Jason proves disability is no barrier to learning to drive

Jason Cooper ripped up his L plates last Wednesday after becoming a fully qualified driver - having taken just 20 lessons with the Driving Consultancy.

The Warwickshire College student, who has a condition called hypochondroplasia - meaning he has shorter limbs than most people and is 4ft 9ins tall, was referred to the Tachbrook Park Drive firm when he was buying himself pedal extensions to bring the car pedals closer to his feet.

And soon after getting in touch, Mr Cooper, who lives in Kenilworth, was ready to take his test and passed at his first attempt.

His instructor Richard Collins, who is also co-director of the Driving Consultancy, said: “Jason is over the moon because he can go to and from college and see his mates when he likes.

“He wanted to drive a manual car but he had problems reaching the pedals. But the pedal extensions, which can fit into any car, make driving for him the same as for anyone else.”

Mr Collins and his business partner Fiona Denehey, who are both also consultant driving advisors and have more than 25 years’ experience in the field between them, only set up the firm in January but have already seen six of their students pass their tests.

With five cars and a motorbike that have been adapted in different ways to suit different disability needs, the pair make it possible for people with a wide range of disabilities to drive.

They also offer assistance to people with illnesses and conditions, including amputees, heart attack and stroke victims, Parkinsons’ disease and dementia patients and those who have suffered head injuries.

Mr Collins said: “People assume that they will never be able to drive but we want to show them that that’s not true. Any physical disability can be overcome. It’s just a case of adding things to a car. If we don’t have the equipment needed, we can tell people where to get it.

“That feeling of independence is so important.”

He and Mrs Denehey are also qualified to act as expert witnesses in court cases involving disabled people who have been in a road collision.

The pair also carry out assessments for companies that require employees to drive for work, as well as for older drivers who may have to prove they are still fit to drive when they reach 70.

And because the Driving Consultancy is a community interest company, all profits it makes are donated to its chosen charity for the year. This year’s is Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance.

To find out more or book classes, call 800242, email [email protected]