do half a dozen lessons with a proper driving instructor before they sit in the car with a supervisor.”
Mentors complete a free, one-day training course that provides technical and behavioural information on how to guide a young person as they learn to drive, as well as ongoing support.
“We bring our mentors and volunteers together once every few months, and we have gatherings to try and help them share their experiences and how they’re going about it,” said Stephen.
Mentors are paired with the same learner driver to build rapport and connection, and for consistency and continuity.
Arrangements can be made with the learner and booked in an online calendar.
“Mentors will book in a time, and they’ll pick up the car and then meet the young person, go for a drive, put the car back,” explained Stephen.
Mentors are asked to commit what time they can, ideally about one to two hours a week or fortnight, with other mentors available to fill in, in the event of holidays or illness, for example.
Steve added that all the learner drivers have a lived experience with disadvantage and face some barriers in order to be eligible for the program and are very grateful for the support and help received.
“I’ve had young people that have reached back to us when they finished who say it’s just absolutely lifesaving. It’s getting a licence, but it’s life-changing. It might mean the difference between them being able to get to certain employment or not, or to get to studies, or to just have independence,” said Stephen.
To make a difference and support young people in our community, contact the Drive for Life Co-Ordinator on 0461 441 080 or email: driveforlifel2pgipps@salvationarmy.org.au.
