Herts Ability Launches New Outreach Service at Stoke Mandeville Spinal Unit
We’re thrilled to announce that Herts Ability is now live at the Stoke Mandeville Spinal Unit - bringing our specialist driving assessments directly to patients as part of their rehabilitation journey.
Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Aylesbury is one of just 12 specialist National Spinal Injuries Centres in the UK, offering life-changing support for people recovering from spinal trauma and illness. We're proud to be playing a part in that recovery process, helping individuals regain their independence through driving.
Our first clients at this new outreach location, Lukas and Amanda, have already completed their driving assessments - and their stories reflect just how vital accessible driving support can be.
Meet Lukas
Lukas sustained a spinal injury in January 2025, resulting in full-time wheelchair use. A provisional licence holder, Lukas had previously taken lessons in a manual car. During his assessment, our team identified that pull/push hand controls would enable him to resume his driving lessons - and get back on the road to independence.
Meet Amanda
Amanda’s journey began with a serious illness in 2023, which left her with limited leg function. She’s been navigating the hospital using a mobility scooter, but missed the freedom that driving once offered. During her assessment, Amanda was able to successfully use a left foot accelerator pedal - and did so with a beaming smile from start to finish. With just a short course of tuition, she’ll soon be back behind the wheel with confidence.
Making a Difference, One Assessment at a Time
The assessments at Stoke Mandeville are led by Linda, our Lead Occupational Therapist, and James, our Lead Driving Assessor. Both are passionate about helping people of all ages and abilities regain their driving independence as part of their rehabilitation journey.
Please note: this outreach service is available exclusively to inpatients and outpatients of the Stoke Mandeville Spinal Unit, and is not open to the general public.
We’re honoured to be part of this incredible work and look forward to helping many more clients take the next step toward greater independence. Please contact us if you require more information.
