GAINING a drivers license 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 license.
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.” 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 license, 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.
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