Driving Mobility to showcase driving assessment services at Royal College of Occupational Therapists Conference

Occupational Therapists representing Driving Mobility, the national charity which oversees 20 independent driving assessment centres across the UK, will be presenting their services at the 2019 RCOT Conference.

RCOT Annual Conference and Exhibition, stand 62. 17-18 June 2019, ICC Birmingham. #RCOT2019

Many with outreach capabilities, Driving Mobility centres include independent charities and facilities operating within the NHS that deliver professional assessments so disabled and elderly people can gain or retain independence. Each centre employs Occupational Therapists (OTs), Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) and Administration staff so service users can gain, or retain, the ability to drive following a diagnosis involving impairment or disability. Individuals can self-refer or are signposted by the DVLA, Motability, Police and healthcare professionals such as OTs and GPs. Over and above driving assessments and advice regarding vehicle adaptations, centres provide a vast range of further information regarding accessible air, bus and train travel – all of which will be displayed on stand 62.

Driving Mobility OTs, ADIs and centre managers will be available to explain how the charity can support client occupational performance and help meet the challenges OTs face, in terms of facilitating mobility outside of the home. These representatives will be from two of the independent regional organisations within the Driving Mobility national network – RDAC and the William Merritt Disabled Living Centre.

Offering an interactive experience, there will be a vehicle simulator on the stand for delegates to try which will highlight parts of the Driving Mobility assessments. This feature is a replica of the equipment at many centres which is used to measure driver capabilities in a clinically-led format. By sitting in the driving seat OTs will understand more clearly aspects to consider when assessing client needs, wants and risks.

Edward Trewhella, Chief Executive, Driving Mobility comments: “We are delighted to be showcasing Driving Mobility services at the RCOT conference for the first time. Our interactive vehicle simulator and comprehensive information display will provide an opportunity for delegates seeking professional guidance in relation to independent mobility. Driving Mobility OTs work closely with fellow peers in the public and private sector to ensure their clients can benefit from inclusion and accessibility within the community. This effective relationship provides solutions to many common transportation issues and hence we look forward to forging new connections at the conference which will result in wider support across the UK.”