The NETT Safety Driving course is run jointly by NETT (Nationwide Ethnic Transport Training) and Sheffield Futures, teaching young people, referred by youth workers, to drive safely and legally.
Tutor, Norman Mason, says a lot of the young people who attend, were taught to drive in other countries at a young age by their relations, and don’t realise that doesn’t allow them to drive here. One boy thought the fact that he had held a provisional licence for three years entitled him to drive.
Ali Ahmed, age 20, has been driving since he was 14, when he committed his first offence, but now he wants to be legal. Mohammed, now age 19, started driving in the Yemen at 13, came to Britain aged 17 and immediately received his first offence. Both of them would encourage others to do the course.
“I want to be legit and get insurance. It’s important.” said Ali.
Burngreave police officers, Simon Leake and Paul Wilson, explained to the group the effects of driving without a licence, tax or insurance – court and even a prison sentence for persistent re-offenders. The police are very supportive of the course, saying it’s important to get licences and stay legal.
Unfortunately, young people are still the main target for police to stop.
The course is a pilot scheme but NETT hopes it will continue. It runs for two days a week for two months, with one day for practical driving lessons, and the other studying for theory tests and looking at other safety issues.
Participants also study English and maths and receive a certificate upon completion.
“Once they’ve realised that they can drive legally, their lives can move on from constant confrontations with the police and appearances in court to being a normal everyday driver.” said Norman.
If you’re interested in this course or any of the other driving courses that NETT runs, please contact NETT on 244 4139 or email@netttraining.org.uk or Amin Kassim from Sheffield Futures on 0776 691 5693 or email amin.kassim@sheffieldfutures.org.uk.
by Gaby Spinks