On the Coast – Over 55 Issue 34 I March/February 2020 | Page 28

120 Countdown Program The 120 Countdown program connects learner drivers with volunteers who mentor and supervise them while they complete the required 120 hours of driving experience they need to be able to take their driving test for the P1 licence. The social and economic benefits of the 120 Countdown program are huge and here on the Central Coast we hope to have many community members gain their provisional licence, achieve independence, gain employment and become a contributing member of our community. The program is available to members of community, such as young mothers, sole parents, young people, families with young children, unemployed people, low income earners, senior citizens, culturally and linguistically diverse people, Indigenous Australians and people with a disability, that are finding it difficult to get ahead and tend to experience social exclusion because of transport issues. Here on the Central Coast we know that public transport isn’t always accessible throughout our communities and getting a licence is not always easy. At Uniting, we want to help bridge this gap, by connecting good drivers in our community to those who are working towards a provisional licence. Obtaining a provisional licence is not 28 O N T H E C OA S T – OV ER 5 5 the only program goal, our volunteer mentors are there to guide our learners along the way, helping them to build confidence and adopt safe driving practices. Our volunteers can benefit from being part of a program that can lead to disadvantaged members of the community obtaining a new freedom to say ‘yes’ to opportunities. The program gives our dedicated mentor volunteers the opportunity to give something back and pass on their wisdom to people in their local community. It’s also rewarding for both parties to make new social connections within their community. We have created tools to ensure all mentors and learners are as prepared as possible before hitting the road. Uniting provides a fully maintained and insured vehicle and relevant volunteer training and support. Volunteer mentors and learner drivers can get in touch by contacting our Customer Service team on: 1800 864 846 or email [email protected] https://uniting.org/who-we-help/for- adults/120-countdown