Disability

Shopping and Shopmobility schemes

Shopmobility lends mobility vehicles, such as manual and powered wheelchairs or scooters, to anyone with a permanent or temporary disability, for getting around a town or city centre.

There are local Shopmobility schemes throughout the UK, each of which may operate slightly differently. The loan is always just for the duration of the visit to the town or centre, and is normally free of charge. Most schemes prefer people to book in advance, and some schemes are able to offer escorts.

The National Federation of Shopmobility website contains a directory of schemes in the UK as well as guidelines for best practice.

Many of the larger supermarkets provide a home delivery service, while other agencies provide frozen meal deliveries and meals on wheels. Mail order and internet shopping also provide easy access to goods. Voluntary organisations in some areas have set up shopping services (delivery or transport to the shops) for those with mobility difficulties. See the Council for Voluntary Service link below for contacts to find out if schemes exist in your area.