Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

A cheap price to pay to stay safe.

A successful scheme which supports older drivers to continue to use their car safely and with confidence has been re-launched in Wiltshire.

SAGE (Safer Driving with Age) is being managed by Wiltshire Council and provides people, particularly older drivers, with advice and training about how best to use their car safely. Alternative forms of transport will be explored if the use of the car is no longer appropriate for the person taking the course.

A SAGE assessment includes a short driving session of approximately 40 minutes and a discussion and debrief after the drive with the instructor making any suggestions that would help improve the person's driving. The total session time is 1– 1½ hours on roads the drivers normally use, in their local area and driving their own vehicle. There is the option to use the instructor's car which could incur an extra charge. The programme is aimed at improving safety for older drivers, but can be adapted to suit drivers of any age.

People can apply for the £35 assessment by completing an application form available on the council’s website or at their local doctors surgery.