Herts Ability’s Top 5 Highlights of 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, we’ve been taking time to reflect on what has been an extraordinary year for Herts Ability! From joyful community celebrations to deeply personal milestones of independence, this year has reminded us exactly why our work matters - and why the people behind it matter even more!
Here are our Top 5 Highlights of 2025: moments that capture the heart of Herts Ability, the strength of our community, and our shared commitment to independence, inclusion and mobility for all!
1. A Night to Remember: Our Charity Quiz Success
Saturday 22nd November was, quite simply, unforgettable. Digswell Village Hall came alive as friends, families, supporters and quiz-lovers gathered for our Herts Ability Charity Quiz Night. From the moment the doors opened, the room buzzed with energy, laughter and friendly competition.
Teams battled through brain-teasing rounds, shared plenty of laughs, and soaked up a wonderfully warm atmosphere that reminded us how powerful community spirit can be. The competition was fierce, but the camaraderie was even stronger - and congratulations once again to our brilliant quiz champions who took home the prizes!
We were especially honoured to welcome Mayor Lynn Chesterman and Consort Alan Chesterman, whose presence and ongoing support added something truly special to the evening. Thanks to everyone’s generosity (and a little healthy rivalry), we raised vital funds towards installing an all-weather canopy at our centre. This will allow us to carry out passenger assessments safely and comfortably, whatever the weather, helping local people maintain mobility and independence all year round.
To everyone who attended, volunteered, donated prizes or helped spread the word - thank you. Nights like this truly make a difference, and we couldn’t do it without you.
2. Independence in Action: Janade’s Driving Success Story
One of the most rewarding parts of our work is celebrating the achievements of the people we support - and Janade’s journey is a perfect example of why we do what we do!
This year, we were thrilled to congratulate Janade on being officially fit to drive. Reflecting on the experience, Janade shared:
“The experience was enjoyable - everyone was great, and I’ll be telling people that I should be driving with adaptations to visit you! Thank you all.”
Janade’s determination, positivity and resilience are truly inspiring. With the right support, the right adaptations, and a team that believes in what’s possible, independence can be reclaimed. Client testimonials like this remind us that driving isn’t just about getting from A to B - it’s about freedom, confidence and opportunity.
If you or someone you know is thinking about returning to driving or exploring vehicle adaptations, our friendly team is always here to help make that journey possible!
3. Spotlight on Leyton: Supporting Londoners Back Behind the Wheel
This year, we were proud to continue the vital work of our Leyton Driving Centre - the only Driving Mobility Centre in London. Open every Tuesday and Wednesday, the centre plays a crucial role in helping Londoners regain confidence and independence on the road.
Our dedicated team - Sarah (Driving Assessor) and Ayo (Driving Assessor & Occupational Therapist) - bring expertise, compassion and encouragement to every assessment. Clients can explore a wide range of vehicle adaptations and transfer aids, supported by our fully equipped dual-controlled fleet, ensuring each person finds what works best for them.
Leyton represents everything Herts Ability stands for: accessible services, expert support, and a belief that independence should never be out of reach.
4. Pathways to Independence: Our Welwyn Garden City Open Day
On Wednesday 24th September, we hosted our Pathways to Independence Open Day at the stunning Panshanger Golf Complex - and what an incredible day it was!
The event brought together members of the public, healthcare professionals, driving instructors, councils, emergency services and community organisations, all united by a shared goal: supporting independent mobility. Visitors enjoyed hands-on demonstrations from our Driving Instructors and Occupational Therapists, explored specialist accessible vehicles and WAVs, and discovered innovative mobility solutions from leading suppliers.
This event was a true celebration of collaboration and community, made possible by our amazing staff, volunteers, trustees, exhibitors and partners - with special thanks to our guests, including Mayor Lynn Chesterman and Deputy Mayor Cllr Michal Siewniak.
As our CEO Sean Lawrence perfectly summed up:
“It was inspiring to see so many people come together - exploring new ideas, building connections, and discovering the many ways we can promote greater independence.”
It wasn’t just an open day - it was a statement about what’s possible when we work together.
5. Looking Forward: New Services, New Opportunities
2025 also marked an exciting step forward with the launch of our LGV & PCV Driving Assessments, delivered in partnership with MK Driver Training. Designed for people returning to vocational driving after injury, illness or time away from the road, this service provides reassurance, professional assessment and renewed confidence.
Alongside this, we’ve continued to meet people where they are - from community events like the Potters Bar Health & Wellbeing Event, to everyday conversations offering free, expert advice on driving, transport and independent living with physical or hidden disabilities.
These moments may seem small, but they add up to something powerful: reassurance, empowerment and hope.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey!
Every highlight of 2025 shares one common thread - people! Our clients, supporters, staff, volunteers, trustees and partners are the heartbeat of Herts Ability. Whether you attended an event, shared a story, volunteered your time, or simply believed in our mission, you helped make this year what it was.
As we look ahead to 2026, we do so with gratitude, excitement and determination to keep championing independence for all.
Thank you for being part of the Herts Ability community - and watch this space for what’s next!
