The North East Drive Mobility (NEDM) service helps people across the North of England to maintain or regain independence as drivers and passengers following a change in their health.
They can support people with a range of health problems which affect someone’s ability to drive or travel independently, such as (but not limited to) dementia, MS, ME / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Parkinson’s, Huntingdon’s, and effects of a stroke.
The service offers specialist driving assessments, advice on vehicle adaptations and specialist driving tuition, passenger assessments for those with difficulties getting in and out of a vehicle, powered wheelchair and mobility scooter assessments, and a Mobility Hubs Advice Service for people who need advice on alternatives to driving.
NEDM has centres in Newcastle upon Tyne, Stockton on Tees, and Carlisle.
If you think you (or someone you know) could benefit from our support, please call 0191 287 5090 or email northeast.
Doctors, consultants and other health professionals can also refer their patients to the service.
You’ll find more information on the North East Drive Mobility webpage.
Case study
Sam, 58, from Morpeth in Northumberland, has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Multiple sclerosis is a lifelong condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation, or balance.
In 2022, Sam noticed she was finding it harder to drive, and her physiotherapist referred her to the North East Drive Mobility service.
“It was quite scary at the time; I was thinking ‘ah no, this means I'm going to have my license taken away.’ But then I thought, ‘I need to be safe.’
“I was petrified, I have to tell you! I was fearing the worst. But I was really surprised. The people here are really friendly, very understanding, and supportive. I genuinely felt that they wanted to help me. They weren't just going to say ‘oh, you've got to have your license taken away.’
“I had an assessment and lessons here, which were really good. The instructor was fabulous, very patient.
“I felt great after, because I was able to keep my license, keep driving, and have my independence and confidence back.”