Driving with Neurodiversity

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Driving for Individuals with Neurodiversity

At Herts Ability, we understand that many neurodivergent individuals may have been led to believe that driving is beyond their reach. We are dedicated to breaking down these barriers and helping neurodivergent people achieve a new level of independence.

Our Approach

A woman sat in her adapted car.
A young woman facing the camera while sat in her adapted car.

Herts Ability boasts a team of experienced assessors trained to accommodate the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. Here’s how we do it:

Bespoke Assessment Process

We know that the idea of tests and assessments can be daunting. That’s why we tailor our process to each individual. Our assessors pay close attention to your responses and adjust their approach to ensure your comfort and success.

Supportive Environment

We recognise that meeting new people can be challenging. To make you more comfortable, a parent, relative, or friend can join you during the non-driving elements of the assessment to offer support and answer questions.

Carefully Selected Vehicles

When it’s time to drive, we choose the right vehicle for you. If noise is a concern, we’ll use a quieter electric vehicle. You’ll be accompanied by a highly trained DVSA Approved Driving Instructor and an Occupational Therapist, who will guide you through each step at your own pace.

Driving Lessons

A man sat in the driving position of his adapted car.
A young woman sat in a car receiving instructions from a Herts Ability assessor.

After your assessment, you’ll need driving lessons to prepare for the DVSA driving test and safe, independent driving. Herts Ability provides these lessons, offering:

  • Personalised Instruction: We help you choose the best car for your needs. More importantly, our professional, highly trained, and motivated DVSA Approved Driving Instructors will work with you throughout your tuition.
  • Pace at Your Speed: All lessons are tailored to your pace. If you don’t understand something, your instructor will find an alternative way to explain it. We will never ask you to change who you are; it’s our job to adapt our teaching methods to suit you.
  • Ongoing Support: We regularly review your progress with an Occupational Therapist if needed. We also check in with your family and friends to ensure everything is going well. On test day, we can even speak to your examiner to ensure they understand your individual needs.

Theory Test Support

A young woman holding her theory test certificate with the driving assessor.

Passing the theory test is a crucial step for all new drivers, but it can be particularly daunting for neurodivergent individuals. Herts Ability offers support to make this process easier:

  • Tailored Learning Techniques: Work with our highly trained DVSA Approved Driving Instructors in a comfortable, safe environment to learn techniques for remembering questions, problem-solving, staying calm, and gaining the necessary knowledge to pass the test.
  • Additional Support: If you encounter difficulties, our Occupational Therapists are available to provide extra assistance.

At Herts Ability, we are committed to supporting neurodivergent individuals every step of the way, ensuring a positive and empowering driving experience.

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