With funding from the Government, the charity Driving Mobility is introducing new training for staff at mobility scooter and powered wheelchair showrooms so more customers buy products that they can drive safely.

This new voluntary scheme is being launched in June as the number of scooters and powerchairs is on the rise. With more products being driven on the road and pavement, retailers need to make sure they are matching vehicles with customer capabilities and advising on the Highway Code. The new ‘PWMS Retailer Training Scheme’ will offer, for the first time, a consistent and approved way of providing mobility scooters or powerchairs.

Once trained, suppliers will be officially accredited by The Department for Transport and Driving Mobility – the national charity which is running the scheme. Consumers will then be able to pick retailers that display these credentials which will provide confidence and peace of mind.

Up until now there has never been a standardised way to assess the needs of mobility scooter and powerchair customers or provide safe driving guidance. In addition, there continues to be several grey areas of understanding when it comes to the law regarding mobility vehicle use on the highway. Safe driver training has also been inconsistent across the UK whereas if retailers sign up to the new scheme, they will be able to apply expertise from Driving Mobility’s Occupational Therapists.

Driving Mobility Centres work with the DVLA, Motability, NHS and the Police to offer ‘fitness to drive’, equipment and accessible travel assessments for people with restricted mobility. Qualified healthcare professionals at several centres will be providing the PWMS training so retail staff can benefit from a better understanding of customer medical conditions and capabilities now and in the future. With this knowledge the scheme aims to ensure that the right vehicle is supplied to the right person, so competent and considerate driving is possible. Add to this the latest, easy to remember road safety advice, drivers should benefit from a more positive ownership experience whilst protecting other highway users.

Edward Trewhella, CEO at Driving Mobility concludes by saying: “Alongside the Department for Transport, we are aware that the way people are travelling is changing especially with increased ownership of mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs. In response we completed a successful pilot last year which underlined the need for a retailer training scheme. Our launch is timely and promises to enhance road safety for all through more suitable mobility vehicle provision and greater awareness of the Highway Code.”

Roads and Accessibility Minister Richard Holden said: “It’s really important that we improve road safety for everyone, including owners of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters. This scheme, supported by Government, will help to ensure that people with restricted mobility can get around independently and confidently by training users, and I’m pleased to support it through our funding.”

For further information email: info@drivingmobility.org.uk

#MyDrivingMobility

It is with great sadness that we have to report that Wessex DriveAbility, with its main centre in Southampton and outreach centres at Salisbury, Basingstoke and Ferndown, will cease operations on 31^st March 2023. This closure is primarily due to the prevailing economic conditions. Driving Mobility will be redirecting their service users and referrals to surrounding centres at Weymouth, Yeovil, Leatherhead and Worthing while new centres are set up in the south central region to support our client base more locally.

 

#MyDrivingMobility

Driving Mobility to help young disabled drivers get independent at Kidz Middle

Driving Mobility, the national charity that provides specialist driving and mobility assessment centres, will be exhibiting at Kidz to Adultz Middle to help young disabled people get mobile.

Kidz to Adultz Middle, Thursday 16^th March 2023, 9:30am – 4:30pm, Coventry Building Society Arena, Coventry. CV6 6AQ. Free entry and parking. Driving Mobility stand – CZ9.

The national charity Driving Mobility coordinates a network of 20+ centres, many with outreach facilities, which provide ‘fitness to drive’ and mobility equipment assessments. Supported by The Department for Transport, Approved Driving Instructors (ADI) and Occupational Therapists (OT) guide and support young individuals who self-refer or are signposted from the DVLA, Motability, Police and NHS. Every member is committed to enabling people, of all ages, so they can remain independent whether driving an adapted vehicle, using assistive equipment or travelling by accessible transport. 

Young disabled drivers are permitted to gain their provisional licence a year early, at 16, if they receive the enhanced rate mobility component of PIP. Driving Mobility centres help these drivers through a range of services including:

• Driving assessments to ascertain the right adapted vehicles and controls
• Complete guidance from obtaining a licence to passing a test
• Specialist adapted driving tuition – practical and theory
• Expert help with transfers and mobility equipment

For younger clients and parents, Driving Mobility centres also offer the following services, again on display at Kidz Middle:

• Assessment, advice and fitting of specialist car seats for children with disabilities
• Advice on paediatric powered wheelchairs

Alongside vehicle related services, the charity provides guidance for travelling on public transport with a disability. From accessible buses, trains and planes through to community transport, the Hubs Mobility Advice Service, operated by Driving Mobility, is a unique service provided by 15 of its UK centres. There is also the Tryb4ufly advice service specifically for air travel with a disability. 

