For Tanya, driving has always meant one thing: freedom.

“As a disabled teenager living in the countryside, learning to drive the moment I turned 17 was essential,” she explains.

Over the years, she progressed from “an ancient £50 wreck of a Mini” to Motability vehicles, enjoying the independence that driving brought. But life had other plans. Shoulder problems eventually forced her to stop driving in her mid-forties, and after several operations, it seemed her driving days were over.

A surgically fused neck and right ankle, reduced dexterity and a severe rotator cuff injury in her left shoulder presented challenges that felt impossible to overcome.

Yet, 14 years later, Tanya is back behind the wheel - and driving confidently towards a new chapter of independence thanks to the support of the team at Herts Ability.

“I Heard Nothing But Positivity”

After years away from driving, Tanya began hearing about vehicle adaptations from friends who were also disabled drivers.

“With time comes progress,” she says. “A couple of disabled friends who drive told me about adaptations that work well for them, so I thought - after 14 years - I should explore my options again.”

Searching for an assessment centre close to home, she discovered Herts Ability.

“I found Herts Ability, the closest assessment centre to me, and gave them a sense of what the barriers were. I heard nothing but positivity.”

That encouragement proved to be the start of an incredible journey.

Expert Support Every Step of the Way

When Tanya arrived at Herts Ability, she met driving instructor Mark and Occupational Therapist Charis for her initial pre-drive assessment.

“They were professional, supportive and insightful,” Tanya recalls. “They said there were no wrong or right ways to drive - as long as I was in control of the vehicle and could drive it safely.”

The team carefully assessed her needs and introduced adaptations including a left-foot accelerator, a steering wheel positioned closer for easier reach, and a tri-panel rear-view mirror to eliminate blind spots.

Driving around Herts Ability’s specialist track, complete with roundabouts and junctions, reignited something she thought she had lost.

“Driving round the course was great fun and convinced me I could take up driving again.”

Rebuilding Confidence After 14 Years Away

Before taking her full driving assessment on public roads, it was recommended that Tanya have lessons to regain confidence and become familiar with the left-foot accelerator.

However, finding an instructor who had a car with the necessary adaptations proved impossible.

“So I went back to Herts Ability,” she says.

There, she worked closely with instructor Lola and experienced assessor David, whose creativity and expertise helped her tackle every challenge.

“Lola, my excellent instructor, together with David, one of the experienced assessors, were full of ideas about tackling different situations and even came up with an ingenious way to reach the indicator - two fine-art paintbrushes strapped together and clamped to the stalk at an angle if you’re interested!”

Their practical approach and willingness to find solutions made all the difference.

Passing with Confidence

For Tanya’s final assessment, she was joined once again by Occupational Therapist Charis, alongside assessor Simon.

“I was a little apprehensive, but I shouldn’t have been,” Tanya says.

“They put me at ease and ensured the car was set up in the way I needed and allowed me to drive around for 10 minutes to check I was happy before starting the test.”

Simon explained everything clearly and made the experience relaxed and enjoyable.

“Fifty minutes later, after a relaxed drive around town and on faster A roads and dual carriageways, we were back at the centre. I passed.”

“Driving Represents Freedom”

For Tanya, getting back behind the wheel wasn’t simply about passing an assessment - it was about reclaiming her independence.

“Driving represents freedom,” she says.

And her message to others considering driving again is clear:

“If you’re disabled and want to learn how to drive, or an experienced driver thinking about getting behind the wheel again, then I highly recommend checking out Herts Ability.”

She adds:

“Thanks to Herts Ability; from the instructors and OTs to the assessors and admin teams, you provide an amazing service.”

Making Independence Possible

Everyone at Herts Ability is incredibly proud to have played a part in Tanya’s journey.

From Charis, Lola and Simon to the wider team of instructors, occupational therapists, assessors and administrative staff, Tanya’s success reflects what Herts Ability is all about - helping people overcome barriers and regain confidence, mobility and independence.

Whether you’re learning to drive for the first time, returning after illness or injury, or exploring adapted vehicles and specialist driving assessments, Herts Ability is here to help.

Ready to Start Your Own Driving Journey?

Whether you’re taking your first lesson or returning to driving after years away, our expert team provides a safe, supportive and understanding environment tailored to your individual needs.

📞 Call: 01707 324 581

📧 Email: driving@hertsability.org.uk

Because independence is possible - just ask Tanya.

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