A new learner driver program is delivering independence to Southern Highland youth with a focus on getting adolescence into employment and education.
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St Vincent de Paul Society, VolWing, Highlands Drivesafe and Moss Vale Motor Group have joined forces for the Passport to Independence program. Vinnies Youth Support Services identified one of the barriers for youths unable to access employment, and trade apprenticeships, was their inability to obtain a driver licence. To obtain a P1 drivers licence, 120 hours of supervised driving is required and can be difficult if a family or support network doesn’t have their full licence, or own a car.
Senior Youth Engagement Specialist at Vinnies Bowral Youth Refuge, Karen Zelinsky said, “We believe young people, particularly those experiencing homelessness and disadvantage, should be given the opportunity to believe in themselves and have support to take positive actions for their own futures.”
“Obtaining a drivers licence increases the potential for young people to access work and study, promotes social engagement and provides a boost of self confidence and future goal setting,” she said.
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Beneficiaries of the program, Alix and Kyah explained how they advanced from this opportunity.
“This program built my confidence up in driving and I gained necessary skills to go for my driving test,” Alix said. “I never really had anyone constant in my life to help me get my hours up and it feels good to be able to finally get my P plates”.
“Getting my driver’s licence means absolutely everything to me,” Kyah said. “I am currently working and driving will help me progress within my work. I also have a son and having my licence will help me support him so that I can take him to his therapy and school.”
The program is committed to 15 young people having access to driving lessons at no cost, in the first 12 months.
A Moss Vale Motor Group spokesperson said they were happy to be a part of the Learner Driver Program and be able to provide disadvantaged young adults the ability to learn to drive in a professional and experienced environment.
Meanwhile a Wingecarribee Volunteer Centre spokesperson said the program was an opportunity for young adults experiencing disadvantage in the Highlands to get behind the wheel and on the road to worthwhile careers.