Motability Scheme lessons in Moorends

Before you call us

It helps to have a few things in mind when you ring:

• Any condition that affects how you drive or how you get in and out of a car.
• Any adaptations you already use, or think you might need.
• Whether you already hold a provisional licence.
• Whether you have passed your theory test, which matters for grant funding.

We will be honest about what our cars can and cannot offer. If you need specialist adaptations, an assessment is usually the best first step. The general Motability driving lessons page explains how we work.

Lessons from your home in Moorends

Most lessons start at your front door, which avoids a trip anywhere first. The village is flat, sitting about two metres above sea level, so early lessons can focus on control and observation without hill starts. We begin on side streets off the bus route and move on to Marshland Road when you are ready.

If home is not ideal, Thorne North station is the nearest railway station to the village, and its southbound platform has step-free access at all times. Later lessons head south through Thorne to the A614 and the junction 6 roundabout on the M18.

Our cars

Motability lessons are taught in automatic cars with dual controls. Without a clutch pedal or manual gear changes, driving can be more manageable if you have limited use of your left leg or find repeated gear changes difficult. Your instructor can slow or stop the car from the passenger seat at any time.

If you need adaptations beyond a standard automatic, mention them when you call so we can discuss what is possible. Tell us too if you use a wheelchair or walking aid, so your instructor can allow time at the start and end of each lesson for getting in and out of the car comfortably.

Starting at 16

Normally you can drive from 17, with a provisional licence available from 15 years and 9 months. People who receive the enhanced rate of the mobility component of PIP, or who have applied for it, can start driving a car at 16. Apply through GOV.UK.

For students at Trinity Academy in Thorne, that extra year can mean starting lessons before sixth form exams arrive.

Grant funding and private lessons

The Motability Foundation runs a driving lessons grant that can pay for up to 40 hours. It is open to disabled people on the Motability Scheme who also meet further conditions, among them receiving a means-tested benefit and already holding a theory test pass. Importantly, the Foundation books grant-funded lessons itself.

So the first step is to check with the Foundation, either on 0800 500 3186 or through its grant information page. If you do not qualify, or you want to get going sooner, Alma can teach you as a private pupil.

Assessments with Driving Mobility

Driving Mobility is a charity offering car driving and adaptation assessments. It has an outreach centre in Doncaster, arranged through its Leeds centre. An assessment can tell you which adaptations would help and if you are ready to start lessons. Find out more on the Driving Mobility website.

If you live near the boundary with the town, our page on Motability driving lessons in Thorne covers the Thorne side, and the main Moorends driving lessons page lists all our services.

Motability Scheme driving lessons in Moorends: your questions

Can I learn with Alma if I am on the Motability Scheme?

Yes. We teach Motability Scheme customers and other disabled learners in automatic, dual controlled cars, with pick-up from home in Moorends. Talk to us about your needs when you call.

Does Alma provide grant-funded Motability lessons?

No. The Motability Foundation arranges grant-funded lessons itself, so contact the Foundation to check your eligibility. If you are not eligible, or would like to start sooner, you can book with us as a private pupil.

What adaptations do your cars have?

Our Motability lessons use automatic cars with dual controls. If you need further adaptations, tell us when you call so we can be clear about what we can offer. A Driving Mobility assessment can help identify what you need.

Can I start lessons before I turn 17?

If you receive the enhanced rate of the mobility component of PIP, or have applied for it, you can start driving a car at 16. You still need a provisional licence first, which you apply for on GOV.UK.