Driving can be a real challenge for all of us out on the road. But spare a thought for those people trying to overcome a physical, mental or learning disability that has impacted their ability to drive, something many take for granted as a daily task.
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However, with the correct training and support these same people are capable, safe drivers who can then expand their world and increase opportunities just by gaining their drivers licence.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) was established a few years ago by the federal government to ensure funding to those who needed specialised care, assistance or life skills to live and work in mainstream society and achieve life goals.
Without this support many people were not able to achieve these goals and live actively in the community as they would like.
The NDIS gives all Australians peace of mind that if their child or loved one is born with or acquires a permanent and significant disability, they will get the support they need.
The NDIS supports people with disability to build skills and capability so they can participate in the community and employment.
As the scheme has developed over time, some changes have been made to ensure it operates within guidelines.
One of these changes recently was to have an occupational therapist assessment completed before engaging in driving lessons. This is conducted with a trained driving occupational therapist on and off road to ensure the suitability of the person to drive and their ability level. This will assist a specialised driver trainer to develop a program suited to their needs.
Once an assessment is made and the person is currently on NDIS, they will have a service booking made with a rehabilitation driving instructor for specialised lessons.
In the Highlands, we have had many NDIS clients achieve their life goal of becoming a safe driver on our roads with Highlands Drive Safe. This has led to employment and a complete change in their life.
These people engage in society and are able to contribute valuable skills and knowledge to the workforce that they may not have been able to do without a licence.
We have had clients who have amputations, brain injury, as well as clients on the autism spectrum, all achieve their goals to become safe drivers.
If you are currently on NDIS speak to your plan manager about specialised driver training and if you are eligible. We are always happy to chat to you about specific needs under NDIS and driving, and your plan manager can help guide you in the process.
