Andrew Bridgen MP supports driving initiative for young disabled people
Local MP Andrew Bridgen is urging all young people with disabilities to attend the Get Going Live! Event this Saturday 14th July. The event offers free driving days for aspirational disabled drivers, and help to get behind the wheel.
Young drivers with disabilities are helping other young aspirational drivers to gain their first experience of accessible driving, with a view to gaining their provisional licence at the age of 16.
On the programme at three upcoming Get Going Live! free one-day driving events for young people with disabilities and anyone newly-disabled, are informal ‘Ask the Driver’ sessions led by young disabled people who have been through the process.
At the first of these - at the Donington Park Launch Pad, Derbyshire on Saturday 14 July – 18 year old Henrietta Freeman and 20 year old Stephanie Leaf will share their experiences that include finding an instructor with specialist knowledge, choosing the right vehicle and adaptations, available schemes and general motoring hints and tips.
Both girls went to the inaugural 2011 Get Going Live! event – also held at Donington Park – and are now ambassadors for these events.
“Get Going Live! opened my eyes to what is out there to help you,” says Stephanie. “Whoever you are, whatever disability you have, I really recommend going. If you are over 14 you can test drive adapted vehicles there in a safe environment accompanied by an experienced instructor. There are people there who really want to help you, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
Vehicles lined up on the test drive grid include a range of models from Citroën, Ford, Nissan, Peugeot, SEAT, Vauxhall and VW all fitted with a variety of adaptations.
At the Autoadapt driver test station you can be assessed to see how quickly you are able to apply force and react quickly, which helps to determine which adaptations you will need to drive safely and comfortably.
If you are under 14 you are welcome to practise transferring and exploring the controls and may also travel as a passenger with an instructor. Plus experts will explain all you need to know to begin to learn to drive.
As well as test driving there is a fun action-packed programme of activities throughout the day that include a 7m all-accessible climbing wall with over 20 routes to the top, all-ability cycling, rallying with Loughborough Car Club and SK Motorsport.
Other 2012 Get Going Live! days are 28 July Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate and 11 August TRL Wokingham, Berkshire.
Don’t miss it! Register now at www.getgoingnow.org
