Ben Shepherd, a 20-year-old Hull resident who has a lifelong brain condition and uses crutches, has praised the Motability Foundation for helping him secure a full-time job at his former college. He says the role would have been impossible without the specialised driving support he received during his studies.
Grant Enabled Adapted Driving Lessons
While studying at Wilberforce Sixth Form College, Shepherd received a £1,750 grant from the Motability Foundation to pay for 40 hours of driving lessons in a specially adapted vehicle with hand controls. He passed his driving test on the first attempt and now uses a leased vehicle to travel independently to his workplace.
From Apprenticeship to Permanent Role
Shepherd completed a standard apprenticeship at the college before landing a permanent position as a data assistant last week. His responsibilities include analysing student data to ensure young people receive the correct funding for their education.
Shepherd said: “Getting a Motability Foundation grant has made me feel free. I now have full independence. Without being able to drive, I wouldn’t be able to do my job, getting to the college and back. I have more confidence since being able to drive. I can do things I wasn’t able to do without my car - life is just better.”
Motability Foundation's Broader Impact
The charity oversees a national vehicle leasing scheme and provides independent transport access to hundreds of thousands of people annually. It also awards grants to community organisations to improve public transport accessibility.
Nigel Fletcher, chief executive officer of the Motability Foundation, said: “Congratulations to Ben on securing his new role at Wilberforce Sixth Form College. His achievement highlights how access to transport can open doors to education, employment and greater independence. We know that transport remains one of the biggest barriers many disabled people face. That's why we're committed to supporting disabled people to make the journeys they choose, helping them access the opportunities that matter most to them. Ben's journey is a fantastic example of what's possible when those barriers are removed.”
