Driving for Change

Shaping Safer Drivers. Changing Futures.

Driving for Change is ELY Memorial Fund’s next evolution in young driver education — building on the success of our Young Driver Experience (YDE) and tailoring it for drivers aged 18–25, the group most at risk on our roads.

Why Driving for Change Matters

The risk facing young drivers remains stark. In 2024, eight young people aged 17–24 lost their lives on the roads across the West Mercia area, with a further 75 suffering serious, life-changing injuries.

Three of those deaths occurred in Herefordshire alone.

These are not just statistics — they represent families, friends and communities whose lives are changed forever. Driving for Change was created to respond to this reality.

From Awareness to Responsibility

Delivered in partnership with Minerva Elite Performance, Driving for Change is designed for young adults who are already driving or about to — focusing on:

Real-world decision-making
Responsibility behind the wheel
Risk awareness and consequence
Behaviour, mindset and accountability

The programme moves beyond theory, encouraging honest conversation and reflection about everyday driving choices and the impact they can have.

The first Driving for Change workshop took place at NMITE Hereford in autumn 2025, where students engaged in challenging but constructive discussions around road safety, risk and responsibility. Feedback confirmed the value of creating a space where young drivers can build practical skills alongside a deeper understanding of their role in keeping themselves — and others — safe.

Campaigning for Safer Roads in Herefordshire

ELY’s objective is simple: to increase road safety across Herefordshire and reduce road traffic collisions involving young drivers.

With the continued support of education providers, local organisations and delivery partners, Driving for Change enables ELY to extend its proven approach to those at greatest risk — helping to create a new generation of more aware, responsible and safer drivers.

By meeting young people where they are now, we continue to campaign for safer roads, stronger communities, and fewer families facing unimaginable loss.

To find out more, or enquire about holding a Driving for Change workshop please contact hugs4u@ely-memorial-fund.org.uk