Disabled Drivers Association Northern Ireland

Public benefits

Purposes representing the needs of disabled people who are drivers By means of Information Days when experts address the audience on motoring and associated topics; by publicity in our in-house magazines; by radio and TV appearances and all other opportunities that arise, the NI DDA endeavours to publicise the needs of this group of health and

social care users. In this way the health authorities, both planners and providers, and Government Departments are made aware of the type and range of services needed by this group of disabled people. This leads to improvements in the well being of as their needs are better met and social isolation reduced. Also greater awareness by the public of the needs of the group helps public understanding of the problems experienced and the needs of disabled motorists and can improve interaction and understanding. assisting members to take their full integrated part in the life of the community; By means of regular social gatherings members are encouraged to take part in events such as quiz nights, barbecues, training courses, annual dinner and subsidised short trips to tourist attractions etc, where there is the opportunity to meet and have social interaction with both disabled and non-disabled people. This contributes to improved well being, reduces social isolation and therefore a reduction in calls on the health and social services. This in turn means reduced costs to the health and social services budget. Members are encouraged to play a full part in all aspects of civil society. offering help, advice, information and support to disabled motoring people resident in Northern Ireland; Committee members offer advice and support to members and non-members on the issues they raise about motoring issues such as parking arrangements under the Blue Badge Scheme, access to adapted cars for the disabled, driving tuition sources, motability issues. On occasion an enquiry is received from elected representatives. All enquirers are advised of where full information can be obtained and of the need to take professional medical/orthotic/prosthetic/technical advice to ensure they make correctly informed decisions. In this way enquirers are directed to the appropriate information channel quickly and this can reduce frustration arising from the search for answers. In addition staff time in organisations is not wasted trying to source the correct avenue for many enquiries. The availability of personal experience of use in many cases can also give reassurance to the enquirer. liaising with similar groups to receive and disseminate information and expertise NI DDA is affiliated to Disabled Motoring UK (registered charity no.1111826) which is based in Norwich; all Northern Ireland members of the DDA are also members of DMUK. Regular contact is maintained with DMUK from whom we get regular updates and information on work in this field. At present Northern Ireland has two members on the Board of Trustees of DMUK which ensures we have an input to discussion and decision making. All these benefits can be demonstrated through feedback from service users, numbers of enquiries and continued ongoing relationships with other bodies. There is no harm flowing from our purposes There is no private benefit flowing from our purposes.

What your organisation does

We provide social interaction for disabled members and thereby reduce social isolation and contribute to their well-being mentally and physically. We are a self-help organisation which provides help, guidance and support for disabled people.