 

#MyDrivingMobility

Occupational Therapists from Driving Mobility, the national charity which coordinates driving assessment centres with the Department for Transport, will be offering ‘express’ on-stand CPD seminars at the OT Show. (Stand L30 NEC, 23^rd and 24^th November 2022).

The CPD schedule is as follows:

 

1. ‘Maintaining independent mobility’

Dates and times:        23^rd Nov – 11:30-11:45 and 14:30-14:45

                                    24^th Nov – 11:30-11:45 and 14:30-14:45

Speakers:                   Jaqueline Guerin, Occupational Therapist

David Blythe, General Manager, William Merritt Centre

Synopsis:
These CPD sessions will outline how Driving Mobility assessments identify physical and cognitive client abilities, with a view to maintaining or regaining safe driving.  Each assessment establishes a person’s fitness-to-drive relative to specific medical conditions and is carried out by qualified OTs and Approved Driving Instructors.

 

Learning outcomes:

• Delegates will reflect on the role of occupational therapy within driving
• Greater appreciation of the link between driving and independence
• Consideration of the practical elements of a driving assessment ie. cognitive skills and physical function
• Develop greater understanding of vehicle adaptions and support to remain driving

 

 

2. ‘Safe Travels – car seat options for children with additional needs’

Dates and times:        23^rd Nov – 10:30-10:45 and 12:30-12:45

Speaker:                     Clare Jones, Occupational Therapist

Synopsis: Led by an OT with specialist paediatric knowledge, this CPD topic will explore potential in-vehicle equipment for children with additional needs including challenging behaviour.

 

 

Learning outcomes:

• Understanding how specific equipment can provide safe travel for children with postural and mobility challenges
• Exploration of moving and handling options
• Knowledge regarding the Motability Scheme, wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) and vehicle adaptations for passengers
• Awareness of Driving Mobility Centres which offer car seat assessments

 

 

3. ‘The Power of Early Powered Mobility’

Dates and times:        24th Nov – 10:30-10:45 and 12:30-12:45

Speaker:                     Kate El Bizanti, Occupational Therapist

Synopsis: This CPD session will increase knowledge regarding the benefits of early powered mobility in children with disabilities. The national Bugzi powered wheelchair loan scheme, provided by Driving Mobility, will be highlighted within the presentation.

 

Learning outcomes:

• Clinical evidence that demonstrates the importance of early powered mobility
• Understanding that powered mobility for young children is more than learning wheelchair skills
• Increased accessibility to early powered mobility though our ‘new school squads’

 

 

Also, on the stand

To complement the educational content, the Driving Mobility stand will encompass displays that highlight the range of services available at its centres. These will include:

• A driving simulator, to understand the clinical assessment process
• Adapted driving controls
• Details on the new Hubs Mobility Service
• Mobility scooter assessments
• Paediatric car seats
• Bugzi powerchair for children

 

https://www.drivingmobility.org.uk/

 

#MyDrivingMobility

Supported by The Department for Transport, Driving Mobility, the national charity that provides specialist driving assessment centres, will be offering expert guidance for all young drivers and passengers at Kidz-to-Adultz-North.

1^st November 2022, 9.30am – 4.30pm. Manchester Central, Manchester, M2 3GX. Stand V1.

Driving Mobility centres primarily provide ‘fitness to drive’ assessments for all ages however they also offer a range of additional services including mobility equipment guidance and ‘Hubs’ accessible travel information. Children, young adults and families can all benefit from discussing assisted transport needs with Driving Mobility Occupational Therapists and Approved Driving Instructors who signpost towards the most appropriate solutions From tuition for provisional drivers who may have a disability and advice regarding vehicle adaptations, through to clinical car seat recommendations, paediatric powerchair loans and tips for air travel, Driving Mobility offers the most comprehensive service for accessible and inclusive mobility.

At Kidz North, Driving Mobility will be presenting:

‘Safe travels – Car seat options for children with additional needs’

Room 2, 11:00am. Presented by Mary Yates, Occupation Therapist and
Paediatric Lead, Driving Mobility/RDAC

This seminar will provide information on current UK legislation for children travelling in vehicles with mainstream products. It will explore available equipment for children with additional needs including challenging behaviour.

