Congratulations to DriveAbility Scotland, the only Driving Mobility accredited centre in Scotland, who has officially opened its new headquarters in Glasgow — expanding access to driving and mobility assessments for people with disabilities across the country.
Founded in 2021 and now operating as an independent charity, DriveAbility Scotland provides clinically led assessments for drivers and passengers with medical conditions or disabilities, alongside driving tuition and mobility equipment advice. The new premises, grant-funded by the Motability Foundation, will enable the centre to meet growing demand and deliver outreach services more efficiently in Inverness, Aberdeen, and other rural areas.
The opening event was attended by key decision-makers and stakeholders in accessible transport, including representatives from Motability Operations, Police Scotland, DVLA, and Transport Scotland.
Andrew Swain, CEO of DriveAbility Scotland, said:
“Today could not have gone better. We’ve welcomed many partners, stakeholders, and service users to see our facilities for the first time. They’ve been very impressed, particularly with our new state-of-the-art vehicle simulator for specialist driving tuition. This new centre is vital for Scotland as it provides more equal access to our assessment services. We’re always striving to reduce travel times so people can begin their journey towards independent mobility more easily.”
Gavin Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Motability Operations, added:
“The opening of DriveAbility Scotland’s new headquarters is a great step forward for accessible mobility in Scotland. Hearing directly from drivers who’ve regained their independence really brings home why this work matters.”
Clients attending the event shared how the service has changed their lives. William Hendry, 71, said:
“I have been able to continue driving thanks to the incredible team at DriveAbility Scotland. They have been so caring and helpful throughout the whole process — they’ve reopened up my life.”
Another client, Iain Powrie, added:
“Being back on the road is just so incredibly satisfying and freeing. It’s allowed me to get back to seeing my family, friends, and work colleagues. It’s all about freedom.”
Chelsea Fleming, Programme Director at the Motability Foundation, concluded:
“At the Motability Foundation we want to build transport equity, so we are proud to have funded this fantastic new facility. DriveAbility Scotland provides an invaluable service in assessing disabled people’s driving and mobility needs, and these new premises will help increase access to their services.”
DriveAbility Scotland continues to seek further funding from the Scottish Government to sustain and develop its services, ensuring that more people across Scotland can benefit from safe, independent driving and outdoor mobility.
Learn more about DriveAbility Scotland’s work and services.