SEAT’S Young Driver programme is broadening its appeal by being made available to disabled youngsters.
By the end of this month, young wheelchair users aged 11 years and above will be able to take driving lessons with Young Driver.
The lessons, run by qualified ADI driving instructors, will be in SEAT Ibiza models equipped with DSG gearboxes and fitted with hand and dual controls.
Lessons will start in Birmingham, Sheffield and Brent Cross on Thursday, October 27, and will then roll out to all eleven SEAT Young Driver venues nationwide.
The move to expand the programme has been welcomed by Sophie Morgan, the television presenter and former reality TV contestant on BBC3’s Britain’s Missing Top Model.
Sophie, 26, who was paralysed in a car accident at the age of 18, said: “Having had a road accident shortly after passing my driving test, which left me paralysed for life, I wholeheartedly encourage any initiative aiming to help young drivers be better prepared for the road and, accordingly, lower the chance of accidents.
“I also support and actively encourage the enabling of other young disabled people to drive. The independence and empowerment of having a driving licence cannot be underestimated and it is fantastic that SEAT and Admiral are providing young disabled people with such a valuable experience.”
SEAT Young Driver, sponsored by insurance company Admiral, has already delivered more than 25,000 lessons to young people, including those with disabilities such as autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, profound deafness and visual impairment.
Kim Stanton of SEAT Young Driver said: “There is overwhelming evidence that early driving experience cuts accidents among young drivers by 40 per cent.”
More info from www.youngdriver.eu