Ability Needs Winter Q1 2026

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THE ESSENTIAL JOURNAL ON DISABILITY WINTER Q1 2026 QUARTERLY £3.00

Motoring & Mobility

Finding the right products for you

Cristian Brownlee

The Best Mobility Aid Isn't a Wheelchair

Holidays

Now is the time to plan a winter getaway

MAZDA WITH THE MOTABILITY SCHEME M A Z D A C X- 3 0 F R O M £ 0 A D VA N C E PAY M E N T * Scan the QR code to discover more about the Mazda CX-30 on the Motability Scheme

*Model shown: Mazda CX-30 140ps Exclusive-Line e-Skyactiv G with a recommended OTR price from £30,380, available on the Motability Scheme with a Civilian Advance Payment of £999. Model may not be to UK specification. Civilian Advance Payment of £0 is available on Mazda CX-30 140ps Prime-Line e-Skyactiv G only. Model shown features Soul Red Crystal paint (£950). Premium paint colours are available at no additional cost to Motability Scheme Customers. OTR Price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 month road fund license, first registration fee, 6-year or 100,000 mile warranty, and 3-years European roadside assistance. Test drives subject to applicant status and availability. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations Ltd (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. Motability Scheme orders only. Subject to availability for vehicles ordered between 01.01.2026 and 31.03.2026, registered by 30.06.2026.

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Robotic Integrated Rehabilitation Founded in 2021, Thor Assistive Technologies Ltd leverages more than 25 years of expertise in mobility, assistive technology, robotics, and exoskeleton devices to advance neuro-rehabilitation. Recognising the profound benefits that assistive devices bring to rehabilitation, the company has focused on evidence-based solutions that increase exercise repetitions and dosage, both crucial to improving patient outcomes. Their innovative devices not only facilitate higher repetition rates compared to traditional methods but also capture detailed data for clinicians, enabling precise comparisons between initial presentations and outcome measures.

This emphasis on repetition is fundamental to impacting neuroplasticity—the brain's remarkable ability to reorganise and adapt following injury. By enabling patients to perform more repetitions with precision and consistency, these robotic-assisted interventions facilitate relearning and the formation of new neural pathways, dramatically enhancing the potential for functional recovery. As a result, individuals are empowered not only to regain lost abilities but also to achieve meaningful, long-term improvements in their rehabilitation journey.

Through the integration of advanced robotics, intuitive software, and interactive gaming elements, Thor Assistive Technologies ensures high levels of patient engagement and sustained motivation. This approach allows for truly

www.thortechnologies.co.uk

personalised rehabilitation journeys, dynamically adapting to individual progress and providing real-time feedback.

The company has established RehabHubs across the UK, collaborating with partner clinics to conduct trials, case studies, and ongoing evaluations, consistently demonstrating the advantages of combining technology with traditional therapy.

Thor Assistive Technologies continually seeks out the latest advancements in rehabilitation robotics globally.

Their portfolio reflects a curated selection of cutting-edge devices sourced from leading manufacturers, ensuring clinicians and patients benefit from proven and emerging technologies alike. By offering a flexible range of procurement options—including purchasing, renting, and leasing, allows clinics to have a single point of contact for multiple devices and manufacturers.

Based in the Midlands, Thor Assistive Technologies offers comprehensive services including supply, installation, training, upgrades, and ongoing support to clinics throughout the UK and Ireland. By building strong relationships and supporting their clinical partners, Thor is dedicated to making cutting-edge rehabilitation technology accessible to a wider community.

Stephen Ruffle Commercial Director

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES LTD

Robotic Integrated Rehabilitation

stephen@thorsafety.co.uk Tel: 07469 254453

WINTER Q1

QUARTERLY £3.00

THE ESSENTIAL 2026

JOURNAL ON DISABIL ITY

Contents 3

5 Merrick Road, Kilmarnock, KA1 3TA

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ity

Cristian Brown

The Best Mobility lee Aid Isn't a Wheelch air

Holidays

Now is the time to plan a winter getaway

Tanni’s View - Baroness Grey-Thompson DBE – Tanni looks forward to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026

30

Cristian Brownlee - The Best Mobility Aid Isn’t a Wheelchair – Meet our new columnist, Cristian Brownlee, as he explains how to stop paying the “energy tax” by harnessing digital technology

36

Eddie Peacock - Buying mobility equipment? – Eddie offers sound advice on sourcing and buying mobility product

All Rights Reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without written permission of the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and although every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate, the publishers take no responsibility for errors and omissions. No responsibility can be accepted by the publishers for any claims made by the advertisers in this publication.

Isaac Harvey MBE

Motoring & Mobil

Finding the right products for you

- Seeing the Good While Navigating a Broken System – Isaac discusses how focussing on the positives during challenging situations encourage you to keep going

24 email: info@abilityneeds.co.uk web: www.abilityneeds.co.uk

Motoring and Mobility - Featuring the latest vehicles and products available in the mobility marketplace

Front cover ph Gosling Mobil otograph courtesy of Des ity Ltd

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Industry Insight - AI - Friend or Foe? – Angus Long looks at how the government’s plans for an AI blueprint may be encouraging and progressive, but how will it affect us?

46

Cheryl Everitt - A taste of Georgia: History, hospitality, and culture in the Caucasus – Cheryl tells us about her trip to Georgia where she discovered fascinating culture and incredible food

Purchase a digital copy of Ability Needs at www.magzter.com

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Ability Needs Magazine

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Get out there with Triride

T

RIRIDE ARE A market leader in the production of Power Add-on devices.

Whether you want full electrical assistance, or a Hybrid assisted handcycle we have you covered. Simply attach to your manual wheelchair in seconds and discover a new Freedom.

Intelligent Braking System makes driving with family and friends a breeze. Paired with Triride’s patented attachment method, fitting to most manual wheelchair is possible and customisable to each individual user requirements.

Wanting to go off the beaten track further?

Combine any one of our Triride or Tribike models with the ground breaking MTW Trekking system.

The Trekking Power system is an easily attachable rear axle system that provides you with three wheel drive power and ultimate traction to tackle almost any terrain, truly know no limits with Triride and the Trekking Power system. With it’s multi use you know have 3 systems in one, indoor with joystick, Triride only for the city and MTW power for your trekking desires.

Find out more information on www.triride.uk

The Triride Special Compact HT with all road tyre is a great all-rounder providing full electronic assistance. Small, compact, packed with plenty of

F R E E D O M

power to tackle those steeper inclines and handle some off-road use, but small enough and light enough to transport in the boot of your car.

Triride technology compliments the drive performance with Intelligent Cruise Control and Ability Needs Magazine

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Trainline And Parkinson’s’ UK Launch Awareness Campaign For Travel Trainline is proud to partner with leading charity Parkinson’s UK on a new campaign to make rail travel more inclusive for everyone. As part of the initiative, Trainline has launched a new badge to improve understanding of conditions like Parkinson’s and encourage greater patience among passengers.

In the UK today, someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s every 20 minutes and around 166,000 people are currently living with the condition - a number that continues to rise. It’s a progressive neurological condition caused by nerve cell damage that reduces dopamine levels in the brain. There are more than 40 symptoms, and each person’s experience of Parkinson’s is unique. This individuality means the condition is not always recognised or understood, which can lead to misinterpretation - particularly in busy travel settings.

New research from Trainline highlights why greater public understanding is needed. Confidence around recognising Parkinson’s in the UK is low. Over half of people surveyed (54%) said they were unsure about identifying symptoms, and only 15% said they felt “very confident” in doing so. Just under one in five (18%) would recognise slow movement or unsteadiness as a possible medical condition and almost one in ten said they might mistake Parkinson’s symptoms for something else entirely, like intoxication. This shows the importance of increasing public understanding, as physical symptoms such as a tremor or slower movement are more widely recognised than less visible effects such as anxiety or fatigue.

This is why Trainline has joined forces with Parkinson’s UK to design a badge that helps travellers indicate when they might need extra time or support.

Over half of those surveyed (55%) said a visible badge would make them more likely to offer help - proof that even small signs can spark acts of empathy.

The simple but powerful message on the badge, “Patience please, travelling is challenging for me”, encourages understanding from fellow travellers by reminding people that kindness and patience can make

a big difference.

Alongside the badges, Trainline is offering £10 off train travel to 500 people living with Parkinson’s, helping them to stay connected with support groups, attend appointments, or visit specialist nurses.

Ben Gee is 47 and lives with Parkinson’s. He said: “Parkinson’s affects everyone differently, and for me the hardest part is that people don’t expect someone my age to have it. I can’t always stand for long and sometimes my tremors or movements draw looks or questions. The badge takes away that ambiguity, meaning I can travel more confidently - it quietly explains what might be going on without me having to prompt the conversation. It’s not just about helping people with Parkinson’s, it’s about helping others understand - giving them the green light to show kindness, ask questions or offer assistance - something that can change your whole journey.”

Tom Ingram, Corporate Partnerships Lead at Parkinson's UK, said: “Travelling can be one of the most challenging experiences for people living with Parkinson's. With more than 40 symptoms including tremor, slow movement, freezing and balance problems, navigating busy stations and boarding trains can be particularly difficult. In addition, many Parkinson's symptoms aren't visible, such as anxiety and fatigue, and a lack of understanding can lead to judgement, or a hesitation to offer help.

We are proud to partner with Trainline who have designed this badge in consultation with the Parkinson's community. It is a significant step in creating a more inclusive travel experience and sends a clear message that a little patience can make a big difference. It empowers the public to be part of that positive change and gives more people with Parkinson's confidence on their journeys.”

The badges are now available to order for free from the Parkinson’s UK online shop.

For information and support, you can visit parkinsons.org.uk or call the free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.

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Ability Needs Magazine

drivemedical.co.uk info@drivedevilbiss.co.uk

Enhancing Lives Together

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WELCOME TO SCOOTER STORE LIMITED Scooter Store Limited is an established company with over twenty-ĨŝǀĞ LJĞĂƌƐ͛ ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ͕ ǁŚŝĐŚ has become very popular especially with the elderly and disabled community nationwide.

The concept is a small, secure store designed specifically for mobility vehicles, to be operated with minimal effort. This provides the user with more independence and effective storage for their scooter at home.

The Scooter Store was designed in response to a demand from the public as many mobility scooter users have struggled to store their scooters in living rooms, communal hallways etc, causing fire hazards and limiting their space. The Scooter Store is a fireproof, theft proof, compact alternative that will enable the user to securely store their scooter.

Our product has been extremely popular with the elderly and disabled community for over twenty-five years. tĞ͛ǀĞ worked with a multitude of local Housing Trusts/Associations, charitable organisations, County, City and Borough Councils to install Scooter Stores across the UK.

All Scooter Stores are manufactured from 2mm steel with a powder coated finish, push button controlled, fully lockable and include a socket for charging the scooter is provided inside the store.

Standard, Double and Bespoke sizes are available. The stores are delivered flat packed to allow installation to awkward sites. Stores can be relocated if required.

We also offer free site surveys to give advice on store locations, hard standing areas etc, if required.

Our Contact Details: Scooter Store Limited, Unit 11 Riverside Business Park, Cambridge Road, Harlow, CM20 2HE Tel: 01279 453565 www.scooterstoreltd.com info@scooterstoreltd.co.uk

Our hearing is important to us – so why don’t we check it?

Our new research has found that in the past year, many people had been for dental, eye and blood pressure checks, whereas only a tiny proportion of people had their hearing checked.

Of those we surveyed, 43% said they had blood pressure checks this year and 42% had dental and eye checks, compared to only 6% who had their hearing checked. Despite most people (almost 90%) saying that their hearing is important to them, only 7% said they would prioritise getting their hearing checked.

Over half of those who said they would not be likely to book a hearing check said this is because they didn’t think there was a problem with their hearing. This is despite the fact that more than half of the UK population aged 55 or more having hearing loss, which rises to almost 80% of people over the age of 70.

However, the good news is that looking after your hearing health doesn’t have to be hard and the first step on your hearing journey can start with our free online hearing check.

Hearing plays a critical role in our overall well6

being, yet having a hearing check appears to be under-prioritised by the UK’s general public when it comes to looking after your health, which can risk leading to living with undiagnosed hearing problems for many years.

Without the correct support or checks, undiagnosed hearing loss can lead to a variety of challenges like increased risk of depression.

Hearing loss often develops gradually and can be slow to spot, so people may not realise they are losing their hearing without a hearing check. If left unmanaged, people can risk slowly becoming more isolated from their friends and family and experiencing loneliness.

Our free online hearing check takes just three minutes and has already been taken by over 650,000 people to date. Results are delivered via email as soon as the test is completed, along with further information, advice and support.

To take the free online hearing check visit www.rnid.org.uk/information-and-support/takeonline-hearing-check Ability Needs Magazine

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2025

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Marsham Court Hotel Celebrates Five Wins at the Dorset Tourism Awards 2025 The Marsham Court Hotel is celebrating a remarkable night of success after taking home five awards at the prestigious Dorset Tourism Awards 2025, held in Weymouth on the 16 October 2025.

Family owned and operated for the last 37 years, the seafront hotel received: Gold – Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Business Silver – Regenerative Tourism Silver – Business Events Venue Bronze – Large Hotel of the Year In addition to these accolades, the Marsham Court was honoured with a special award for their Outstanding Contribution to Tourism, recognising the team’s exceptional commitment to promoting Bournemouth and the wider Dorset area as a leading visitor destination.

Rosie Radwell, Managing Director and Owner of the Marsham Court, accepted the awards with colleagues, Jane Langridge - Business Development Director and Simon Scarborough - Training and Development

Consultant. Rosie and her team play a significant role within the region’s tourism community, volunteering a lot of their time to various hospitality and tourism initiatives.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be recognised across so many categories this year,” said Rosie. “These awards reflect the incredible effort of our team and our ongoing commitment not just to our guests, but to the wider destination. Bournemouth’s tourism industry is stronger when we all work together, and I’m proud that the Marsham Court continues to lead the way in that”.

Located on Bournemouth’s iconic East Cliff, the Marsham Court Hotel has become a benchmark for inclusive hospitality, sustainability and community engagement – attributes that continue to set it apart as one of Dorset’s leading hospitality businesses.

