BERRY Street’s L2P program is urgently seeking volunteer mentors in the Greater Shepparton area to assist learner drivers between 16 and 21 years of age who do not have access to a supervising driver or vehicle, to gain the driving experience they require to obtain their probationary licence.
The program has been supporting disadvantaged learners for 13 years, and currently has a long waitlist of young people wanting to use the service. Each learner driver is matched with a trained volunteer mentor who support the learner to gain their 120 hours of driving experience which is a requirement under the Victorian Graduated Licencing System. Senior L2P Coordinator Jenni Bowles said “L2P supports learner drivers to gain their driving experience whilst building their confidence and safety on the roads to reduce the road toll”. Mrs Bowles commented there were additional benefits for the young person obtaining their licence, including improved employment opportunities, social connection and independence.
Mentors have use of a 5-star ANCAP rated vehicle along with training, they are also covered through the Berry Street Volunteer Insurance scheme. Mentors must be over the age of 21, have a full licence and can commit a minimum of 1 hour per week.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer mentor or would like further information can contact L2Phume@berrystreet.org.au or phone 03 5822 8100.
