Supported by the Department for Transport, Driving Mobility, will be highlighting its driving and equipment assessment services for young people at Kidz to Adultz North.
1st Nov 2023, 9.30am – 4pm. Manchester Central, Manchester, M2 3GX. Stand G13.
The 20+ Driving Mobility centres across the UK aim to enable children and adults with disabilities so they can benefit from increased personal mobility. Centres consist of either NHS departments or independent charities accredited by Driving Mobility which provide consistent ‘fitness-to-drive’ and mobility equipment assessments. Led by Approved Driving Instructors and occupational therapists, services assist clients who self-refer or are signposted from the DVLA, Motability, Police or healthcare professionals. From a clinical point of view, they can recommend the ideal adapted driving controls, accessible vehicles or specialist tuition to begin or remain driving with a medical condition. If driving in not deemed a viable option, the charity’s new Hubs Mobility Advice Service can advise on alternative transport options to remain mobile.
Young individuals with a disability can gain their provisional licence early at the age of 16. 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 children and their parents visiting stand G13, Driving Mobility can provide advice on further services. These include:
- Assessment, advice and fitting of specialist car seats
- Advice on paediatric powered wheelchairs
Complementing information on Hubs, details will be available on the Tryb4ufly advice service which is operated by QEF, part of Driving Mobility. This specialist service provides guidance on flying with a disability so travel further afield is easier and less stressful.