From left to right: Anglicare Case Worker Rebecca, excited new learner driver Jaiden, and trainer Linda at Carlton VicRoads.
Rebecca from Anglicare is a Youth Worker with a difference. She is passionate about what we does and it shows in her relationships with her clients and her ability to pivot.
Faced with an urgent need for her client Jaiden, to get his Victorian learner permit in order to take up an apprenticeship he'd been offered, Rebecca set to work.
Rebecca reaches out
She came across the Changing Gears program and contacted Linda Jane who explained that funding was available for programs occurring after July.
“That doesn’t suit Jaiden’s needs as he has already started an apprenticeship and his employer urgently requires him to get his learner permit,” Rebecca explained.
This swung Linda into action.
“Well, as a matter of fact, I may be able to help.” Linda replied.
BSL lends a helping hand
After a brief discussion with Brotherhood of Saint Laurence (BSL) staff member, Al Taf, the organisation graciously allowed Jaiden to join in a Changing Gears program they were delivering at their Broadmeadows offices.
Jaiden showed up on the first day of the course and was delighted to find himself on friendly territory.
Jaiden on familiar ground
"Hey, I remember this place, I used to be a client here!” Jaiden exclaimed. In fact, the young man remembered several of the staff there and quickly felt at home.
“It’s great that Jaiden is so comfortable,” Head Trainer Linda Jane enthused, “because when you feel safe and comfortable, it makes learning so much easier.”
Jaiden bore out the strength of her words by proving to be an extremely smart and motivated student. Although a little nervous on the fourth and final test day, Jaiden romped home with a terrific test score.
“Congratulations, you passed!” VicRoads team member Bromwyn beamed as she spoke, and it was high fives all round.
Rebecca is proud
Rebecca gave the young man a huge hug, “I so proud of you!” she cried.
“Thanks so much for all your help,” Jaiden told Linda, Rebecca, Al Taf and Bromwyn.
“Well,” Linda said, “if Rebecca had not moved so quickly and argued your case so effectively, I would not have had the pleasure of teaching you. It really was a partnership.”
Teamwork makes the dream work
And with this amazing achievement, the Changing Gears staff would like to thank Bromwyn at VicRoads, Al Taf at BSL and Rebecca at Anglicare for their hard work.
Together, they have ensured another young Victorian has their learner permit and is driving safely on the roads.
Jaiden at Carlton VicRoads.
Possibilities open up
Driving opens up so many possibilities for disadvantaged young people. Classes are supportive, students and trainers inspire each other, showing the way for young people to overcome their obstacles to driving and experience success.
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Call 1800 766 361 to find out more about Changing Gears.
Tags: #Anglicare, #Youth Services #inclusion, #driver education program, #community education program #safer roads #l plates, #learners permit, #road safety, #student driving program, # BSL Broadmeadows, #ChangingGears.
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