Rising numbers of older people and those with poor mobility are turning to the convenience of a mobility scooter to maintain their independence.
People using these scooters are responsible for their own and other people’s safety, so to help them use their scooters safely, Shopmobility Macclesfield, run by Disability Information Bureau (DIB) has been working with Age UK Cheshire East, Cheshire East Council and Shop-mobility Congleton to produce a free, easy-to-read “Highway Code” for mobility scooter users. It will help keep everyone safer.
As well as the Highway Code, DIB is also planning to offer free training courses on scooter safety.
Cllr Janet Clowes (Portfolio Holder for Health & Adult Social Care) stated; “There has been a noticeable increase in the use of mobility vehicles across the Borough and they have become an essential means by which those with mobility problems can remain active and independent in their own communities. However, as with any other vehicle, they must be used safely and responsibly to protect users and public alike. Therefore this 'Highway Code' initiative together with free training in the safe use of these vehicles is very welcome.”
Madelyn Bridge, Chief Executive of Age UK Cheshire East said:
“Transport always ranks high on the list of older people’s concerns. The rise in mobility scooter usage is evidence of many older people’s desire to keep their independence, and for some, it can be their only means of contact with the outside world. We applaud DIB’s efforts to make the use of these scooters much safer for all road users.”
Scooter users in Cheshire East can get a copy of the free Highway Code from DIB, Age UK Cheshire East, Shopmobilities in Cheshire East and a number of other locations. If you are interested in a Safe Scooter User course, contact DIB in Macclesfield on 01625 501759 or by email on info@dibservices.org.uk to arrange.
No comments:
Post a Comment