To contact Marsham Court Hotel telephone 01202 552111 or visit www.marshamcourthotel.co.uk

Cumbrian Brewing Company Launches 'Pints With A Purpose' Supporting Accessible Outdoors Charity In 50th Anniversary Year And Beyond A Cumbrian beer company, the Crooked River Brewing Co, has announced a new three-year partnership with The Lake District Calvert Trust, a charity dedicated to enabling people with disabilities to experience the benefits of accessible outdoor adventure.

The partnership comes at a hugely exciting point in the life of the Lake District Calvert Trust. In 2026, the much-loved charity celebrates 50 years of making outdoor adventure accessible to all and Crooked River are the first business to announce their support in the milestone year.

As part of the collaboration, Crooked River’s Cask Pale will become the Calvert Trust Pale, with 10p from every pint sold donated directly to the charity. Over the course of the partnership, this is expected to generate significant funds to support the Calvert Trust’s mission.

The beer itself is a 3.4% easy-drinking pale ale made with Maris Otter malt and a combination of Magnum and

Citra hops, delivering a full-on citrus and tropical fruit flavour.

One of Crooked River’s core cask offerings, it’s designed to be an approachable, sessionable pint that now carries a purpose beyond the glass.

The partnership will run for three years, with new branded pump badges carrying the Calvert Trust logo and a QR code linking drinkers to more information about the charity and how their pint helps.

In addition to being available at the Crooked River Tap in Keswick, beer lovers can look out for Calvert Trust Pale in the coming weeks at The Pocket and As preparations continue apace for the 50th anniversary, the fundraising team at Calvert are keen to hear from other businesses who would like to explore how to support the vital services Calvert offer into their birthday year and beyond. Get in touch at fundraising@calvertlakes.org.uk.

For more information about The Lake District Calvert Trust, visit www.calvertlakes.org.uk.

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Ability Needs Magazine

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UK Shoppers Abandon Online Purchases During Peak Shopping Seasons Due to Accessibility Barriers, Reveals New AccessiWay Research AccessiWay - Europe’s leading digital accessibility provider - has released new UK consumer findings showing that accessibility issues are causing shoppers to abandon online purchases during the busiest retail periods of the year.

The research highlights how design and accessibility barriers shape online behaviour and suggests that improving accessibility could make seasonal sales more profitable for businesses.

Among shoppers with disabilities, 76% report that accessibility barriers would prevent them from shopping online during peak sales, and 80% experience difficulty using websites, apps, or digital services due to design or accessibility issues.

Accessibility challenges can affect anyone at some point in life, whether due to temporary injuries, pregnancy, or age-related changes, making this a widespread concern.

More broadly, over half (57%) of UK consumers say accessibility issues would put them off shopping online during major sales events, with the most common problems being small text, confusing navigation, and slow-loading pages. Gen-Z shoppers are the most affected, with 76% saying accessibility barriers would deter them, compared with 57% of Millennials.

It also revealed that experiences of accessibility barriers vary widely across the UK, with 67% of London shoppers and 62% of Scottish shoppers stating that these issues would deter them from buying online, compared with just 32% in Northern Ireland.

The research shows that women are more affected than men during peak shopping periods, with 63% of women saying accessibility problems would discourage them from shopping online, compared with 51% of men.

Women are also more likely to struggle using websites, apps, or digital services overall, with 65% reporting difficulties versus 56% of men.

The survey found 58% of respondents support stronger regulation for accessible digital services. This comes at a critical time as the EU’s European Accessibility Act (EAA), effective June 2025, sets new global standards, requiring UK businesses serving EU customers to meet higher usability and inclusive design criteria. Meeting these expectations is essential for businesses to remain competitive and inclusive in the evolving digital landscape.

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Amit Borsok, CEO and Founder of AccessiWay, said: “Our research shows just how widespread the issue is.

Fifty-seven percent of UK shoppers say accessibility problems would put them off buying during major sales periods like Black Friday, and Gen Z are the most likely to abandon a purchase. Many businesses don’t realise this is happening because customers simply move to a competitor without reporting the problem.

“Accessibility is a legal requirement across the UK, EU and many other markets, and a fundamental right for users with disabilities. Organisations that prioritise it are seeing clear benefits, including stronger online visibility, improved SEO performance and a more userfriendly experience for every customer.”

ABOUT ACCESSIWAY AccessiWay is Europe’s fastest-growing digital accessibility company, committed to making the internet truly inclusive for people with disabilities.

Founded in 2021, AccessiWay combines automation with human expertise to help organisations meet international standards such as WCAG 2.2 and the European Accessibility Act (EAA). With a team of over 120 specialists supporting more than 2,000 clients across Italy, France, Austria, Germany and the UK, AccessiWay works with organisations in e-commerce, finance, public services, education, and technology. In 2024, AccessiWay joined team.blue, one of Europe’s leading digital services providers, accelerating its reach, product innovation and compliance impact across the continent.

ABOUT TEAM.BLUE team.blue is a leading digital enabler for businesses and entrepreneurs across Europe (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United Kingdom). The company is made up of 60+ successful brands, including AccessiWay, who serve 3.5m SMB customers. team.blue is a trusted partner for web hosting, domains, e-commerce, online compliance, lead generation and application solutions, supported by 3500+ experts. team.blue's vision is to make business simpler by shaping technology and providing customers with innovative online products and services.

Ability Needs Magazine

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#mydrivingmobility

0800 559 3636 info@drivingmobility.org.uk drivingmobility.org.uk

Network of Independent Driving & Mobility Centres Helping you with driving, outdoor mobility and independence • Advice for drivers of all ages affected by restricted mobility • Driving and passenger assessments • Wheelchair and scooter assessments • Driving tuition • Retirement from driving • Vehicle adaptations • Provisional drivers • Mobility equipment loading

Find your local centre at:

drivingmobility.org.uk/find-a-centre Charity Registered in England and Wales No 298178. Company Limited by Guarantee No 2192584. © Driving Mobility, Vivian House, Newham Road, Truro. TR1 2DP.

Supported in England by:

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Medpage: Assistive Technology That Puts Safety and Dignity First

Medpage is transforming the way assistive technology supports independence and safety for disabled and vulnerable individuals.

Our range of thoughtfully designed products blends cutting-edge innovation with a deep respect for user dignity.

The MP31TX11 Fall Detection Alarm Bracelet with Caregiver Pager is a standout solution. This lightweight, waterproof wristband combines automatic fall detection with an SOS call button, instantly notifying caregivers. Its shower-safe, antimicrobial design preserves privacy, empowering users to maintain confidence in daily activities. The pager supports up to three sensors, ideal for home, care, or travel environments.

For those needing added mobility support, Medpage’s GPS Location Tracker Watch offers discreet fall alerts, SOS calling, and real-time location tracking. It’s perfect for users with dementia or mobility challenges, providing caregivers peace of mind without limiting freedom.

Memory support is enhanced by the MemRabel 2 Calendar Clock, which offers audio-visual reminders for medication and appointments, easing daily routines for those with cognitive impairments.

Medpage also champions accessibility. The Easy Press Pillow Switch & MPPL Pager Kit lets users with limited dexterity call for help with a simple press, while the Bed Leaving Pressure Mat with Pager alerts caregivers when someone leaves their bed, reducing nighttime fall risks.

For smart home integration, the Dual-Mode Alert Hub with Portable Call Pendant connects via the Smart Life app for remote and local alerts, ideal for supported living.

Together, these products offer a complete ecosystem of care. Medpage isn’t just providing devices, we’re empowering independence, safety, and peace of mind with every innovation.

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Innovating Solutions For Smaller Sizes Silvalea continues to lead the way in innovation, delivering specialist transfer solutions. With an expanding portfolio designed specifically for paediatric and small-stature patients, Silvalea is redefining what’s possible in next-generation care. Most importantly, these solutions are purpose-built rather than just scaled-down adult sizes, prioritising comfort, support, and safer handling.

Designed for use across clinical, community, and educational settings, the right equipment does more than assist with care — it promotes independence, inclusion, and dignity.

Gary Bevan, President and Director of Silvalea added: ‘’Silvalea have been at the forefront of sling transfer designs for all body shapes, working alongside healthcare professionals for over 30 years. This has enabled us to create a library of unique designs either available as off-the-shelf solutions or bespoke options where required.’’

One of our newest products includes the Small Air Comfort Deluxe V2 Chair, a versatile seating system for those who require optimum comfort and pressure redistribution. The Air Comfort technology allows the seating surface to contour naturally to the body, helping to reduce pressure points while providing full support. The tilt-in-space and recline options give an enhanced seating experience for patients of varying needs, and the adjustable wings and drop-down arms allow for easier side transfers.

Silvalea’s wider paediatric and small-stature offerings include supportive transfer slings for various scenarios, as well as rehabilitation-focused designs that assist with standing and walking development.

One of our most established solutions, the In-Situ Deluxe Leg in Superfine with COOLMAX® EcoMade fabric, has a divided, shaped leg design and offers full body and head support. Proven to be successful for a

Ability Needs Magazine

variety of scenarios, it remains one of our most popular sling styles.

A Paediatric Occupational Therapist from Devon added: "We love the paediatric In-Situ Deluxe Leg sling in Superfine for its lightweight design. It's helpful for children adjusting to being hoisted and still want to see their surroundings. Silvalea's paediatric products are excellent and designed with care.”

For more complex scenarios, such as those who have difficulty in maintaining body control, the Tinkham Sling is often a trusted choice. The padded head support, divided leg, and thoracic section offers full support and safety during transfers.

The Rachel Harness is part of our rehabilitation range, enabling children to safely engage in activities with stand and walk assistance. A lightweight design ensures a secure fit without restricting movement, allowing independence and empowering young people to take part with confidence.

In addition to this, Savaria’s Narrow Spreader Bar for Ceiling Hoists provides a reduced width and improved fit for paediatric slings, ensuring a better pick-up for safer transfers and enhanced user comfort.

At the heart of Silvalea’s paediatric and smallpersons range is a commitment to thoughtful design, clinical expertise, and exceptionally high-quality manufacturing standards — ensuring safer, more supportive care.

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Isaac Harvey MBE

Seeing the Good While Navigating a Broken System I never expected that a year filled with stress, uncertainty and system failures would also teach me something important about gratitude. When you live with a disability, you already carry enough challenges. Adding a broken system on top of that can make life feel heavy in ways that many people will never fully understand.

Over the past year, I faced situations that pushed me far beyond what I thought I could handle. There were days when support felt unreliable, days when decisions were made about my life without having me involved and days when I wondered how I was supposed to keep going. I also know many people in the disability community who face the same battles, often for years. It is a tiring experience to fight for basic needs in a system that should already be supporting you.

But even inside all that difficulty, something unexpected happened. I began to notice small silver linings.

A supportive and engaged advocate. Unexpected conversations that made me feel human again. Someone taking the time to listen. A care agency who made me experience what good care is.

These moments did not fix everything, but they reminded me that good people still exist in the middle of a broken process. They reminded me that even when things are falling apart, care and humanity can still shine through the cracks.

This shift in perspective linked back to something I had lost touch with over the past few years. In 2019, I reached a breaking point in my life. That was when I started learning about the law of attraction and building self16

awareness. I wanted to understand my thoughts, my emotions and why I reacted the way I did. I learned that the way we think, feel and speak becomes the reality we create. And for a long time, I saw how powerful that mindset could be.

But the last couple of years were different. Life became overwhelming. I found myself living on autopilot. I knew the tools. I knew the mindset. But I wasn’t using any of it.

Then something changed recently.

A conversation reminded me of what belief actually feels like. We spoke about how one small shift in the words we use… even changing “we will see” into “it will happen”, can change the direction of our whole life. It reminded me that intention matters. The way we speak to ourselves matters. The universe, or God depending on your belief, responds to the direction we choose.

That conversation helped me look back at my year and understand something new. The silver linings I found during these challenges were not random. They were reminders. Reminders that support can still be good.

Reminders that good people exist even when systems fail.

Reminders that I still have the power to shape my direction, even during the hardest moments.

So, as I move forward, I’m choosing belief again. I’m choosing intention. I’m choosing the small lights that appear even when life feels dark.

2026 is going to be a good year. And it will be… because I believe it will.

No matter who you are or what your situation is, challenges will always come. But so will the moments that remind you why you keep going.

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Supporting Occupational Therapists with inclusive and evidence-based books Jessica Kingsley Publishers launched their Healthcare list in 2022 to deliver bold and innovative content across a variety of topics in healthcare. Within this sits an entire list dedicated to occupational therapy, which brings together an ever-growing collection of resources that align with the values, realities and future considerations of occupational therapy practice. The list supports occupational therapists across a range of topics to help you deliver person-centred care.

JKP’s healthcare books don’t just focus on the conditions; instead, the books explore a range of topics that a rarely touched on, but impact the day-to-day actions of occupational therapists. The books focus on identity, theory, lived experience and inclusivity making the list relevant to OTs at every stage of their career and for students. Also available on this list are books about chronic illness, which can be read by OTs to gain the lived experience insight, but also by those with chronic illnesses themselves.

One example is the Life with a Chronic Illness bundle by Pippa Stacey, which brings together How to Do Life with a Chronic Illness and Pave Your Way with Chronic Illness: A Self-Discovery Journal. Both titles speak directly to lived experience; however, the journal in particular offers significant value for those living with a chronic illness, and OTs may find this a good resource to recommend to those in their care.

Designed as a guided, accessible journal, Pave Your Way with Chronic Illness supports individuals to look at things such as energy management, boundaries, values and daily priorities. All of which are themes that are central to OT interventions.

Practitioners can use this journal as a therapeutic tool to facilitate self-reflection and goal setting for patients. The journal's fluid structure makes it flexible and appropriate to use in a variety of settings, whether that’s one-on-one or group sessions.

More broadly, JKP’s Healthcare list champions person-centred and inclusive practices, so you can be assured that the titles address the many differences you encounter day to day. The books Ability Needs Magazine

address topics such as neurodiversity, chronic illness, disability and health inequalities and will help you to critically reflect on your own practice, challenge assumptions and work with your service users in a way that honours their lived experience.

The books are also valuable resources for professional development, as they acknowledge the complexities of healthcare work, whilst providing tools that are practical, usable and rooted in compassion. For OTs, these books will provide support and validation.

Available in print, eBook and audiobook, JKP’s Healthcare list provide support, knowledge and validation.

Visit uk.jkp.com for more information.

17

NAIDEX 2026: FIVE EVENTS, ONE INCLUSIVE VISION The UK’s leading disability, inclusion and accessibility event is entering a new era, unveiling a powerful new identity, a refreshed website, and two exciting new additions for 2026.

