The Southern Rural Education Activities Drive My Life initiative in Clutha has options for volunteer driving mentors.
The programme assists local people of all ages to clear the obstacles in obtaining a driver’s licence, such as limited access to a vehicle, low confidence, or challenges with the application process.
Participants are usually referred by local groups including Plunket, Police and high schools.
‘‘A driver’s licence gives people real options,’’ programme co-ordinator Rachel Harrison said.
‘‘It means they can get to a job interview, take their kids to school or visit whānau without relying on others — that independence is life-changing.’’
Mentors are ordinary drivers who need only to be a full New Zealand driver’s licence holder for at least two years, pass police vetting and show competent driving skills to an instructor.
Each mentor is matched with a learner to offer supervised practice for as little as an hour per week in a vehicle supplied by the programme.
‘‘We work around the volunteer’s availability,’’ Mrs Harrison said.
‘‘Some mentor once a week, others fortnightly.
‘‘Every hour helps someone move closer to their goal.’’
Drivers interested in upskilling their community can learn more and get in touch through Drive My Life Clutha’s website or social media channels.
‘‘Learning to drive’s been a journey,’’ recent programme graduate Annie Maggay said.
‘‘I’m really grateful to Rachel, who became my driving tutor and helped me build my skills and confidence behind the wheel.’’
‘‘[Now] I can drive to school and look for a job. It makes me feel great because I have been more helpful to my parents, who are both busy with work and I can get groceries for them.’’
By volunteering a small amount of time weekly, mentors support others in gaining essential independence through driving.
