Drive safer for longer with GOLD

Have you been driving a long time? Are you less confident on the road than you used to be? Would you like to brush up on your driving skills?

Designed to keep people driving safer for longer, our Guidance for Older Driver (GOLD) scheme offers tailored sessions aimed at refreshing skills and increasing confidence for over 55s.

Local TV presenter Carol Bundock, 59, who is backing our GOLD campaign, shares her experience:

“When Norfolk County Council asked if I would be the figurehead for their Older Driver Campaign, my feelings were mixed. Me, an older driver? Surely not! And what had they heard about my driving that made them think I needed to improve?

“However, my fears were dispelled when I learned more about GOLD. The core of the campaign is a one-hour driver development session with a qualified instructor – in my case Matt – looking at how you drive and what improvements, if any, you could make.

“Using my own car, Matt was keen to stress it wasn’t a test. He said older drivers have a wealth of driving experience but it’s important to refresh skills and make sure no niggling bad habits turn that experience into bad driving.

“After my hour’s refresher, I’m happy to report I had received some good advice and I would thoroughly recommend it to anyone who might have any worries about their driving. After all, our cars have MOTs – this is just like one for the driver.”

GOLD can offer reassurance with any areas of concern including:

• Night driving

• Dealing with junctions and roundabouts

• Recognising and understanding road signs

• Eyesight

• Medication

The cost of a session is just £29.

How to take part in GOLD

Drivers can:

• Apply to take part themselves

• Be referred by their doctor or health professional

• Be referred by a family member