What’s new for Naidex 2026?

Who attends Naidex?

Naidex – The UK’s flagship event for accessibility and independent living.

Naidex brings together the disability community, families, friends and carers, alongside professionals who work in the sector. From mobility aids and rehabilitation technology to employment advice, family life, and entertainment, Naidex celebrates the disabled community, uniting people, brands, and professionals in one vibrant space.

Trade: Manufacturers, retailers and distributors of mobility and healthcare solutions, showcasing innovations and connecting with industry peers.

Professionals: Occupational therapists, neurorehabilitation specialists, DE&I managers, accessibility professionals and local authorities, attending to learn, share expertise and earn CPD accreditation.

Naidex 2026 brings together five shows under one roof, uniting communities and expertise in one powerful space:

Neuro Rehab – Championing breakthroughs in neurological rehabilitation and care.

Care & Dementia – The UK’s leading event for transforming social care and improving the lives of people living with dementia.

Naidex Junior – Celebrating inclusion for children and young people through play, participation and innovation.

Business Without Barriers – Empowering professionals and companies to create truly inclusive workplaces.

What does Naidex offer?

Naidex offers an environment that unites the entire disability community. It’s a place to connect, exchange

experiences and discover the latest life-enhancing products and services.

Visitors can test and purchase innovative equipment, take part in interactive sessions, and hear from experts and advocates who are shaping the future of accessibility.

Join the movement Naidex 2026 will take place on 25–26 March 2026 at the NEC Birmingham.

Naidex South, the new oneday regional roadshow, will debut on 9 September 2026 at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.

Register for free for Naidex at the NEC: www.naidex.co.uk.

ELLIE GOLDSTEIN Strictly Come Strictly Come Dancing Dancing Contestant Contestant

Model Model Actor Actor

Free Tickets

25-26 March 2026 | NEC Birmingham | www.naidex.co.uk

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Preparing for the colder weather: advice for powered wheelchair and scooter users When you head out on your scooter or powered wheelchair, it helps to be ready for whatever the weather brings. Winter weather can change quickly, so it’s even more important to plan ahead and stay prepared before you set off.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a few top tips for scooter and powered wheelchair users to stay safe and mobile in the colder months.

Stay Visible The shorter days mean it’s more likely you’ll be travelling outside of daylight hours. If you need to travel after dark, make sure you’re as visible as possible. Many larger scooters have lights, but if yours does not, it may be worth buying a high-visibility jacket or vest so that you’re more noticeable.

Protect the battery Cold weather can affect your scooter’s battery. Try to store your scooter away from the elements, ideally indoors, such as in a shed or garage.

If that’s not possible, keep it under cover to help stop the battery from freezing. In winter, your range can be lower, so it’s a good idea to charge your battery more often. And if you’re storing your scooter for a while, keep it topped up with regular charging.

Check the forecast Check the weather forecast before you travel. If you have a smartphone, you can download a weather app to keep an eye on changing conditions while you’re out.

If snow is expected, or is already falling, it’s best to avoid any journeys you do not need to make.

Plan your route If it’s icy, try to avoid hills by taking another route, and stay away from rural roads or places you know can be unsafe. This might add time to your journey, but it’s worth it to stay safe.

If you’re going further than usual, make sure your scooter or powered wheelchair is fully charged. You could also take your charger with you in case you need to top up the battery while you’re out.

Motability Assist If you break down, Motability Assist, provided by 20

Autohome, are on hand 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to get you and your scooter home safely. In the event of an emergency, you can contact them on 0800 953 5000.

You can also download the Motability Assist app for Apple and Android.

Once the app is downloaded on your phone, if you ever break down, simply open the app, click ‘Rescue me’ to generate a text message with the coordinates of your exact location and press send. Once you’ve downloaded the app, you can use it if you break down. Open the app, choose ‘Rescue me’, and it will create a text message with your exact location. Then press send.

Watch out for kerbs Fallen leaves can hide kerbs or make them look lower than they are, so try to use dropped kerbs and designated crossings wherever you can.

Your dealer should have explained the maximum kerb height that your product can climb, but if you’re unsure, please ask your dealer or refer to the manufacturer’s manual.

Pre-journey checks Before you set off, we recommend taking a moment to check the following: • Tyres: Are your tyres sufficiently inflated? Are there any signs of damage? If you notice anything, speak to your managing dealer for advice.

• Battery: Do you have enough battery charge to complete your planned journey? If you’re in any doubt, you might want to consider delaying your trip.

• Clothing: If you break down, will you be warm enough while you wait for recovery? If not, take an extra layer just in case.

• Medication: If you take any prescription medication, would an issue with your scooter impact when you next need to take this? If so, it might be worth taking it with you.

Speak to your dealer If you have any concerns about your scooter, speak to your dealer. It’s always best to get any issues checked out as soon as possible.

For more information visit www.motability.co.uk Ability Needs Magazine

ed) d

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Mark Bates Ltd Launches Game-Changing Mobility Equipment Register at Naidex When mobility equipment goes missing, it's not just a theft – it's the loss of independence, freedom, and confidence. At Mark Bates Ltd, we've spent over 30 years listening to the mobility community, and we've heard this concern repeatedly. That's why we're launching the National Mobility Equipment Register (NMER) at Naidex this year.

The NMER is a secure, centralised database where wheelchair users, scooter owners, and anyone relying on mobility aids can register their equipment. Think of it as a national registry that makes stolen equipment more traceable. When law enforcement recovers stolen items, they can quickly identify the rightful owner and return the equipment where it belongs. It's free to register and open to everyone across the UK. Mobility equipment theft is a growing problem across the UK. Losing your wheelchair or scooter can mean cancelled appointments, missed work, and weeks of being housebound while waiting for a replacement. The NMER creates a verified record of your equipment. When police recover stolen mobility equipment, they can quickly identify the rightful owner and return it.

Registration is completely free for all UK residents.

Registration also means you'll be directly notified if a manufacturer issues a safety recall or identifies a fault with your equipment. You won't need to rely on catching news of recalls through the media or hoping you spot a notice online. If there's a safety issue with your specific make and model, you'll know about it straight away.

The NMER is more than just a register. The site provides a comprehensive library of practical howto guides, detailed scooter safety tips, and an extensive FAQ section covering the questions mobility equipment users ask most often. Whether you're new to mobility equipment or an experienced user, you'll find reliable information and clear guidance when you need it. From maintenance and troubleshooting advice to Ability Needs Magazine

understanding your rights and what to do if something goes wrong, the resources are there to support you.

We're officially launching at Naidex, but readers of Ability Needs don't need to wait.

Register your equipment now at nmer.co.uk and be among the first to benefit from this protection.

Registration is free and straightforward. Once registered, your equipment is more traceable if stolen, and you'll be alerted to any safety issues that affect your specific make and model. You'll also gain immediate access to all the how-to guides and resources available on the site.

Register Your Mobility Equipment Today Don’t miss the vital information you need to keep your mobility equipment going.

Register today for access to helpful advice and guides as well as be kept up to date on product recalls, important repairs, safety information and help being reunited following loss or theft.

Find out more nmer.co.uk

21

Swift Lift The all new Swift Lift, from Des Gosling Mobility, is a compact boot hoist which allows for quick and easy loading of mobility devices weighing up to 60kg into the boot of a vehicle.

Packed with features to improve your experience, the Swift Lift does the heavy lifting so you can enjoy the journey ahead.

ELEVATE YOUR EXPERIENCE Thanks to its folding arm design, the Swift Lift is suitable for most vehicles including SUVs, Hatchbacks, Estates, and MPVs. In addition, various lifting attachments are available to suit all mobility devices. One hoist, endless possibilities.

Call Now to Book a Demonstration O1332 863 742

The Latest Product Innovation from Des Gosling Mobility has Arrived!

The Swift Lift occupies minimal space in the boot, maximising room for your mobility device and other luggage.

The folding arm removes any obstruction from your rear-view mirror when driving, and once folded down usually even allows the parcel shelf to be refitted if required.

The hoist arm is folded down in two simple stages after use to allow the boot to close.

Single-handed operation for folding and unfolding makes this a breeze.

Designed to suit almost every vehicle.

Effortlessly loads any mobility device up to 60KG. Easily transferable, no matter which car you choose next.

Optimised design to minimise distractions during your journey.

Zero power drain to protect the vehicle’s battery.

Available on the Motability Scheme.

Scan this QR code or go to www.desgoslingmobilityltd.co.uk for videos and more information of the Swift Lift online!

or email sales@desgosling.co.uk

AN_p24_p25 tanni RNIB_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 22/12/2025 18:03 Page 1

Tanni’s View Baroness Grey-Thompson DBE writes for Ability Needs It doesn’t feel like four years since the last Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and for some of that time the future of the event was in doubt.

Australia decided that it did not want to host the Games and securing another city took some time.

One of the questions was whether the Games are still as relevant today as they had been. Originally the Empire Games, they transitioned to the Commonwealth Games and were at the forefront of sports inclusion.

At a time when there were demonstration races at the Olympic Games from 1984 (LA was meant to organise a Paralympic Games but pulled out, so there was a temporary split with some athletes competing in New York and some in Stoke Mandeville) until 2004, the Commonwealths started to think about what they could do. They had also had wheelchair racing included and in Victoria there was a bigger programme, but there was a huge debate even happening during the event about whether they had full medal status and if it would be included on the medal table. Going into the Games we didn’t think it would be, and by the end of the Games they were.

Birmingham did a great job, and we expect similar from Glasgow. As with all major events, you never know where the pubic are going to connect and get 24

Ability Needs Magazine

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excited. The mechanical bull that was part of the opening ceremony became something that people wanted to have their photos taken with. The Perry the Bull hat sold out and you couldn’t get them for love nor money, although I am not sure I saw many people wearing them. I never found out how many they made but I am sure they could have sold a lot more.

The relevance of the Games is not in question.

For many of the smaller nations it is a chance to compete and win medals that they might not at the Olympic or Paralympics. For some of the bigger countries like Australia and New Zealand they have the chance to compete at many different levels but still relish every moment of it. For the UK we compete as home countries. Being Welsh I didn’t have that many chances to compete for them and it was pretty special. It also gives young athletes, as they are progressing through their career, the chance to be exposed to a higher level of competition.

I am looking forward so much to the next iteration. The inclusive element is one part of it but there are sports that stand out. Basketball has used a 3x3 format, which I was not sure about until I went and watched it. It was fast and fun and unpredictable, and it meant that smaller countries could take part. The cost of a basketball chair to play at this level is not cheap and it means that some of the smaller countries, where there are much fewer

numbers of disabled people, have a chance. A sport that I have also watched through the lens of these Games is Bowls. I feel it is similar to Curling. I watch it every four years and am hooked and then probably don’t watch it much in-between, but at this level it really is excellent, exciting and quite dramatic.

Another sport that I think does well at the Games is powerlifting, because it does not rely on expensive equipment. Wheelchair racing, which is also part of the programme, is a tough sport to get into and is also a challenge now because of the cost of the chairs. Swimming is one that feels like it is easy to access but not everywhere has access to facilities.

Eric Moussambani Malonga, who the media gave the nickname “Eric the Eel’, swam at the Olympics in 2000 repressing Equatorial Guinea having never swum in a 50m pool. He gained his place via the wildcard system, where places are giving to countries or people to enable the games to broaden the people who participate. This system has also been used in the Paralympics to give people a chance to step up and the Commonwealth Games helps with that transition for a lot of athletes. That is why they are still as relevant as they were and important for a lot of people who want to get into sport.

The dates are 23 July through to 2 August and the event schedule is available (with the caveat that they are subject to change).

Boost for Aberdeenshire Sight Loss Services

People in Aberdeenshire facing sight loss will continue to benefit from dedicated, one-to-one support as a new Eye Care Liaison Officer (ECLO) joins the local service.

The ECLO service, delivered locally by RNIB in partnership with Aberdeenshire Council, provides vital emotional and practical support to individuals throughout their sight loss journey. Continuing the vital support already provided in Aberdeenshire, the appointment of a new ECLO highlights a renewed commitment to ensuring that no one faces sight loss alone.

“Sight loss can be overwhelming, and people often leave clinic unsure of what comes next,” said James Adams, Director of RNIB Scotland. “The ECLO service ensures that individuals across Aberdeenshire have compassionate support to help them understand their options and feel less alone.”

ECLOs help guide people through their journey by offering reassurance, tailored advice, and information about services that maintain independence. This includes support with understanding clinical information, navigating benefits, accessing specialist equipment, and connecting with community groups and rehabilitation teams.

“Many people aren’t aware of just how much support is available after a sight loss diagnosis,” said Dawn Carnegie, the newly appointed ECLO for Aberdeenshire. “Aberdeenshire covers a wide area, and my local knowledge helps me signpost people to the right organisations and support close to where they live.

“Recently, I spoke with an 87-year-old woman living with age-related macular degeneration who told me she felt ashamed and ‘different’ because of her sight loss. She hadn’t realised there was a local support group meeting every month in her own town. After I shared information about the group, and with her daughter able to accompany her, she felt reassured knowing she wasn’t alone and that others were living with the same condition.”

Local residents can access the ECLO service over the phone, by contacting RNIB. The service is free, confidential, and available to anyone with concerns about their vision, whether newly diagnosed or living with an existing eye condition.

For more information call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk Ability Needs Magazine

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From fixing iPads to meeting Royalty - RNIB volunteers take trip to Windsor for State visit

RNIB volunteers Simon Holt and Jonathan Abro with Jo Keller and representatives from Guide Dogs at the reception held at Windsor to celebrate the importance of volunteering.

Two volunteers with sight loss visited Windsor to meet a Royal request and to explain how volunteering can bring communities together.

Jonathan Abro and Simon Holt, who both volunteer for RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People), were part of the reception team who shone a light on the tireless work of volunteers as they met HM The King and the President of Germany at an event at Windsor Castle.

The event marked an opportunity for Germany to explore the success of a volunteering initiative launched in Britain two years ago.

On the Bank Holiday Monday of the Coronation in May 2023, more than 7 million people joined in the Big Help Out while double that number tucked in at the inaugural Big Lunch across the UK as part of the new monarch’s focus on recognising the contribution of volunteers to British life.

