Every health condition affects driving differently, which is why there's no single test that fits everyone. A spinal cord injury, for example, is usually about physical control — reduced strength or limb movement, seating, transfers to and from the vehicle, and how a person stows their mobility equipment. Many people return to independent driving with the right adaptations, from hand controls and steering aids to transfer plates, wheelchair hoists and high-tech wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) that allow driving directly from a wheelchair.

Dementia presents almost the opposite picture. Here the focus is cognitive — memory, judgement, attention and processing speed — and because symptoms change over time, the emphasis is on driving safely for as long as it remains appropriate, with regular review and planning ahead.

What these differences show is how our clinician-led assessments are personalised to the individual's health condition or disability. Getting it right takes more than a general impression; it takes informed, person-centred evaluation from someone who understands both the condition and the practical demands of driving.

That's what our assessment process is built around. It typically begins with a referral — from an occupational therapist or other health professional, from the client themselves, or from an organisation such as the DVLA, NHS or Motability. The centre confirms fees, funding and any specific requirements before the appointment.

The assessment itself brings together a clinician and an Approved Driving Instructor. It begins with a pre-drive discussion, then moves on to a physical and visual review, cognitive checks and an on-road drive in a dual-controlled vehicle, with adaptations trialled where helpful. Afterwards, the team explains the findings and, with the client's consent, provides you with a written report — usually within two weeks — that can be shared with other health professionals and organisations such as the DVLA.

Come and talk to us about referral routes and assessments at stand C44, and join one of our CPD talks at the OT Show — NEC Birmingham, 25–26 November.