NEWLY qualified young drivers in Cumbria are being offered help to enhance their driving skills and stay safe behind the wheel.

Cumbria Road Safety Partnership (CRSP) is encouraging young people aged 17-24 who have recently passed their driving test to take up the Pass Plus scheme.

Pass Plus is delivered by approved local driving instructors and is designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of a newly-qualified driver, focusing on specific areas such as driving on motorways and night driving.

Young drivers who complete Pass Plus training can be eligible for discounts on their motor insurance.

Cllr Keith Little, Cumbria County Council Cabinet member for Highways, said: “The Pass Plus scheme is a great way for newly qualified drivers to stay safe and drive down their insurance costs. Pass Plus training helps new drivers cope with the challenges they’ll face on the road with greater confidence and I am pleased the Road Safety Partnership is once again subsidising this vital training for young drivers.”

Chris Broadbent, CRSP road safety co-ordinator, said: “Passing your driving test is just the first stage in learning to drive. Statistics nationally show young drivers are more at risk of being involved in a road collision than any other age group, largely because of their lack of experience behind the wheel.

“The Pass Plus scheme is a great way to develop your driving skills and we would like more young drivers to take up our offer of the Pass Plus subsidy, which is worth £100 per person. In Cumbria we estimate that currently 40% of young people aged 17-24, hold a full driving licence and are therefore eligible to receive the subsidy.”

Funding for the Pass Plus subsidy is limited and will be allocated to applicants on a first come, first served basis. To apply for your Pass Plus voucher, email passplus@cumbria.gov.uk