Learning objectives:

• Knowledge of current legislation 
• Awareness of current mainstream car seat options
• Awareness of the additional needs and possible solutions for children with postural and mobility needs
• Awareness of options for moving children with challenging behaviour 
• Information about the Motability Scheme, vehicle adaptations for passengers and wheelchair accessible vehicles 
• Details of Driving Mobility Centre which offers car seat assessment

Mary will also be available on stand V1 alongside other Driving Mobility representatives to answer individual queries regarding car seats. The team will also explain how teenagers, if they have a disability, can apply for their provisional licence from aged 16 and how specialist support can help them through the process of passing their test and beyond. Easier access in and out vehicles and transportable wheelchairs and boot hoists will also be topics for discussion.

 

#MyDrivingMobility

Since the centre opened last July a large and growing number of disabled people have benefited from the services it offers. Based in Glasgow, DriveAbility Scotland is the latest driving assessment centre to open as part of the national Driving Mobility charity network.

Driving Mobility coordinates a network of over 20 centres in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, many with outreach facilities, which provide ‘fitness to drive’ and mobility equipment assessments. Supported by The Department for Transport (DfT), Driving Mobility Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) and Occupational Therapists (OTs) guide and support individuals who self-refer or are signposted from the DVLA, Motability, Police and NHS. Every member is committed to enabling people with restricted mobility so they can remain independent whether driving an adapted vehicle, using assistive equipment or travelling by accessible transport. 

Driving Mobility’s latest centre, DriveAbility Scotland, will now provide services for Scottish people. Previously nearby centres in northern England, could not be accessed due to NHS commissioning rules and the DfT having no jurisdiction in Scotland. The centre has a fleet of dual controlled cars with various specialist driving and control adaptations so drivers and passengers can be assessed and given recommendations. The small specialist team has been carefully selected to offer friendly, professional advice, enhanced by clinical expertise, to ensure the best possible outcome for clients. The opening of the centre has been made possible by the support of Allied Vehicles, the respected vehicle adaptation specialist.

Edward Trewhella, CEO, Driving Mobility, is delighted with this new service as he comments: “DriveAbility Scotland represents an exciting expansion of our driving assessments and a first for the charity. We are continually focused on bringing our services closer to everyone, especially as Driving Mobility’s role is now more vital than ever before. We strive to ensure freedom, inclusivity and safety for all with restricted mobility – now possible in Scotland.”  

Charity funded DriveAbility Scotland provides the following services to people, of all ages, who have a disability or live with a life changing condition/injury:

• Driving assessments
• Driver/passenger access and seating assessments
• Specialist driving tuition
• Recommendations regarding accessible vehicles and adaptations

Gerry Facenna, owner of Allied Vehicles Group in Glasgow, has stepped in to help save the city’s only facility providing driving assessments for disabled drivers. He is donating a total of £7,500 to DriveAbility Scotland, part of national charity Driving Mobility, which oversees all such centres in the UK. “We are proud to have been manufacturing wheelchair accessible vehicles for nearly 30 years, helping to ensure the independence of people with disabilities.”, said Gerry.

“Hopefully this funding, which will be delivered over the next five months, will give DriveAbility Scotland breathing space to look to its longer-term stability”. Gerry’s donation through his company’s charity arm, Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, has highlighted funding disparities for these facilities in Scotland and across the UK.

DriveAbility Scotland is located at 75 Hawthorn Street, Glasgow. G22 6HY.

Tel: 0141 648 8470 Email: info@driveabilityscotland.org.uk

Stephen Mains, 66 and retired HGV driver from Stockton, has been able to regain his driving independence following a stroke thanks to the support of Driving Mobility and a grant from Motability.

Driving Mobility is a national charity supported by The Department for Transport that co-ordinates a network of driving and mobility assessment centres across the UK. These 21 centres, many with outreach facilities, provide ‘fitness to drive’ assessments for clients that self-refer and are signposted from DVLA, Motability, the NHS and Police. Helping drivers with disabilities to regain or maintain independence is achieved by professional advice regarding appropriate vehicle adaptations and mobility equipment. The Newcastle Driving Mobility Centre is based in the Walkergate Park Hospital Centre for Neuro-Rehabilitation and Neuro-Psychiatry and operates as an NHS department with the Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust. This Centre were instrumental in supporting Stephen so he could return to driving after a stroke in 2020 – assisted by free assessments, lessons and vehicle steering adaptations funded by the Driving Assessment Grant (DAG).

