Borders to pay for advanced driver training

Posted on Tuesday December 30th, 2014

The Scottish Borders Council is providing financial backing to put more young drivers through the Institute of Advanced Motorists’ advanced driver course.

Any driver under 26 years of age living in the Borders can take part in the four-session scheme, sponsored by Scottish Borders Council.  Their £149 course fee is refunded in full when they pass, and there is also the potential for cheaper car insurance.

The scheme aims to cut the number of serious injuries and deaths involving young drivers on the region’s roads.  It has attracted interest from other councils in Scotland which are keen to start a similar scheme.

Last month, 14 young drivers passed the IAM scheme and received their certificates.

“Congratulations to the latest young motorists to have passed our advanced driver course,” IAM operations director Pat Doughty said.  “The course not only helps improve their skills and anticipation, but also confidence, which means driving can be a more enjoyable experience.  Over 400,000 have taken the advanced driver course across the UK so far."

Paul Richardson, SBC’s Community Safety Officer, added:  “These young people now have skills that ensure they will be safer drivers, which will benefit them for the rest of their lives.”