Weds 19th June 2024
John Nicholson aims to change the lives of some of the most challenged young people in the community, with some of the most heart-rending stories to tell, encompassing abject poverty, abuse, relentless bullying, self-harm and even suicide attempts. With a similar story of his own, following a suicide attempt some years ago, he knows that offering hope is vital if people are going to change their lives.
Hope of gainful employment can often rely on having a full driving licence, but lacking the money or mental health to undertake driving lessons and pass a test make gaining such a licence virtually impossible to some. As a result, they either cannot gain employment, or they drive illegally and without appropriate training.
The Community Driving School, set up as a Community Interest Company, provides free lessons to vulnerable young people, enabling them to gain their licence in a safe and supportive environment. The CDS is the only driving school with a safeguarding policy, and aims to assure young people that they are in good hands.
The CDS has two instructors at the moment, and helps young people across Kent. But John is keen to expand their operation so they can provide their vital service across the country.