The DAG has been made possible by Motability, the national charity that helps keep disabled people mobile through its vehicle and equipment leasing scheme. To help individuals not currently using the scheme or who do not qualify, Motability awarded Driving Mobility £50,000 to pilot this grant programme which has proven extremely successful.

Stephen is one of the latest drivers to benefit and tells his story: “When I had my stroke, I really thought my driving days were over, I was so upset in the hospital as I’d lost function in my right hand. I had to give up my licence until I was deemed safe to be back on the road so was directed to the Newcastle Driving Mobility Centre. I was quite anxious before my driving assessment but the team there were so fantastic, they really did all they could to put me at ease. They recommended I used a steering aid called a ‘Lodgesons lollipop’ so I could steer with one hand and use its buttons for controlling things like the indicators and wipers. I was assessed driving around the block a few times with this kit however they concluded I needed driving lessons to get more proficient with this new way of driving. Well only after 11 hours of tuition I went back to the centre and passed! Kirsten and Neal at the centre were amazing, so encouraging all the way through.”

Now driving again full time, Stephen’s independence is making a huge difference to him and his wife, Lesley Ann, as he concludes: “I can’t tell you how grateful we are for getting me back behind the wheel. I’m over the moon! Without the support of the Newcastle Driving Mobility centre and the grant from Motability, I’d have never been able to drive again. Our first journey was a trip to Redcar to see the coast and enjoy an ice cream. It has been so long since we have been able to visit the seaside. It was so wonderful to see the sea and countryside again and we want to say a big, big thank you to everyone at Driving Mobility and Motability who has helped me get back on the road. I do hope my story helps inspire other people with disabilities…I say to everyone ‘go for it!’.”

 

#MyDrivingMobility

Hampton in Arden’s RDAC, a driving assessment centre and part of the Driving Mobility network, has had the honour of a visit from Chris Heaton-Harris MP, Minister of State for Transport.

Supported by The Department for Transport (DfT), the national charity Driving Mobility oversees a network of centres across the UK that provide a range of driving and mobility assessment services so individuals with restricted mobility can gain or retain independence. Service users can self-refer or are signposted to centres, such as those operated by RDAC, from the DVLA, Motability, NHS and the Police. Their main ‘fitness to drive’ assessments are complemented by additional services including mobility scooter assessments and advice on using accessible public transport – all focused on facilitating inclusion and reducing social isolation.

On arrival at RDAC’s headquarters, Mr Heaton-Harris MP was greeted by Edward Trewhella, CEO of Driving Mobility, and Sean Barratt, CEO of RDAC. Representatives from the DfT’s Accessible and Inclusive Travel Division; the Manager for the Mobility Centres of England, Sue Rogers MBE; and Head of Equalities and Inclusion, Faith Wilkinson were also in attendance.

Sean Barratt opened by saying: “RDAC were privileged to represent Driving Mobility and other assessment centres in hosting a visit from the minister”. A tour of the recently built RDAC Head Office followed where Sean Barratt explained how the Government is continuing to support Driving Mobility Centres so they can support greater equality and opportunities for disabled and older people.

Stephen Dent, Head of Assessments and Education at RDAC, exhibited a variety of accessible and adapted vehicles whilst giving the Minister an overview of driving adaptations, vehicle access solutions and drive-from-wheelchair options. This was then followed by demonstrations from RDAC’s Clare Jones, Head of Assessments and Research. She showcased paediatric assessment equipment that enables disabled children and families to achieve a better quality of life. Solutions included specialist car seats, innovative paediatric powered wheelchairs and the TryB4UFly service which provides advice on air travel with a disability.

To complete the visit, Amy Leddington, Head of Marketing and Business Operations, talked through the client journey after assessment and how the launch of the new RDAC Driving School and HUBs pilot project complete a full circle of support. Kirsty Flint, Occupational Therapist and HUBS Programme for East Riding and Greater Manchester, reiterated Amy’s message by expressing how invaluable the HUBs service has been for people with disabilities. The HUBs scheme, funded by the DfT, was launched in 2019 to provide information and support about transport options for individuals who were advised against continuing to drive.

Minister Chris Heaton-Harris concluded by saying: “Disability should never be a barrier to independence, and it was a pleasure to see and support the vital work being done at RDAC. Visiting the centre underlined to me how important it is that our transport network is truly accessible, ensuring everyone can travel with confidence again following the pandemic.”

