120 Driver countdown
to catch a cool breeze.
“We now ask that people reconsider this and warn that criminals will take any opportunity to commit crime,” he said. THE recent spike in the road toll coupled with a rise in road smashes with serious injuries has put driver training right into the spotlight.
While the talkfests continue at various levels, Uniting is making good common-sense stuff happen on the ground, running its 120 Driver Countdown program which finds volunteer mentors to give some hours in the passenger seat to help learner drivers get their mandatory experience.
Co-ordinator Margaret-ann Mould said there was a high demand from applicants that need assistance with driving to get their P’s.
“They may not have a family vehicle to drive, the majority have no one to drive with them due to not having a licence, or they may be on their P’s or have no time to drive or finances to pay for petrol,” Margaret-ann said.
“Some may have moved out of home and have no family support, some applicants have only just gained their L’s and have no hours so will be in the program for 12 months. Others have some hours, but circumstances have changed, and others have had their licence for a long time with not many hours.”
She says the majority of applicants say that getting a license is important for independence, employment and so they don’t have to walk everywhere.
“Volunteer mentors are needed in Wellington and Dubbo. The more volunteers we have, the more people we can assist get their licence. We provide training and support to all volunteers and regular contact is maintained,” Margaret-ann said.
A volunteer information session will be held at Uniting Church Hall, corner of Church St and Carrington Ave, tonight (Thursday, March 1) at 6pm. If you’re interested in volunteering or finding out about the program, please contact Margaret Ann on 0409 316 053.
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