Jonathan Abro, from London, who has retinitis pigmentosa and was part of RNIB’s team at the event, said: “What a privilege it is to be able to represent RNIB at this prestigious event at Windsor Castle.

“My volunteering role at RNIB includes providing tech support for other blind and partially sighted people to use their devices, which I do both in person and remotely. I love to travel and have even been recording my ongoing adventures for broadcast on RNIB Connect Radio, as well as speaking at awareness raising events.

“For me, volunteering with RNIB is all about trying to make a positive difference for other blind and partially sighted people.”

Simon, who is from Oxford, said: "Volunteering with RNIB has given me leadership, advocacy, and team working skills that I have been able to use in the rest of

my life, allowing me to fulfil my potential both at work and lead a more empowered, independent life.

"It was great to be able to share this with HRH King Charles and great to have our voice heard by our Head of State and the President of Germany too."

Last year, volunteers like Jonathan and Simon supported thousands of other people living with sight loss. Last year, 2,100 blind and partially sighted people were supported through RNIB telephone groups and more than £300,000 was collected through Sooty collection boxes in sites around the UK. Jo Keller, Head of Volunteering Strategy and Innovation at RNIB, said: “We were so excited to be invited to join this event celebrating the incredible scope of the work that volunteers do for so many charities including RNIB. We are elated that Jonathan and Simon were able to join us and share first-hand the benefits of volunteering they have experienced.

RNIB volunteers have been involved in the Big Help Out from its inception and what better way to build excitement for next June’s event than with a Royal visit.”

At the event, the President of Germany FrankWalter Steinmeier learnt more about the power of volunteering by hearing directly from volunteers telling their stories at the event, which was part of a packed programme for the three-day state visit hosted by the King and Queen. The visit, which began on Wednesday, is the first by a German Head of State to the UK this century.

After a successful event last year, the Big Help Out returns as part of Volunteers Week in June 2026.

Sharing enthusiasm for the power of volunteering, Germany will be holding its own special volunteering day on 26 May 2026.

For more information call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk 26

Ability Needs Magazine

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Thoughtfully engineered to support independence and future-proof the home, it delivers smooth and intuitive operation for everyday ease. With its lightfilled design and seamless integration into a wide range of interiors, the Symphony, launching in 2026, reflects Terry Lifts’ commitment to combining elegant design with practical innovation. Making beautifully accessible living a reality for more people.

For many homeowners, true comfort is about more than style — it’s about confidence, independence, and the freedom to enjoy every part of your home. You can trust Terry Lifts to think of everything; beautifully designed for modern interiors, the all-new Symphony Home Lift is a must-have upgrade for anyone looking to futureproof their home with ergonomic elegance.

Looks as Good as it Performs Practical home adaptations needn’t compromise on aesthetics. With its clean architectural lines, soft ambient lighting, and refined cabin styling, Symphony’s contemporary design fits seamlessly into your décor with a choice of 3 colours as standard.

Whether in a hallway, lounge or bedroom, its compact footprint works in harmony with the natural flow of your living space.

Arranged for Accessibility From the moment the door glides open, it’s clear every detail of the Symphony was created with real users in mind. Prioritising comfort, usability, and safety, this is everyday accessibility made beautiful.

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AN_p30_p31 Christian Brownlee_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 22/12/2025 17:08 Page 1

Cristian Brownlee The Best Mobility Aid Isn't a Wheelchair We spend our lives fighting for better ramps, lighter frames, and wider doors. But the world has changed.

The most powerful tool for independence is no longer physical. It is digital. Here is how to stop paying the "energy tax" and start competing on your own terms.

For decades, the economy has operated on a Factory Model. Even if you worked in an office, the underlying logic was industrial. You were required to be physically present, in a specific chair, for a specific number of hours. Success was largely a measure of stamina.

For those of us with disabilities, this model was not just inconvenient; it was an exclusion zone. The commute alone could consume a day’s worth of energy before the laptop was even opened. The office environment was designed for the "average" human, a mythical creature who never experiences pain, fatigue, or the inability to open a heavy fire door while holding a cup of coffee.

But the Factory Model is dying. It is being replaced by a digital economy that values output over presence.

This shift is not just about office workers wanting to avoid the rush hour commute. It is the single greatest opportunity for the disabled community in history.

The Energy Tax Let’s talk about the "Energy Tax." This is a concept 30

I live with every day. Every action I take costs me more energy than it costs an able-bodied person.

Getting dressed, transferring into my chair, navigating a pavement with no dropped kerb. By the time I sit down to work, I have already paid a significant tax.

In the old world, I had to pay that tax out of my work capacity. If I spent 40% of my energy getting to the office, I only had 60% left to do the job. That is a competitive disadvantage.

Technology is now offering us a rebate. The rise of sophisticated digital tools means we can offload the heavy lifting to software. We can automate the drudgery. We can achieve the same output as an ablebodied competitor, but with a fraction of the physical exertion.

Constraint-Driven Innovation There is a misconception that using technology to make life easier is "lazy." This is nonsense. It is strategic. In the business world, I call this "ConstraintDriven Innovation."

We are experts at this. If you navigate life in a wheelchair, or with a sensory impairment, or with chronic fatigue, you are constantly hacking your environment. You are finding the most efficient route, the quickest method, the way to get things done with minimal waste. You are a natural project manager because you have no other choice. When you apply that mindset to digital tools, you become dangerous.

You stop trying to work "harder" and start working smarter.

The Antigravity Effect Let me give you a concrete example from my own business, Rise Beyond Barriers. I recently needed to Ability Needs Magazine

er ed.

AN_p30_p31 Christian Brownlee_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 22/12/2025 17:08 Page 2

migrate our website to a new technical platform. As a web developer, I know exactly what this entails. I could have done it manually, but it would have taken me a few days of solid, tiring work.

Instead, I used a new tool from Google called Antigravity. To put it simply, it is a highly advanced digital assistant.

I didn't have to manually write every line of code or move every image. I simply told the system what I wanted and described the outcome. The software handled the heavy lifting. What would have taken a small dev team a full day was finished before lunch. I saved my energy for the thinking, the strategy, and the creative decisions. The software paid the energy tax for me.

ur

Sto p F ittin g In . Star t Bu ildin g.

We all know that the "Care Model" has its place.

We need support and we need accessibility. But we must also embrace the "Capability Model."

We need to stop waiting for the traditional workforce to build us a ramp. The digital world has no stairs. It has no heavy doors. It does not care if you are typing with your hands, your voice, or your eyes. It only cares about the value you create.

My advice is simple. Do not look for work that merely "accommodates" you. Look for tools that empower you. Use the new wave of artificial intelligence and digital assistants to do the grunt work.

Hoard your energy for the things that matter.

Your disability has given you a unique perspective on problem-solving. It has taught you resilience that your able-bodied peers cannot imagine. Now, technology has given you the leverage to use it.

The barrier to entry has never been lower. The vault is open. Roll right in.

Cristian Brownlee is a T4 SCI wheelchair user and the founder of Rise Beyond Barriers. A Dragons’ Den alumnus and winner of the UK Disabled Entrepreneur of the Year award, he argues that disability is not a deficit, but a driver of innovation. He currently advises global boards on turning constraints into capability.

Stairclimber flexibility helped Mat inside AND out

stepped in again. SMax has the flexibility to adapt to a wheelchair, by removing the seat and adding brackets.

Jenny no longer had to lift Mat from stairclimber to wheelchair to go out and about.

And, as the Council already had the appropriate AAT accessories in its equipment stores, no additional funding was required.

“Mat was like the Duracell bunny- he just kept going. His legacy will be that our experience can help show other people facing a similar situation that with the right support and equipment, you do not have to be confined to the downstairs of your home,” says Jenny.

“I always say every day’s a school day: we’re always learning! Until you’re in that position, you’ve no idea what’s out there. The stairclimber was an absolute life saver, an amazing piece of equipment. It gave us some independence. Without that piece of equipment Mat and I would have had no way of leaving the house together.”

Mathew Laban could not weight bear, stand or walk because of a brain tumour, spinal fractures and osteoporosis.

One of his pleasures in life was a bath.

The size and configuration of the family home in Bradford made it impossible for him to have that enjoyment.

AAT’s S-Max stairclimbing wheelchair changed that. And gave him the opportunity at the end of his life to safely and easily navigate the steps to outside and enjoy some fresh air and the sun on his face.

It was the result of teamwork and good communication between Mat’s partner Jenny, the family’s Occupational Therapist and AAT. Using the S-Max in its Sella variant (with integral seat), Jenny could safely take Mat upstairs to relax in the bath in the way he loved- with a cup of coffee and a biscuit.

And they were no longer confined to the house: using the S-Max Sella, Jenny could take Mat over the front door’s raised threshold, down the stone steps to the pavement where she would transfer him to his wheelchair.

Physical strain on Jenny was reduced, and both their mental health was improved.

When Mat’s condition deteriorated to the point that external transfer was becoming difficult for Jenny, AAT Full details of S-Max, including video of Matt and Jenny traversing their outside steps and how to book a free no obligation assessment, can be found @ www.aatgb.com/s-max-sella/ Ability Needs Magazine

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EDGA launches “You Can” campaign to empower Golfers with Disability

EDGA (European Disabled Golf Association) unveiled its new campaign, “You Can”, at the international not-forprofit organisation’s recent annual assembly in Portugal.

“You Can” seeks to encourage brand new golfers with a disability through the shared personal experiences of established players. Their highly positive messages and stories aim to ignite the imagination of others to join in and try the game.

While “You Can” is all about putting each golfer first, inspiring each individual to dream, it enhances EDGA’s mission to make golf truly inclusive for people with a disability.

The campaign launch coincided with the EDGA Algarve Open at Pestana Vila Sol (November 21-22) – welcoming a field of golfers from around the world with a range of disabilities – and the organisation’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

During the event, a new EDGA book was presented for the first time – called Changing Lives – that tracks the evolution and key milestones of EDGA, while players were presented with a memento to commemorate a quarter of a century and the launch of “You Can”.

Now live across EDGA’s digital touch-points and rolling out through member countries (EDGA advises and supports 50 national golf federations), the “You Can” campaign is designed to empower individuals with disability to see golf as a sport where they truly belong.

Its central message, “You Can Play Golf”, is supported by three powerful themes: Make Friends, Compete, and Improve Health. Together, these emotive messages reflect the broader impact of golf beyond the course.

“With 'You Can’, we’re flipping the script,” said Scott Bennett, Head of Marketing at EDGA. “This isn’t about inclusion as an afterthought, it’s about representation that feels real, powerful, and personal. Golf can offer confidence, health, community, and competition, and this campaign reflects exactly that. We wanted to make sure this project speaks to people with disabilities, not just about them.”

The EDGA team feels that unlike many sports 32

campaigns in which disability is added almost as a side note, “You Can” was built by, and for, the G4D (Golf for the Disabled) community.

Crucially, every image, message, and story is drawn from real players and their lived experiences. It highlights the diversity of disability, not just the most commonly represented, and brings to life the barriers, breakthroughs, and benefits that only those with firsthand experience can truly articulate.

Rita Sampaio, the designer who created the campaign for EDGA pro bono, said: “The concept behind this campaign is ability, regardless of the limitations each person may have. The focus is on the player and their skill in the game of golf. ‘You Can’ is a message of empowerment, an invitation for more people with disabilities to experience this inclusive sport. We want every person with a disability to see it and think, ‘Yes, I can do that too.’ Everyone featured is a real golfer, with a true story. That’s what gives the campaign its strength.”

With QR codes on all materials linking to deeper content: videos, interviews, and written stories, “You Can” encourages confident participation through honest storytelling. The campaign is designed to reach future players where it matters most: including in rehabilitation centres, hospitals, and community spaces. And thanks to its adaptable branding, member countries can tailor the messaging while staying aligned to a unified, global movement.

The “You Can” materials are now integrated into the EDGA 8-Stage Programme, which is supported by The R&A and explores: getting started; locations (assisting venues); the workforce; communication; encouraging new and regular players; competitions and events; professional coaching education; and legacy.

Through this programme, EDGA aims to support the growth and capacity of national federations as they work to attract individuals with a disability to the game of golf.

See more on the work of EDGA at www.edgagolf.com

Ability Needs Magazine

Going. On. Holiday.

Being able to normalise 24-hour care needs by having all Tilly’s needs met in an accessible hotel took the pressure off us as a family. A profiling bed meant Tilly could sleep at a 30-degree angle to avoid her aspirating. That one element of our stay alone made the journey worth the effort! To have our food blended to the exact consistency for Tilly, through to accessing the hydrotherapy pool most days, was game changing.

By Dee Cowburn

A phrase uttered by many families during the summer holidays yet loaded with more significance when you have a family member with additional needs.

Will we be able to cope? Does the hotel have a nearby hospital?

Does it have a ceiling tracking and a hoist, a warm pool, wheelchair accessibility or blended food? Can we cope with the feelings of vulnerability, worry, being out of our comfort zone and away from our usual medical facilities?

These are our key considerations because we have a nine-year-old daughter Tilly, who has Rett Syndrome, which is a rare neurological life-limiting condition which means she has 24-hour care needs.

Tilly, who has a ten-year-old sister Thea, is in a wheelchair, has an 83-degree curve in her spine, cannot use her hands, is tube fed a blended diet, cannot transition between postures, is non-verbal and has weak bones. This means we are reluctant to travel too far from home, so Jersey felt like a suitable compromise.

When we heard about Maison Des Landes, we thought it would be perfect for us. And it was!

We packed up the van and drove to Poole to travel on the DFDS fast ferry, with great passenger assistance, parking right next to the lift, and support if we needed it.

Maison Des Landes has undergone a major refurbishment in 2023 and everything it does is geared towards accessibility and supporting people with a variety of needs. From the space for wheelchairs, to the profiling bed, to the tracking and hoist, to the lowered tables for Tilly’s wheelchair to get underneath, it was a magical place to stay.

Steve Martin, the General Manager, is approachable and dynamic, making accessibility feel like the most natural thing in the world.

maisondeslandes.co.uk

Where do I start with accessible activities in Jersey?

Wetwheels Jersey involved going out on an adapted motor catamaran with volunteer captains to sail around the bay of Jersey with both girls getting the chance to steer the boat.

Beachability meant we could rent a specially adapted wheelchair to go onto the beach.

We also visited the Jersey War Tunnels, Jersey Pearl, Jersey Zoo and Healing Waves, where Tilly enjoyed stretching out in their sensory room while lying on the waterbed.

