For many individuals, getting their driver’s licence is an essential step toward greater independence and employment opportunities.
Recognizing this need, Ryan Barber, a patient educator in Rehabilitation Services, has been supporting clients at the HERO Centre and the North Simcoe Youth Wellness Hub in their efforts to prepare for the G1 driving test.
Not having your driver’s licence can be a major barrier to getting a job or a variety of other things in the community. It’s also just liberating in terms of providing transportation options.
Ryan Barber, Patient Educator
While Barber has been able to guide clients toward local driver’s education programs, he noted many face challenges such as anxiety about driving or a lack of support at home to help them practise. To help address these barriers, Rehabilitation Services obtained a driving simulator about three months ago. Equipped with a steering wheel, pedals and a gear shift, the simulator offers clients a hands-on way to reinforce their knowledge of road rules.
It’s not the real thing, but it’s giving our clients a chance to actually practise those road rules that they’re reading about in the book.
Ryan Barber, Patient Educator
Since its introduction, around eight clients have taken advantage of the simulator, using it as an educational tool to build confidence and skills before they get behind the wheel for real. As part of Rehab Services’ employment preparation mandate, this initiative is helping empower clients on their road to increased independence and mobility.