Why I chose my feature "Licence to freedom"

Licence to Freedom was an idea that came to me after researching what a Graduate Driving Licence scheme is. It ultimately led me to ask the question of what teenage me would say, having passed my driving test, to be met with more restrictions?

That was when I looked into statistics on how newly qualified drivers are often involved in car collisions. Finding out that one in five end up in a crash within a year of passing their test was truly eye-opening to me.

That was when I decided to talk to those who have experienced firsthand how dangerous a car can be in the hands of a teen. Currently in the UK, a 17-year-old can pass their driving test without a set number of hours of lessons.

For many teenagers and their parents, this is a great way to gain independence. No more taxi services for parents. I can remember driving to college with my friends, and being able to drive myself to work felt so freeing.

However, for many parents, their worst nightmare has come true. Losing their child in a road collision had led to a campaign for safer licenses, which would limit the age of passengers in a car, a curfew for driving at night, limit drinking alcohol or a ban, as well as other limitations.

Many bereaved parents are now calling for the government to impose restrictions on young, newly qualified drivers. This was rejected earlier this year, with many saying it restricts the independence of many drivers.

This is where the Licence to Freedom idea was born. The debate seems so divisive. With many wanting to repay the favour by giving their friends a lift, but at what cost?

I am excited to share who I have spoken to soon. Keep your eyes peeled for more!

Licence to Freedom logo - the feature exploring the GDL debate

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