 

#MyDrivingMobility

Supported by The Department for Transport, Driving Mobility, the charity that coordinates a national network of driving assessment centres, will be presenting its range of mobility services at Kidz-to-Adultz-North exhibition (The Exhibition Centre Liverpool, 17th November 2021, stand V34, Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront).

Organised by the charity Disabled Living, Kidz-to-Adultz-North is a free-to-attend exhibition which provides a showcase for all the latest products and services to assist children and young adults with disabilities. This is the first physical Disabled Living event to take place since the start of the pandemic and will offer a unique opportunity for all disabled visitors, families and healthcare professionals. Part of the diverse range of stands on show, the Driving Mobility team will be advising how individuals gain or maintain independence whilst working closely with their Occupational Therapists. Visit the stand and find out why assessments by qualified Driving Mobility clinicians is vital.

Driving Mobility accredits over 20 main centres across the UK, many with outreach facilities, which provide professional support and driving assessments for young disabled people who wish to learn or retain the ability to drive. Individuals aged 16+ with a qualifying disability can self-refer or seek recommendation to Driving Mobility services via the DVLA, Motability and the NHS. Once a provisional licence application is complete, Occupational Therapists and ADIs (Approved Driving Instructors) from Driving Mobility can assess, review and signpost young drivers to the most appropriate adapted vehicle. These services will be explained at Kidz-up-North by representatives from two Driving Mobility centres – namely the William Merritt Disabled Living Centre based in Leeds and RDAC Manchester.

Steve Perry, Driving Mobility Trustee, said: “We look forward to another busy Kidz event and being able to help visitors once again on a face-to-face basis. Our team will be able to answer all questions relating to assisted driving and explain how our Occupational Therapists work effectively with their peers in the community. Driving Mobility is 100% committed to positive outcomes for all so even if driving a vehicle is not an option, our centres can recommend a range of alternative solutions from powered wheelchairs to accessible public transport.”

 

Driving Mobility, the charity that accredits a network of driving assessment centres, has relaunched its website to provide comprehensive guidance on all aspects of adapted driving, accessible travel and personal mobility.

https://www.drivingmobility.org.uk/

Supported by the Department for Transport, Driving Mobility is the umbrella organisation that coordinates 20 independent driving assessment centres across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. With over 70 outreach facilities, centres are individually managed by separate charities and NHS departments – all providing clinical ‘fitness-to-drive’ assessments commonly for people who have experienced a life changing diagnosis. Client can also benefit from a range of other services and either self-refer or are signposted from the DVLA, Motabilty, Police and NHS.

In addition to clinical recommendations regarding driving with a disability, professional advice is available on wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs), mobility equipment, using public transport and accessible lifestyles. Healthcare professionals are also supported with CPD training and events. Driving Mobility is regarded as ‘the national voice of assisted driving and independence’ and its improved website now reflects this position of authority.

Driving Mobility boasts the UK’s largest knowledge base in terms of accessible driving.

Its team of Occupational Therapists (OTs), Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs), management staff and trustees, bring together vast experience in assisted driving and accessible travel. This wealth of expertise ensures the new Driving Mobility website is a vital gateway to accessibility for all.

Edward Trewhella, Driving Mobility CEO, explains: “When you or a client experiences a change in  mobility, there is always a need for qualified advice so informed decisions can be made to remain independent. There is a raft of information on the internet however identifying solutions to individual needs can be impossible. This is why our new website has been significantly strengthened and redesigned with extra content – to facilitate easier access to many answers regarding driving with a disability. Add to this, solutions for living without a car, condition specific suggestions and HUBs information, the new Driving Mobility website represents an invaluable tool for all consumers and professionals seeking qualified guidance on personal independence.”

Development of the enhanced Driving Mobility website

This hhas involved input from a large number of staff each with unsurpassed knowledge in their field. The team has included respected individuals, such as, trustee and international transport specialist Ann Frye OBE, BA, FCILT, FCIHT, TPP. Her knowledge has complemented clinical content from leading OTs within the organisation and frontline feedback from centre managers. Managers have also assisted with collating an impressive range of client stories which highlight how services make a difference on a personalised level. This material is available through large clickable tiles for easy access and is summarised in the charity’s recently published professional video. This video has already achieved over 30,000 targeted views in just over three months with high performance recognition from YouTube.

Edward concludes: “With the need for safe, accessible and independent travel heightened by Covid-19, demand for Driving Mobility services will be higher than ever as lockdown restrictions are eased. We now have a robust, future-proofed website capable of delivering the support required.”

#MyDrivingMobility