Maison des Landes is an exceptional facility in a beautiful place, offering life changing holidays for families like ours.

Going.On.Holiday will now have the same meaning for us that it has for families who don’t have a child with a life limiting condition - a time to have fun, create memories and put everyday responsibilities to one side.

To book or discuss your specific requirements, please call the hotel directly on 01534 481683 or email reservations@ maisondeslandes.co.uk.

MaisondesLandesHotel

maisondeslandes

Maison des Landes

AN_p34_Portland + Artist_02_AN107.qxd 28/12/2025 10:57 Page 1

Specialist College Described As ‘Life-Changing’

Portland College has achieved a national charity award in recognition of its work to improve support for autistic people

A national specialist college in Mansfield, Portland College, has gained the National Autistic Society’s Autism Specialist Award Advanced Status for specialist providers in sectors including education, social care and the justice system.

Portland College is a specialist college supporting people with disabilities for 75 years, a residential care provider and Centre of Excellence for Autism.

The two day assessment, which drew on a wide range of evidence including observations, learner and parent feedback, survey data and case studies, took place in June this year and management received a glowing report from the assessors.

The report stated: “Portland College demonstrated a high level of quality and consistency in aligning with the principles of person-centred, evidence-informed support for autistic students.

“Students described Portland as a happy, inclusive place where they enjoy friendships, sensory supports, and meaningful learning experiences. Parents echoed this sentiment, consistently praising the college’s person-centred

A small number of the teaching and support staff at Portland who all play a crucial role in supporting learners at the college

ethos, professionalism and the visible progress in their children’s confidence, communication and independence.”

Angela Newton-Soanes, Principal at Portland College, is thrilled with the result; “This fantastic recognition is testament to the hard work and dedication from all staff at Portland. Their deep understanding of autism and our learners make our college a happy and inclusive space.”

Christine Flintoft-Smith, Head of Autism Accreditation and Projects at the National Autistic Society, said: “We are delighted that Portland College has achieved the Autism Specialist Award. The team should be exceptionally proud of their achievement and commitment towards improving support for autistic people.”

The National Autistic Society’s Autism Accreditation Programme is the UK’s only autism-specific quality assurance programme of support and development for all those providing services to autistic people.

For more information visit www.portland.ac.uk

Turner Prize win marks new dawn for disabled artists, says mother of Down’s syndrome painter The choice of a learning-disabled and Guardian and Daily Telegraph writer. sculptor as this year’s Turner Prize Fiona is, in fact, a former member of winner is ground- breaking news for the organisation at which Nnena has other artists with disabilities, says the been a resident artist for quarter of a mother of a painter with Down’s century, with Nnena’s selection syndrome. suggesting it is an excellent incubator for Nnena Kalu’s historic win marks a disabled artists. turning point in the view of art created by Mark continued: “Fiona’s work practitioners who live outside the superficially reminds me of certain kinds traditional view of what an artist should of art which were going on in the 1950s, be, says Mari Stevenson, whose particularly the kind based on very daughter Fiona Stevenson creates bold intuitive abstract gestural ways of getting abstract works which reflect her own paint on canvas, with origins in surrealist perception of the world. automatism. Here the artist doesn’t “Their work can now sit in the come with premeditated ideas. They just mainstream, alongside that of let everything come from the neurotypical, non-disabled artists,” she subconscious.” said.

It is Fiona’s emotional connection Fiona’s work has been likened to that Aboriginal Dreamtime, acrylic on canvas with the world which drives her painting. of ‘outsider artists’ from the surrealist She has worked every day for more than a movement by renowned art critic Mark Hudson, who visited decade with passion, with her paintings exhibited in New her studio in Hertfordshire ahead of its official opening next York and London. year.

Fiona’s studio in Hertfordshire will open in 2026. See “The surrealists were great champions of what we’d now some of Fiona’s work, and ask to be added to the private call outsider artists,” said the Independent's chief art critic view guest list, here: https://www.fionastevenson.co.uk 34

Ability Needs Magazine

Tech that transforms lives

Empowering independence at Derwen College

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echnology is transforming everyday life at Derwen College by enabling students to communicate and build independence in their community. The right digital tools empower students with SEND to take greater control of their learning and their lives.

Based in Shropshire, Derwen College is a specialist further education college for young people aged 16–25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Here, technology removes barriers and opens up opportunities. Students may have digital support in their vocational pathways as well as within their care, communication and independent living situations.

Collaboration is key, and our IT team works closely alongside teachers, care and support staff, therapists and nurses to ensure technology is carefully matched to each learner and seamlessly embedded into daily routines.

In residential settings, acoustic monitoring systems help keep students safe and settled overnight, minimising sleep disruptions whilst providing reassurance to families. In shared living and work spaces, smart speakers allow students to control lighting, play music and set reminders – small actions that support choice and autonomy. For those with sensory needs, the ability to personalise their environment can make a real difference to comfort and engagement.

Assistive technology is especially vital for learners with more complex needs. Students on the College’s Nurture programme,

who either have profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) or Complex Learning Disabilities (CLD), will use eyegaze technology to communicate, make choices and connect with others. For non-verbal students, this has been life-changing, enabling them to express emotions, share preferences and indicate pain or discomfort – reducing frustration and improving wellbeing.

Derwen College also invests in specialist technologies such as SoundBeam, which transforms physical movement into sound. This allows students like Timothy to experience the joy of making music and controlling their environment, opening up new opportunities for creative expression.

Innovation at Derwen College is often bespoke. Our IT team use an in-house 3D printer to design and produce customised bespoke grips and handles.

This allows those students with limited mobility the chance to feed themselves, prepare food or even enjoy gaming.

Off campus, technology is supporting real-world learning in Independent Living Skills (ILS) sessions. A recent collaboration saw the College ILS team and Student Council join forces with

the local Co-op to co-design a bespoke Shopping GRID for iPads. The Shopping GRID is a tool that helps students manage shopping lists, track spending and communicate confidently with shop staff. For learners like Felix, structured prompts and communication supports have made a real difference, reducing the need for staff assistance and enabling him to take charge of his own shopping.

On a recent trip, Felix independently found all the items on his list, kept track of his spending, and confidently used the iPad to ask a staff member, “Please help me to find cucumber?” He was able to pay by himself and thanked the staff member for their help. Felix was delighted to be shopping so independently.

At Derwen College, we believe technology should be about giving every young person the tools to shape their own future. By embedding digital solutions into daily life and learning, the college is helping students build practical skills, self-confidence and a sense of autonomy that lasts far beyond their time at College.

Find out more about how Derwen College supports young adults with SEND into adulthood at www.derwen.ac.uk

Our pathways and programmes are tailored to meet individual student needs in preparation for adulthood

www.derwen.ac.uk

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starting with who, what, why, and where.

Who is the product for? In this case we will assume that it is for Grandma.

What is her mobility issue?

It could be arthritis, a horrible illness, vertigo, an injury or even respiratory problems. (It is often more than one problem).

What is her best option? A walking frame? A mobility scooter? A wheelchair?

Where does she need to go with this item and where is the best place to buy one?

Often the entry level for assistance may be a walking frame (in the industry they call it a rollator).

There is a huge range of rollators on the market.

There are versions available for indoor use only. If, however, there is a need is to visit family, the doctors or local shops, a good rollator will become her best friend. They come in a host of designs. Some will fold to fit in the boot of a car and if this is an issue, then the weight is important. Some have 3 wheels. Most have 4 and these usually offer more stability.

Similar factors apply to wheelchairs. For our grandma the chair will need to be pushed by someone. Be warned, even if she is a fly weight, pushing wheelchairs is strenuous.

Next on the shopping list could be a mobility scooter. Once more there is a multitude of options.

Whilst there are 3 wheeled versions available, 4 wheels (or more) are most popular, again for stability reasons.

It is worth noting, that these products are, at first, a trifle tricky to understand. They operate by a seemingly reverse logic. To move, grandma needs to

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Let me explain! We are very fortunate to live close to a lovely county town which boasts easy access to some splendid rolling countryside. I like to walk. I do it every day and I find the experience useful for clearing my brain whilst benefitting physically from this modest exercise. So, what of this letter box?

In the distant past I would run, not walk. Indeed, I once took part in the London Marathon. My legs remember it well, and in case you are wondering, I did finish the race, in under 4 hours. Actually, my time was 3 hours 58 minutes plus some extra seconds of total agony! I was not dressed as a cucumber or a fridge although I did have a cosy chat with a letter box at the start line. I have often wondered how he is these days. Does he now compete in Iron Man races in fancy dress? That marathon was the peak of my athletic endeavours. Why else would I still remember the time I took!

I mention all of this simply to emphasise the importance of maintaining mobility as the years advance. Mobility should not be taken for granted. I am a fortunate fellow, spending a career in the industry which supplies mobility to those who struggle to walk at all. Hopefully this article will provide some assistance to anyone who may be considering the challenges of staying vertical and mobile.

Whether the product is for you personally or an ailing or elderly friend/relation, it is worth asking a few very simple questions to start with. By simple I mean

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I once had a conversation with a letter box.

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AN_p36_p37_eddiepea_40+44_AN107_Long.QXD 22/12/2025 16:38 Page 2

" " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " Eddie Peacock has worked in the mobility industry for “rather a long time”. He enjoyed a challenging " career " having " " started " " " scooters " "" by" selling wheelchairs, and stairlifts for Sunrise Medical, eventually working his way to the position of UK sales manager. After a period as a self-employed consultant he

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" " was invited to "manage " movingpeople.net, " " " then Handicare " " Ltd, " in" the" UK. In recent " years he held the for Mobility which and" working with the BHTA. "post of" Marketing " " " "Manager " " " also involved" supporting "

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He has now retired and is looking forward to finding the time to perform useful tasks in the industry, playing and " "drums " " in a blues "band, travelling " " most" important, " " " being silly with " "his grandchildren.

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pull a lever and, curiously, to stop she simply has to customers who discover all sorts of problems when an " This design" makes " the " vehicle " " very safe. " In an" " expensive and" often heavy " let go! product is delivered in a the " emergency " she just " releases " " lever, the "scooter " " huge " " box with " only" a booklet of instructions. A good stops. will high quality after " " " " " " " " " " " local dealer " " give" you " thoughtful, " I would recommend that for complete safety and sales assistance. He will deliver and commission the " " " " buying" from" a mobility" shop is""crucial. At satisfaction, product and even help in a few weeks’ time when any reputable shop, all of your important questions grandma has forgotten how to turn the thing on! I can " " be" answered. "Indeed, they " will " often discover " " " " " will vouchsafe this as I know dozens of these good folk had " " " other matters " that "you" probably " " not even thought " " " " " personally. place to conduct some " " of! Are grandma’s " " eyes in decent " shape? " " Where will " " The" internet " is an excellent " she store it and charge it? How much does she weigh research. You can find lots of information with the aid " " and " which "is the model " suitable" for her? " You " will then " " "of our friend " Google! " " You will also find some very low " " also " be able " to" take" the scooter " on a test " drive. " This " " prices. " What " you" will" not find " is someone to come and especially if she is taken outside in " " " is very " important, " " " " " "help " when, " " 3 months " later, grandma has a problem. A the local environment. mobility scooter will provide her with freedom, " " buying anything will inevitably mean Nowadays, confidence and independence but always remember considering the internet. Here is a friendly tip, and this that it is a machine and it needs to be understood. It " " my "personal view." I recommend " " is also carrying " "a precious " " is just that when " human cargo, so saving products " " " buying " mobility " " of any " " type you should" enlist" " pounds" in the short" term can be dangerous. some the assistance of a professional supplier that you and this is a regular " " " " " " " " " "Price is obviously " "important, " trust. Safety and security should be top of your challenge for the local mobility shop. Online " " " " " " " " " " " " shopping list. Buying mobility products from the businesses will mostly be cheaper. Using your local " " internet "has inherent "" risks. chap initially and then buying on the internet can lead

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" "We all visit "the internet " for cheaper " " prices. " " This is " " fine for books " and " a host of other" items but" for safety " and security, we recommend seeing, touching and " trying " " the products " " before " buying. " It "is safer and " will " " save you money in the long term. I have heard countless examples of disappointed and frustrated Ability Needs Magazine

you into problems. You should not be surprised if, after using his advice and then buying elsewhere, he is reluctant to help when (or if) grandma needs help.

This is a delicate area that requires diplomacy, and our advice is to put safety first.

Finally, I regularly see a few grandmas taking part in “fun runs” locally, but none dressed as a letter box…one lady does sport balloons and a personalised number plate.

Freedom, mobility, independence and still having " " What " bliss. " " fun….

" " " "To contact " " Eddie" send an email to

info@abilityneeds.co.uk or write to him at Ability Needs, 5 Merrick Road, Kilmarnock, KA1 3TA 37

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Unzippd Launches Groundbreaking BSL Feedback Tool Across Wandsworth NHS GP Practices

Award-Winning Unzippd Launches Inclusive Feedback Solution for the Deaf Community Across NHS GP Practices in Wandsworth Unzippd, the award-winning UK tech company revolutionising how Deaf, British Sign Language (BSL) users engage with organisations, is launching its inclusive and accessible feedback solution across a cohort of NHS GP practices in Wandsworth from 1 December 2025.

This landmark rollout marks the first time NHS primary care services in the UK will offer a fully integrated BSL video feedback and enquiry solution, ensuring Deaf patients can share their experiences, raise concerns, and give feedback in their own language, without barriers and without needing an interpreter.

Founded by BSL Interpreter & CEO Rob Troy (Lambeth) and Data Scientist and Pharmacist, Adenrele Komolafe, CTO (Southwark), Unzippd enables Deaf individuals to give feedback, raise enquiries, and even apply for jobs in BSL - all from their own devices.

Organisations receive responses in English, making communication seamless, efficient, and genuinely

inclusive.

“Deaf people often don’t leave feedback or participate in patient experience surveys because they’re in written English,” explains Co-founder Rob Troy.

Sophoan Britton, Operations Manager at the participating Brocklebank GP Practice says, “We’re excited to be part of this pilot to give BSL users a different method to share their views – in their own language. By enabling feedback in BSL, we’re breaking down communication barriers, valuing lived experience, and ensuring every voice is heard."

