From left to right facilitator Nikki with proud learner driver Luisa at VicRoads Broadmeadows.
Many NDIS participants deal with a number of challenges. Factors such as acquired brain injuries, mental health challenges and neurodiversity can mean even booking and attending a program such as Changing Gears is a challenge. But such factors did not daunt BSL Broadmeadows November 2024 program participants, Luisa and Phillip.
Both were ready and rearing to go and showed their motivation from the outset.
“Can you tell us the plan ?” Phillip asked.
Structure can be important
“No problem,” facilitator Nikki beamed. She understood the importance of structure and knowing what is happening next, both from a personal planning perspective and in order to tee up support coordinators to assist in transport to and from the program and VicRoads on the final day.
Nikki provided a detailed timeline to lower the participants’ anxiety levels in addition to creating lots of space and time for breaks and discussion. Phillip worked at a vigorous pace, whereas Luisa found her rhythm was far more laid back and there was ample room for each learning style.
Test day jitters
Both students were nervous on the day of the test.
“Are we going to pass?” they asked.
“You have put in all the necessary effort, so I am very sure you’ll receive a reward for all your hard work,” Nikki reassured them.
Sure enough, by the end of the test day, everyone was beaming. Both Philip and Luisa had achieved their goal of becoming proud learner drivers.
Family celebrations follow success
Family and support workers shared in the excited trip over to Broadmeadows VicRoads for the issuing of learner permits.
“Family, friends, support workers and VicRoads staff are a huge part of the successful completion of every program,” Nikki noted, “but most of all, this is about celebrating the achievements of our participants and letting them enjoy the pathway to freedom and indepence their hard work has brought them.”
BSL is a wonderful partner
Congratulations to both Luisa and Phillip and good luck on your driving journeys. Changing Gears would also like to give a huge shout out to the Brotherhood of Saint Laurence (BSL), for their wonderful venue and staff support.
Luisa (left) with her support worker outside VicRoads Broadmeadows.
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.
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