Driving as an occupation – the conversation is open

Jennifer Peak is the Professional Lead for Occupational Therapy and Highly Specialist Community Occupational Therapist for the Acquired Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service at Dorset Healthcare. 

Due to her 20 years of experience working in a community neuro setting, we’re delighted to have Jennifer as our Community Engagement Coordinator in the Neurological Practice Network on RCOT Communities. 

If you’d like to engage in the conversation around driving, please find details at the bottom of this blog on how to join a chat on RCOT Communities that Jennifer has set up. 

Our thanks to Jennifer for starting the discussion below.

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Driving holds a profound importance in many people’s lives, offering far more than a practical means of getting from one place to another. 

Predominantly, it represents independence – the ability to choose one’s path, set one’s own pace and access the wider world without relying on others. For many, the moment they take the wheel is the moment they experience a new sense of agency and confidence.

Participation, purpose and occupational justice  

Driving enables connections to community and loved ones as well as employment – especially in areas where public transport is limited. 

It supports spontaneity and expands opportunities, allowing people to engage fully in their daily lives. 

Driving is deeply tied to identity, reflecting personal roles, autonomy, and the value individuals place on fully participating in their communities. When someone loses the ability to drive, it can disrupt not only daily routines but also their sense of purpose and belonging. Many of us are emotionally attached to our vehicles, so losing the ability to drive can feel like losing a friend.  

From an occupational justice perspective, equitable access to mobility is essential – without it, people may become marginalised or excluded from meaningful occupations.

Assessing suitability – balancing safety with compassion 

For occupational therapists, assessing driving suitability is often emotionally complex and involves balancing safety with compassion.

Supporting patients’ fitness to drive is challenging as it necessitates navigating complex legal responsibilities and addressing significant emotional and logistical barriers. OTs often face ethical dilemmas when considering whether a patient should continue to drive.

When it is feasible, driving rehabilitation is crucial, as it preserves valued roles and allows the patient to continue living life with dignity, confidence and choice.