The Wandsworth launch follows Unzippd’s recent national recognition as a winner of the Sage Small Business XI 2025 competition, which honoured the company for its innovation, social impact, and commitment to improving accessibility for Deaf communities across the UK. The partnership will allow participating GP practices to gather authentic Patient Experience data directly in BSL, strengthening insight, improving service design, and removing long-standing linguistic barriers to feedback and engagement.

For more information, please contact Rob Troy at hello@unzippd.co.uk or visit https://www.unzippd.co.uk.

Impressive’ Orwell Place car park among the first in the UK to achieve Park Access EV award

Orwell Place car park in Dovercourt is one of the first in the UK to earn a prestigious new national award for electric vehicle charging facilities.

The Park Access EV award, part of the Safer Parking Scheme run by the British Parking Association (BPA), sets high standards for car parks that provide safe, well-managed spaces and ensure that EV charging points are easy to use for everyone, regardless of accessibility needs.

Opened by Tendring District Council (TDC) on the former site of Starlings Garage and the Queens Head Hotel in 2023, Orwell Place is more than just a car park. It includes public toilets, attractive landscaping, and doubles as a community event space, hosting seasonal attractions such as a Christmas market and Easter fair.

Councillor Mick Barry, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Car Parks, said the award demonstrates the council’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability. “We’re delighted that Orwell Place has achieved the Park Access EV award – one of the first car parks in the UK to do so. It shows how serious we are about making our facilities inclusive and future ready.

“Orwell Place is a great example of how we’re combining 38

accessibility with modern features like EV charging to meet the needs of our community.”

The Park Access EV accreditation enables drivers to identify car parks and EV charging facilities that are safe, well-managed, and accessible for all users.

Naomi Parsons, BPA Area Manager, said only four car parks nationwide have achieved the new accreditation so far.

“Orwell Place car park is a very impressive car park which has successfully met all the criteria for Park Mark, including management and operations,” she said.

“This means the car park is also accessible for all users and therefore achieves the standards for the Park Access EV award.”

For more information visit https://www.britishparking.co.uk/Schemes To find Park Mark awarded car parks visit www.parkmark.co.uk

Ability Needs Magazine

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Motability Scheme updates: your questions answered We know recent changes to the Motability Scheme after the Autumn Budget have raised questions for many customers.

VAT, tax changes and costs The Government has announced some tax changes that influence how we run the Motability Scheme. These include VAT on Advance Payments and Insurance Premium Tax. Both will be included on Scheme leases from July 2026.

These tax changes increase the overall cost of providing the Scheme. That’s why we’re reviewing how the Scheme works, so we can absorb these costs where possible.

It was also announced that brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz have been removed from the Scheme, as we refocus on practical, affordable mobility.

We’ll continue to share clear, up-to-date guidance as more details become available.

As we pass on savings from tax exemptions to customers pound for pound, VAT on Advance Payments will increase costs. Our plan is to make changes so we can absorb these costs where possible.

In relation to the EV 3p per mile tax, there are no changes right now. The proposed pay-per-mile tax will not start until April 2028, and the Government have not confirmed any details yet.

Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), often known as road tax, is not changing as a result of the Autumn Budget for Scheme customers.

Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) and adaptations will continue to be exempt from VAT and Insurance Premium Tax (IPT).

No immediate changes are planned for scooters and powered wheelchairs. We’ll continue offering scooters and powered wheelchairs while reviewing pricing to ensure long-term sustainability..

Reviewing the Scheme and changes before July For the next six months, we’ll be taking a look at what we include in the Scheme and how we manage costs. This review will help us keep the Scheme affordable and sustainable. Our priority is protecting our core package, including insurance, maintenance and breakdown cover, while keeping prices fair.

Before any changes are made, we’ll look closely at how they could affect customers and will work with Ability Needs Magazine

the Motability Foundation.

For now, the Scheme is operating as normal which means you can place an order for your next vehicle three months before the end of your lease..

Mileage, driving limits and lease terms For cars, the current mileage allowance is 20,000 miles per year on a standard three-year lease (60,000 miles in total).

For WAVs, your five-year lease package includes a mileage allowance of 100,000 miles or 60,000 miles for a three-year lease in a Nearly New WAV. Mileage is one of several areas we’re reviewing as part of our wider update. Before any changes are made, we’ll look closely at how they could affect customers and will work with the Motability Foundation.

Our focus is on keeping a strong core package, including essentials like insurance and breakdown cover, while keeping prices fair.

Vehicle choice and removed brands Premium brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi and Lexus have been removed. These cars tend to be higher cost vehicles that sit outside the Scheme’s focus on essential, practical mobility.

There has been no change to the WAVs available on the Motability Scheme. Essential vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are still available, these are commercial vehicles adapted for wheelchair access.

Ordering or renewing your next car If you are waiting for a new car, your application will go ahead as planned, and your order will continue as normal, even if the vehicle is no longer available on the Scheme.

Will my current Motability Scheme lease or payments change?

No. The terms of your current lease and payments will not change. We expect changes to the Scheme for new leases from July 2026. We’ll keep you updated.

The market may be changing, but our commitment is not. We’ll keep doing what matters most: providing reliable, good-value mobility and supporting you every step of the way.

For more information visit www.motability.co.uk 39

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Le Gus gyro-based electric wheelchair from AddMobility AddMobility.com added the French designed and built Le Gus gyrobased wheelchair from GusNGo during the autumn.

The gap in the market for a lower profile and priced chair was obvious and its ability to go under a desk or table more easily is, without a doubt, a boon for the office, work, home environment and is, of course, also excellent in the outdoors.

The gyro of Le Gus was built from the ground up with integrated safety features combined with the benefits of a small turning circle, adjustable arms, an integrated mobile phone that comes with Le Gus. There is a complete range of colours and personalisation’s which can create a unique mobility chair.

GusNGo and AddMobility are excited that we can now offer Le Gus in the UK.

For more information about Le Gus contact: Sales@addmobility.com

Royal Borough of Greenwich reduces housing waiting list for wheelchair users by 42% The Royal Borough of Greenwich has reduced the number of households waiting for a wheelchair accessible council home from 256 to 147 over the past year.

This is largely thanks to a huge increase in the amount of social housing the council has built since 2019, 10% of which is adapted for wheelchair users.

Most of the reduction has been in the number of people waiting for a two bedroom property, which is by far the most popular size of accessible new build council home.

Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich said: “When we set up the 1,750 home Greenwich Builds programme, we made it our mission to reduce the unacceptably high number of people waiting for a place to live that was adapted for wheelchair users.

“We have met our target of making one in 10 homes wheelchair accessible, resulting in a fantastic 42% reduction in the number of households waiting for these properties. With hundreds more homes currently under construction we believe it will be possible to continue this trend with further reductions in the coming months and years, transforming life for this group of residents.”

The council’s drive to build new accessible homes doesn’t just benefit tenants, it is also more efficient than carrying out expensive adaptations to existing buildings 40

to modify them for wheelchair use. Figures from other local authorities indicate that the saving could be as much as £1m per 80 homes.

The current total of all new social housing delivered by the council since 2020 is 588, with hundreds more under construction. One in 10 are wheelchair adapted and this is expected to lead to further reductions in the waiting list for accessible homes as more schemes are completed. The council recognises that households needing large accessible homes, or who have specific housing needs, are currently facing a longer wait for a suitable home. We are working to provide housing that meets all needs, using existing council homes as well as new build developments.

A wheelchairadapted Royal Borough of Greenwich council home (image copyright Elkins Construction) Ability Needs Magazine

Be free.

ShopMobility UK co-ordinates a network of local ShopMobility centres which hire mobility scooters, powerchairs and wheelchairs for everyone, of all ages, to enjoy independence.

Find your nearest centre at:

www.shopmobilityuk.org Proud to be part of:

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Supported in England by:

02/12/2024 18:39

AN_p42_p43_industry_10_AN406_IL_Scotland.QXD 22/12/2025 16:33 Page 1

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Angus Long

AI – Friend or Foe?

Prime Minister, Sir Kier Starmer, believes his government’s plans setting out a blueprint to turbocharge Artificial intelligence (AI) will increase growth and boost living standards. He said expanding AI will deliver a decade of national renewal and benefits with an estimated £14 billion of investment and around 13,250 jobs, with the UK becoming one of the AI superpowers that could rival that of the US and China.

This all sounds encouraging and progressive but how will it affect us?

I was fortunate enough to see the introduction of computers into mainstream use in the mid 1980’s. Back then, they were not much more than word processors and portals for email, but nonetheless a real boon compared to a typewriter. Ever since, year on year, computing power and technology has seemingly advanced at an expediential rate. Indeed, take a

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quick look around the room now and you will see many examples of technological advancements in everyday existence that were mere pipe dreams a few years ago. Gizmos, gadgets and computers are now so much part of our daily lives, the younger generation find it difficult to imagine what it must have been like to grow up without them. My children often laugh at how we did things forty years ago and wonder too, just how we coped back then without the enormous array of electronic gadgetry now at our disposal.

My usual riposte is to say “that we coped and managed just fine.” Admittedly some things were slower and less instant, but we were also less stressed and more patient and sociable.

So, it begs the question, with so much of modern life reliant upon computers and electronic gadgetry are things really better or just different?

Today we are encouraged to do almost everything online, be it working, banking, shopping, communicating, research or leisure. The flipside or ‘butterfly effect’ is a society that is fast withdrawing into itself with people who no longer speak to each other and communities that no longer look out for each other. We are told the technological advancements of today exist to make life easier for everyone, yet we have never been more stressed and overworked than before, largely Ability Needs Magazine

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in part to the fact that much of the technology we are compelled into adopting is not that secure or stable and often prone to viruses and cyber-hacking. Indeed, be it the NHS, the MOD, banks or airports, there is almost daily news of one organisation or industry being crippled by computer glitches and technological failure. Not that long ago, Barclays Bank customers had errors with payments and transfers after a serious IT problem affected the bank's app and online banking system.

The Microsoft Windows computer operating system was first launched in 1985 with the windows 1.01 software operating system. Today, some 40 years later, we are now on the version 11 of the Windows operating software. I’ve noticed, in all those years, every version of the software has had multiple fixes and updates to deal with glitches and software problems. So it comes as no surprise that anything totally reliant on computing software is prone to glitches and breakdowns.

Earlier I reiterated the PMs message that his governments AI blueprint is set to create around 13,250 jobs. On the face of it, that sounds good.

However, AI and computing is replacing hundreds of thousands of other jobs. We are all familiar with the loss of jobs to self-service tills, online shops, banking apps and chat bots. But AI is now threatening other industries such as entertainment, with AI replacing authors, musicians, artists and actors. Indeed, a recent report from Goldman Sachs estimates around 300 million jobs could be affected by generative AI, meaning 18% of work globally could be automated. The report also predicts two-thirds of jobs in the USA and Europe “are exposed to some Ability Needs Magazine

degree of AI automation,” and around a quarter of all jobs could be performed by AI entirely.

Scary stuff.

Increases in mental health disorders, sleep deprivation and obesity are all being attributed to a society being compelled, even addicted, to technology. Life is for living, not existing, so if the principle benefit of the technology, robot or app doesn’t improve our life or wellbeing, why bother? Perhaps, when a new technological solution is being developed or promoted, we ought to pause and ask who the real beneficiary is. Will it be easier for the supplier or user? What happens if it fails and what are the alternatives and security implications? Balance what will be gained, against what could be lost. In other words, ‘just because we can, doesn’t mean we should.’

We will continue to evolve and advance and there are many great examples of technological advances, such as in healthcare and transportation. However, technological advancement is not always necessarily progress. In many cases, technology is simply doing things differently, but not necessarily better. Maybe sometimes the old way is still the best way.

So I’ll end with this. Key “Artificial Intelligence” into a thesaurus and it rereads as “Fake Ability”.

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AN_p44_Stannah + Resource_10_AN406_IL_Scotland.QXD 23/12/2025 19:31 Page 1

Jon and Sam Stannah

Stannah strengthens leadership with sixth generation and new executive board Family-owned lift business unveils governance changes to drive growth and reassure long-term commitment.

Stannah, the UK’s largest wholly family-owned lift business and a global leader in home accessibility, announced a major evolution in its governance and leadership structure. This milestone marks the beginning of a new era for the company, as the sixth generation of the Stannah family steps forward to help shape its future.

This year has seen many remarkable milestones reached within the Stannah business, including celebrating 50 years of stairlift manufacturing and distribution, surpassing one million stairlifts installed worldwide, and reaching £100 million in revenues for its Lifts Distribution and Service division. Alongside this, the company’s newest venture, Uplifts, has become its fastest-growing business unit, a testament to Stannah’s ability to innovate and adapt.

This transition marks the start of another generational shift for Stannah, as Sam Stannah, the eldest of the sixth generation, and CEO of Uplifts, joins the newly formed Executive Board (EB) alongside Alastair Stannah, Nick

Stannah, and Debi Coveney (Group CFO). The EB will support newly appointed CEOs by providing clear strategic leadership, a unifying vision across the entire Group and and ensuring accountability for performance and growth.

Sam Stannah said: “I’m proud to be part of this next chapter for Stannah. My grandad and the fourth generation laid the foundations for the incredible business we have today, and their vision inspires me every day. Our family has always believed in building for the long term, and this new governance model ensures we can continue to innovate while staying true to those values.”

These appointments reflect Stannah’s commitment to combining family stewardship with executive leadership, ensuring each division has the focus and autonomy needed to thrive.

With 18 members of the sixth generation, aged 12 to 32, Stannah remains committed to nurturing future leaders while preserving the family values that have guided the business for over 150 years.

New resource launched to support more inclusive road safety education for autistic people A new autism and neurodiversity resource is now available to help ensure road safety education is more accessible and inclusive for autistic people. Developed by CoPilot in partnership with the National Autistic Society, the resource supports road safety professionals to create learning experiences that recognise and respond to the needs of autistic learners.

While the focus is on improving inclusion, understanding autism also plays an important role in meeting legal responsibilities. Under UK equality law, organisations must consider and make reasonable adjustments to avoid disadvantaging disabled people.

With at least 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK, most practitioners will work with autistic children or adults during their careers, including individuals who may not yet have a diagnosis. Autistic people may experience differences in social communication, sensory processing, executive functioning and a greater need for certainty. These differences can shape how they engage with road safety sessions, education materials or learning environments.

The new resource features 24 short videos delivered by an expert from the National Autistic Society. Each video explores a different area of difference and provides

practical, real-world examples.

Supporting written guidance helps professionals design materials, plan sessions and anticipate situations where autistic people may benefit from additional support.

A recent example from a local authority’s Active Travel Team demonstrates the value of inclusive thinking. After receiving feedback from a parent of an autistic child, the team reviewed its school walking route guidance and explored clearer mapping, colour coding and quieter alternative routes. These improvements were recognised as boosting accessibility for autistic pupils while supporting more children to walk to school safely and confidently.

Ellie Goodman, Trainer Consultant at the National Autistic Society, said: "We’ve designed this resource to provide clear information and practical guidance to enable all road safety professionals to better understand autism and support autistic people. We hope our films and written guidance will support professionals to feel empowered to make often small but important changes to their practice."

For further information visit www.co-pilot.org

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For further information visit www.co-pilot.org

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AN_p45_Report_10_AN406_IL_Scotland.QXD 23/12/2025 19:15 Page 1

New report a call to action for predictive analytics to shape the future of preventive care Leading health technology providers Everon Group and Howz have recently launched a new whitepaper revealing that disrupted sleep is strongly correlated with increased fall risk, reduced resilience and wider deterioration in wellbeing.

The report demonstrates how wearable and telecare technology can detect meaningful changes in sleep patterns, including reduced sleep duration, increased night-time wakefulness and disrupted routines which are often early indicators of heightened fall risk or emerging health decline.

The report, “Independent Living, Intelligent Insight: The Role of Evercare in the Next Generation of TECS”, highlights how wearable technology and machine learning analytics can transform reactive telecare into a proactive, preventative model. The study demonstrates that continuous monitoring of routines, mobility and sleep patterns can provide early warning signs of health or wellbeing decline, allowing timely intervention before incidents occur.

Supporting the report, Everon and Howz have launched a new digital service, named Evercare, to the market.

Evercare provides round-the-clock behavioural analytics with data drawn from wearable technology including the accelerometer and pendant, which allows care teams to identify anomalies in behaviour, assess risks and act accordingly.

Sleep is a powerful indicator of health and its disruption is closely linked with falls, cognitive decline and reduced resilience. Poor sleep significantly increases the risk of falls, which currently cost the NHS an estimated £2.3 billion each year1. With an aging population, this financial and human burden is set to rise, yet many falls are preventable through timely, targeted interventions that address underlying causes.

The new report sets out a series of recommendations for government, local authorities, housing providers and health services, including: • Embedding digital innovation at the centre of housing, health, and social care reforms to implement a prevention-first approach • Clarifying responsibility and accountability for data and care outcomes across NHS, local authorities and housing providers.

• Investing in interoperable systems that allow existing TECS devices to generate actionable insights without replacement.

• Using real-time analytics to detect changes in routines, Ability Needs Magazine

mobility and sleep, supporting early intervention and improved wellbeing.

The report also highlights the critical role of housing providers in bridging home, health, and social care. By using data-led insights, staff can identify residents at risk, coordinate with health partners and provide personalised support while maintaining independence.

Peter Kerly, Managing Director at Everon UK, added: “As the UK moves towards a fully digital communications network, the potential to deliver truly proactive and preventative care is unprecedented.

“Our work with Howz has shown that it is now possible to identify meaningful changes in behaviour from data already generated by existing devices and that these changes correlate with key risks such as poor sleep, reduced mobility and falls. This creates a powerful opportunity for services to intervene earlier and support people to remain independent for longer.”

The report demonstrates how wearable and telecare technology can detect meaningful changes in sleep, mobility and daily routines, providing early warning signs that enable providers across housing, health and social care to intervene proactively. By shifting from reactive responses to predictive insight, services can identify risks earlier, prevent avoidable incidents and support older adults to remain independent for longer.

Kate Fairhurst, Managing Director at Howz, said: "The findings from the report highlight the transformative potential of data-led care. By identifying meaningful shifts in behaviour early, services can respond before an incident occurs rather than after. In practice, this enables teams to adjust support, contact a family member, or intervene clinically at the right moment.

“The Evercare proof of concept shows that these indicators can now be derived from data already generated by existing wearable and pendant devices, with significant implications for both cost-effectiveness and scalability."

By tracking key indicators such as sleep, mobility and nutrition, Everon and Howz together enable early intervention, support wellbeing and help older adults maintain independence at home for longer.

To download a copy of the new report, please visit www.everon.net/blog/independent-livingintelligent-insight-the-role-of-evercare-in-the-nextgeneration-of-tecs/ To hear more about Evercare, please visit www.everon.global/solutions/howz/ 45

AN_p46_p47_p48 Cheryl Everitt_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 22/12/2025 16:28 Page 1

A taste of Georgia: History, hospitality, and culture in the Caucasus Booking a trip to Georgia in November, I certainly wasn’t expecting to be eating lunch in the sunshine overlooking the mountains. With neighbours including Russia and Turkey, this Eurasian country has never screamed winter sun destination at me and in fact I had gone armed with woolly jumpers in anticipation of the cold temperatures I was expecting.

But the weather was glorious and this, coupled with the fascinating culture and incredible food, all added up to make a fabulous trip.

Arriving into Tbilisi, the capital city, late at night, a short taxi ride took me to my hotel right in the centre of the city. Tucked away near Freedom Square, on the drive in I was able to enjoy many of the beautiful buildings. Examples were the Opera House, one of the oldest buildings in Eastern Europe, with its distinctive yellow and brown striped façade and Moorish design.

Freedom Square itself contrasted with stately buildings and a much more modern, European style.

Next day, my first stop was Bodbe Monastery.

Perched on top of a hill surveying the surrounding

landscape, it is around 100km from Tbilisi. The monastery is dedicated to St Nino, the woman credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century.

There are two churches, a smaller one dedicated to the saint and a larger more modern one. But it is the setting that is truly special, 750m metres above sea level, standing in the glorious gardens looking out over the hills.

Next, a short trip to Signaghi, a small, pretty town known as the ‘City of Love’. In Turkish, the word means shelter and so, somewhat ironically, the town also hosts a huge, sobering WWII memorial to Georgian solders who lost their lives during the conflict. Stretching along an entire street with separate sections for each village, it seems at odds with what the area is best known for today: being at the very heart of the country’s winegrowing Kakheti region. But in a strange way it seems quite apt – throughout its history of invasions, occupations and wars, every Georgian has been touched by conflict in some form. But still the people remain resilient and deeply proud of their culture and

Tbilisi Opera House

Bodbe Monastery

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AN_p46_p47_p48 Cheryl Everitt_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 22/12/2025 16:28 Page 2

The WWII Memorial at Signaghi

traditions – among them, the ancient practice of winemaking.

Another short trip brought me to the Lost Ridge Brewery and Ranch where I had my first taste of Georgian food. And oh, was it worth the wait. And all offered with the local wine. The food was undoubtedly one of the absolute highlights of my trip – whether it was eating lobiani, the bean filled bread, meat so meltingly tender it fell off the bone, or my own favourite, Tkemali, a sour plum sauce used as a condiment, but so good I could have sat and eaten it by the spoonful.

Everything was fresh, locally grown, simple ingredients prepared beautifully and with care.

Hospitality is as intrinsically Georgian as breathing.

On the hill overlooking the capital is one of Tbilisi’s most famous landmarks, Kartlis Deda or Mother of God. With a sword in one hand and a goblet of wine in the other,

Anyone for chacha?

she embodies the Georgian belief that every guest is a gift from God. Yet while hospitality is generous and warm, there is still a practicality about it which I found quite intriguing.

When you have finished your delicious meal, washed down with copious amounts of wine, you are unlikely to be offered a dessert. It was summed up as this: ‘Georgians are a hard-working, practical people.

Dessert is for those who have time to eat it and we rarely do.’ In fact, when in the city, it wouldn’t be a huge continued on p48

A nice spot for lunch Ability Needs Magazine

The view from the Peace Bridge 47

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AN_p46_p47_p48 Cheryl Everitt_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 22/12/2025 16:28 Page 3

Exploring the waterfall in Tbilisi

shift to expect your friendly host, when they say goodbye, to go and join one of the demonstrations that happens regularly in the city. For much change is still needed for the ordinary citizen and while this is unlikely to have any impact on your own trip, it is a gentle nudge to remind you that everything is not always exactly as it seems.

But, in the country, time can always be found to sample the local chacha. In fact, at the earlier mentioned meal in the mountains, after feasting on a delicious meal of sour plum sauce served over beetroot, warm cherry and blackberry juice, pork barbecued in front of us, warm bread with cabbage and walnut, plus so much more, our host introduced his collection. Of which he could not have been prouder! Chacha is known as vine vodka in reference to its strength and the fact that it is made by made Georgian households as a type of 50% home brew. You will be lucky to escape a meal without trying some…

Georgia is widely accepted to be the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking history dating back 8000 years. The first traces were found near Tibilisi and the capital was in fact a fascinating city to wander around.

Modern elements from the already mentioned modern buildings around Freedom Square, along with the distinctive Peace Bridge. Designed by an Italian architect, the bridge spans the river and has actually featured on the cover of some versions of the Harry Potter books. It offers a great vantage point from which to see the city. It was relatively straightforward to

navigate, with most places within easy reach of each other.

Throughout the city there are references to all periods of its history, meaning while some parts feel polished and modern, others seem more of a nod to widely different eras. This does create a few challenges with access for example, the underground Meidan bazaar, but generally it is fairly achievable. And worth it!

The newly opened waterfall route, fully accessible over a series of step free bridges, was a peaceful spot to wander in the city. From there, I came round to the gorgeous old spa buildings, with their domed roofs and Moorish influenced tile work.

I also saw the smallest working clock in the city – smaller than the palm of my hand but still accurately telling the time for all passers-by.

Outside of the capital, Mtskheta was another interesting stop – the old capital of Georgia, this felt more like a step back in time. Wandering along wide cobbled streets with the mountains as backdrop and furry papakha, the traditional furry hats for sale, this felt a world away from the more urban feel of Tbilisi. The church had ramped access to get inside, where I could see beautiful frescoes that had survived the whitewashing many received under Stalin.

And of course, Stalin himself was a Georgian, so a stop off in his hometown of Gori was a must. There is a huge imposing museum, but just in front is the small house in which he grew up, an interesting reminder of how far he climbed. And next door is the railway carriage in which he travelled round his empire, due to his fear of flying.

Georgia was an amazing place to visit. I only scratched the surface but it certainly left me wanting more. It was not perfect in terms of access – the historical nature of some sites means they can pose challenges for some but awareness is increasing and things are improving. However, even as it is, there is plenty visitors can access and certainly more than enough to warrant a visit to this fascinating country. I’ve already been looking into Georgian cookbooks so I can try and recreate some of the dishes at home…

Stalin’s railway carriage

Cheryl Everitt is the founder of A Wheel and Away, an accessible travel consultancy designed to help people with disabilities plan exciting and independent adventures. She is also mum to two young people who are wheelchair users and, as a family, they share a love of exploring new destinations.

For more information about A Wheel and Away go to www.awheelandaway.com

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AN_p49_Swimming_10_AN406_IL_Scotland.QXD 28/12/2025 10:13 Page 1

69% rise in swimmers with a disability marks major leap for inclusion More children thriving in mainstream classes as Learn to Swim champions inclusion Scotland is seeing a major rise in the number of Paralympian Toni Shaw is an ambassador for the children with disabilities learning to swim, with new National Learn to Swim Framework and spearheads the figures showing a 69% increase in just one year.

See My Ability campaign. She started swimming aged A report published by Scottish Swimming and just one through the Learn to Swim Framework in Scottish Water reveals that of the almost 82,000 children Aberdeen. Born without a right hand, she has gone on to who took part in the Learn to Swim Framework up to medal on the world stage and has represented GB at the March this year, 2,745 were registered as disabled, a 2020 Tokyo Paralympics where she won a bronze medal significant jump from 2024. in the women's 400m freestyle S9 event.

Importantly, the data shows “I think it's so important for anyone that 81% of swimmers with a with a disability to be in a mainstream disability are now learning in club, I was really lucky that my parents mainstream or non-disabilityput me into a mainstream class” says specific classes, highlighting a Toni. “It's where my love for swimming shift towards more inclusive and started. I think it is just such an supportive lesson environments important message, that if you have a across Scotland. disability, you can thrive in a Learn to Swim is a National mainstream environment. Not Framework delivered by 38 everyone's going to want to be a leisure trusts and aquatic competitive swimmer but having the providers in more than 160 pools skill to be in the water and be safe is across Scotland, with the shared so important.” vision to create ‘Generation The ‘See My Ability’ campaign has Swim’, a generation of confident, championed inclusivity since its safer and competent swimmers inception in 2019 and encourages who benefit from the wider health lesson providers to create the best and social rewards that environment available, and if swimming can offer. appropriate adapt lessons, to ensure The figures have been children develop and progress. published to coincide with the Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Paralympian Toni Shaw takes part in a Learn annual #SeeMyAbility campaign, Officer at Scottish Water, said: to Swim class run by the team behind The Learn “Ensuring people of all ages and to Swim National Framework abilities have access to learn to swim Scottish Swimming and Scottish Water. The campaign to help them feel confident and safer in the water is vital aims to break down participation barriers for individuals – especially in a country like Scotland where there are with disabilities and spread the message that swimming miles of lochs, rivers, reservoirs and coastlines. is for everyone.

“We’re proud to support a programme that is “It’s great to see the Learn to Swim Framework accessible to all – and this is not only important from a reaching more children with disabilities and learning safety perspective, as individuals will also get to alongside their peers,” said Paul Wilson, Disability experience the wider social, health and fitness benefits Performance Development Manager at Scottish that swimming can offer.

Swimming.

Paul Wilson added, “This is a great example of “We recognise that the learning environment has to partnership working. Inclusion is high on the agenda suit individual needs but the fact that more children are among Learn to Swim providers and the Scottish learning in mainstream classes shows how far we’ve Swimming-Scottish Water Framework supports this with come in terms of teachers’ understanding and ability to resources, training and videos to help teachers better support children with disabilities.” understand different disabilities.”

The Learn to Swim Framework is open to everyone To find out more about the Learn to Swim regardless of age, ability or skill levels, with the programme visit partnership committed to creating an inclusive and www.scottishswimming.com/learn-to-swim supportive environment for all.

Ability Needs Magazine

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AN_p50-p51 MS Society + addmobility??_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 26/12/2025 16:00 Page 1

What will the Employment Rights Bill mean for people with MS? The government has now passed the Employment Rights Bill, and it’s been granted Royal Assent. It will now become law, with some significant changes for people with MS coming into force from April 2026.

In response Ross Barrett, our Policy Manager, said: “This new employment rights legislation is an important step towards creating a fairer and more inclusive workplace for disabled people. Long overdue reforms to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) are set to put an end to some historic injustices for people with MS.” We know people with MS can face significant obstacles to staying and flourishing in their jobs.

These issues can force people to leave work before they want or need to, or pressure them to compromise their health to stay in work.

But when people with MS can get the adjustments they need at work and the financial support they need while they’re off work, they can often better manage their symptoms, protect their health, and stay in work as a result.

There are two key areas the new legislation covers that will impact people living with MS. Improvements to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Many people with MS need time off work to manage their health. A lot of employers offer enhanced sick pay, known as Occupational Sick Pay (OSP), but many are still wholly reliant on SSP. The previous rules around SSP meant that: • people may not have been able to access sick pay from day one of their job • the first three days of an absence weren’t covered by SSP. • people on low salaries (earning less than an average of £123 a week) weren’t eligible for SSP, due to the Lower Earnings Limit Provided the government deliver the Bill in full, these issues should soon be addressed. The Bill will: • ensure SSP is available from day one on the job • remove the waiting period for payment (so people can use SSP from the first day of their absence) • expand access to SSP to people on lower salaries by removing the Lower Earnings Limit 50

Stronger rights to flexible working We know a lot of people living with MS are concerned about their rights to flexible working when looking for a new job.

The current rules mean someone has to be in their job for at least six months before they can apply for a flexible working arrangement. And even then, there's a lot of room for employers to deny a request.

One further major reform proposed is the move to make flexible working the default contract status for all workers. This will strengthen the rights for employees to make flexible working arrangements, right from the start of their employment.

What’s still missing from employment rights law in the UK? There are still three key things we think the government should do to make sure the employment rights legislation better supports the health and employment prospects of people with MS. 1. Make SSP easier to use, and more useful, for people with fluctuating conditions At the moment, SSP can only be paid for up to 28 weeks in a three-year period. Either in one period of sickness, or in several ‘linked’ periods less than eight weeks apart.

We think the government should extend the amount of time someone can claim SSP, and reform how different periods of sickness absence are linked together.

2. Make SSP more flexible At the moment, people either have to work a full day or take the whole day off sick. This makes it hard to gradually phase a return to work after a period of sickness, or temporarily reduce hours into a period of absence when becoming unwell.

We 'd like to see SSP be paid as an hourly rate, rather than a flat day rate. So people can phase their return, or exit, from work to manage their condition.

3. Increase the rate of SSP Right now, SSP is just £116.75 a week. This means that most people experience a large drop in income when they go onto it. This means some Ability Needs Magazine

AN_p50-p51 MS Society + addmobility??_18-19_AN306_Tani's_view.QXD 26/12/2025 16:00 Page 2

people are forced to use annual leave to manage periods of sickness, or go back to work early. And in our recent research with the Work Foundation over a quarter of people with MS who had left work (26%) said that better sick pay would have helped them stay in work.

We think the government should change the rate of SSP, so it’s paid in line with the National Living Wage (NLW). This will give people better financial security, and it means they don’t have to choose between their health and a decent income.

What happens next?

We’ll continue to push for policy change through

conversations with the Ministers overseeing the legislation. We'll also continue to scrutinise the development of the Bill by providing parliamentarians with draft written questions and briefings for debate contributions as the new legislation starts to be rolled out across the country.

Although we'd like to see the legislation go further, a key priority is making sure the reforms proposed aren’t watered down as the plans for the implementation and enforcement of the new laws are drawn up.

But we’ll also keep fighting for Safe Sick Pay, and for the government to do right and match SSP to the National Living Wage.

How do I get involved?

If you’ve experienced challenges in the workplace with things like reasonable adjustments, or have experience of using Statutory Sick Pay to manage your condition we want to hear from you.

Get in touch by emailing campaigns@mssociety.org.uk and we can add your insights to our questions and briefings, and get your voice heard with MPs and Ministers involved in the Bill.

When we speak up together, we're stronger.

Stay in touch about this advocacy work and all our other campaigns.

For more information visit www.mssociety.org.uk

New products from AddMobility

Ability Needs Magazine

The Genny Zero

AddMobility.com has added two new products, the UK’s Evo Mobility and Switzerland’s Genny Zero, to its range of gyro products that is led by the French designed and built Le Gus. Adding an additional lower priced product to the range will allow more people to access gyro technology and the advanced Genny Zero offers an exciting complement.

AddMobility’s team have been involved with gyro-based wheelchairs since 2010 and are excited to add these units to the range that we sell in the UK. As we say, we really do love cool products, and these two products continue that theme.

As the distributor of Le Gus and Evo in the UK, Spain, and Scandinavia we are also interested in speaking to potential dealers.

For more information contact Sales@addmobility.com 51

AN_p52_Driveability_33_AN306_QueenEliz.qxd 29/12/2025 09:27 Page 1

The team at DriveAbility Scotland welcomed delegates, stakeholders and clients to the opening of its new centre in Glasgow

DriveAbility Scotland successfully opens new Glasgow headquarters to help more drivers with disabilities Attended by key decision makers and stakeholders in accessible and safe driving, the opening of the new DriveAbility Scotland headquarters in Glasgow has been a success – ensuring more Scottish people with disabilities can benefit from greater independence.

Founded in 2021, DriveAbility Scotland is the only Driving Mobility accredited centre in Scotland and is the only service to actively reach clients in the Highlands and Islands. Now an independent charity, DriveAbility Scotland has moved to enhanced premises to meet growing demand for its services. It can now manage its Inverness and Aberdeen outreaches more efficiently and hopes to develop further outreach to rural communities across Scotland. The new premises have been grant-funded by the Motability Foundation.

DriveAbility Scotland provides clinically led, 'fitness-to-drive' and mobility equipment assessments, passenger access assessments and driving school services so people can access the right adapted vehicles for their needs. Andrew Swain, CEO, welcomed professional delegates to the new home of DriveAbility Scotland. He commented: "Today could not have gone better. We've welcomed many partners, stakeholders and service users to come and celebrate with us. They've seen our facilities for the first time and have been very impressed, particularly with our new state-of-theart vehicle simulator for specialist driving tuition. This new centre is vital for the people of Scotland as it provides more equal access to our assessment services. We are always striving to reduce travel times to our centres, for all vulnerable individuals in society, so they can begin their journey towards independent mobility more easily."

Gavin Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Motability Operations, the company that runs the Motability Scheme, attended the opening. He added: “The opening of DriveAbility Scotland’s new headquarters is a great step forward for accessible mobility in Scotland. It’s been fantastic to see the difference DriveAbility Scotland is making for disabled people across the country. Hearing directly from drivers who’ve regained their independence really brings home why this work matters. These new facilities will make that possible for even more people, and it’s a privilege for us to play a part in that journey.”

Alongside professional stakeholders which included senior representatives from Police Scotland, DVLA and Transport Scotland, DriveAbility Scotland clients also attended the opening. William Hendry, 71, said: "I have 52

been able to continue driving thanks to the incredible team at DriveAbility Scotland – that's in my car with adapted controls and on a mobility scooter. When I had my first appointment I hadn't driven for over a year so my confidence was low - they could not have done any more to relive the pressure I was feeling. They have been so caring and helpful throughout the whole process, I have been thoroughly impressed with their service levels and assessment accuracy. They have reopened up my life."

Another client attending was Iain Powrie who added: "Being back on the road is just so incredibly satisfying and freeing. I now have my Motability vehicle sitting outside today that has been adapted with the controls DriveAbility Scotland recommended. I can go anywhere under my own steam and do not have the worry or cost of getting taxis. It's allowed me to get back to seeing my family, friends and work colleagues. Previously I couldn't see my brother for months whereas now I can drive up to Oban more regularly. It's just all about freedom."

In conclusion, Chelsea Fleming, Programme Director at the Motability Foundation said: “At the Motability Foundation we want to build transport equity, so we are proud to have funded this fantastic new facility that will help disabled people to travel independently and make the journeys they choose. Driveability Scotland provides an invaluable service in assessing disabled people's driving and mobility needs, so it’s great that these new premises will help increase access to their services.”

DriveAbility Scotland continues to seek funding from the Scottish Government to maintain its services in the future.

For more information email info@driveabilityscotland.org.uk or go to www.driveabilityscotland.org.uk.

If visiting, DriveAbility Scotland can be found at 117 Brook Street, Glasgow, G30 3AP

Ability Needs Magazine

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Sight Village

is the UK’s leading exhibition and an integral part of the

blind and low-vision landscape, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The exhibition provides a unique and welcoming space where people with visual impairments or low vision can explore the latest technology, products, and support services, engaging with new innovations in a sensory-rich environment designed to meet the needs of the low-vision community.

Sight Village delivers a national programme of events designed to ensure access to essential information and support across the UK. In 2026, Sight Village will host six events, beginning in Glasgow in March, followed

by Exeter in April at a new venue, Leeds in June, Birmingham in July, North Wales in September — a new local event supported by North Wales Blind Society — and returning to London in October/November (dates to be confirmed). Visitors are encouraged to check the Sight Village website regularly for the latest updates, including confirmed dates, timings, venues, and travel information.

At Sight Village, attendees can engage with a wide array of exhibitors, including charities, commercial companies, and voluntary organisations from the UK, Europe, and beyond. This diversity allows visitors to learn about the latest advancements in assistive technology, gain insights into vital support services, and connect with experts dedicated to improving the lives of people with visual impairments or low vision.

Sight Village’s latest exhibition was held in London in November 2025 and attracted the interest of the Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP, Minister for Social Security and Disability, who was welcomed to the event by Bev Jessop, Principal and Chief Executive of Queen Alexandra College (QAC). Reflecting on his visit, Minister Timms said: “My visit to Sight Village has shown me again that it is Assistive and Accessible Technology that is key to enabling independence, greater inclusion and participation for disabled people. We are committed to increasing awareness of existing assistive technologies and exploring ways to build capacity and digital skills, to create opportunities for disabled people in all areas of life.”

Come along and see how Sight Village can help you today!

"Sight "Sight Village Village is is the the UK’s UK’s leading leading exhibition exhibition ffor or tthe he b blind lind a and nd low-vision low-vision community, community, featuring featuring the the latest latest technology, technology, products, products, and and services. services.

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q qacsightvillage.org.uk acsight village.org.uk Tel: Te l: 0121 012 1 8 0 3 5 3 313 13 54

Ability Needs Magazine

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Tea Break QUICK CROSSWORD 1

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CROSSWORD CLUES 5

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ACROSS DOWN 1. Celebrity (4) 1. Prone (4,4) 3. First and foremost (5,3) 2. Ethical (5) 9. American reindeer (7) 4. Spicy fish stew from 10. Person always on the move (5) Provence (13) 11. Greek D (5) 5. Poison (5) 12. Bewail (6) 6. Gas compounded of nitrogen 14. Tottenham Hotspur’s former and hydrogen - NH3 (7) home ground (5,4,4) 7. Deposit of valuable ore found 17. Island in the Bay of Naples (6) in surrounding rocks (4) 19. Fast car (5) 8. Burning fiercely (6) 22. Wrath (5) 13. Unafraid (8) 23. Sleep (4-3) 15. Perceptiveness (7) 24. Chewed the fat (8) 16. Arrive (uninvited?) (4,2) 25. Musical work (4) 18. Steed (5) 20. Inexpensive (5) 21. Minor chessman (4)

QUIZ

REMEMBER WHEN...

All these events occurred in the same year but in which year was it?

• The film ET was in the cinema • The Jam had a UK No1 hit with “Town Called Malice” • Michael Fagan broke into Buckingham Place • The Russian spacecraft Venera 14 lands on Venus

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“

…It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it …

”

Aristotle

WORDPLAY: NICHE The word may seem familiar but do you know what it means?

A – Recess in a wall B – Making a point C – Foolishly simple

1. When was the last time Halley's Comet was visible to the naked eye?

2. The name for which country stems from the Portuguese words for "Bearded ones"?

3. What part of the body might be seen when using Kirlian photography?

4. When was the tie break introduced at Wimbledon?

5. Which famous painter created a series of prints entitled ‘The Disasters of War’ depicting the atrocities committed by Napoleon's soldiers on the Iberian Peninsula?

6. Which Paul McCartney and Wings song title contains one of the X-men characters?

7. Who reached the singles final at Wimbledon a record 12 times in the modern era?

8. What is the well-known French cooking term for a bundle of herbs tied together and used to flavour soups, stews, stocks etc?

9. Name the only two X-rated films in the USA (at the time of release) to have been nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. One point for each correct answer.

10. Dubbed 'the ice finger of death', what is an undersea icicle called?

Tea Break is sponsored by

WHO AM I? • An actress, I was born in Pasadena in 1946.

• I dated Burt Reynolds for many years but we never married. I shot to fame in the 1960’s TV series Gidget and the Flying Nun. • I also had parts in some films including Mrs Doubtfire and Forrest Gump.

Who am I? Ability Needs Magazine

Getting you noticed

Tel: 07968 421428 Answers can be found on page 56 55

AN_p56_Subs_p51-52_AN306_GoodService.qxd 22/12/2025 15:09 Page 1

TEA BREAK ANSWERS Quick Crossword ACROSS 1. Fame; 3. Above all; 9. Caribou; 10. Nomad; 11. Delta; 12. Lament; 14. White Hart Lane; 17. Ischia; 19. Racer; 22. Anger; 23. Shut-eye; 24. Nattered; 25. Opus DOWN 1. Face down; 2. Moral; 4. Bouillabaisse; 5.Venom; 6. Ammonia; 7. Lode; 8. Ablaze; 13.

Fearless; 15. Insight; 16. Turn up; 18. Horse; 20. Cheap; 21. Pawn

Quiz 1. 1986; 2. Barbados; 3. Aura; 4. 1971; 5. Francisco Goya; 6. Magneto and Titanium Man. (Magneto was one of the original X-men); 7. Martina Navratilova; 8. Bouquet garni; 9. Midnight Cowboy and A Clockwork Orange; 10. Brinicle (or ice stalactite)

Remember When . . .

Word play

1982

A – Recess in a wall

Who Am I?

Sally Field

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