We’re making it easier to search for scooters and powered wheelchairs on the Motability Scheme

On the Motability Scheme website, you can see all the mobility products that are currently available. You can find them by clicking on the ‘Find a vehicle’ tab in our website’s navigation menu, and then scrolling down and selecting the type of vehicles or products you’re interested in seeing, such as scooters or powered wheelchairs.

We recently improved this part of the site so that it’s even easier for you to browse through products and find one that’s right for you. Our updated search tools are one of many new improvements across our website.

The biggest difference is that there are now two separate tools to search for mobility products on our site – one for scooters and another for powered wheelchairs. Previously, these searches were combined into one, but we’ve split them out so that you can find what you’re looking for more easily. Plus, there are new features to help you to choose the right product for you.

You’ll notice that we’ve simplified the names of the product types we offer, so that it’s easier for you to know what your options are. You can now browse by Transportable, Foldable, Pavement or Road-legal options when choosing a scooter.

When you search for a scooter, you’ll see that the results are grouped by make and model, so it’s easier to see what’s available. We’ve also introduced some new filters to help you narrow down your search.

If you’re looking for a powered wheelchair, you can now browse by Standard or Configurable. Just like with the new scooter search, you’ll see that the results are grouped by make and model, so that they’re easier to scroll through. You can also use a range of filters (including some brand-new ones) to narrow down your search.

Another thing you should know is that with both new searches, you can add a product to your ‘favourites’ and come back to it at a later point. This helps you compare your options more easily, before deciding which product is right for you. Your favourites will only be saved on the device you’re browsing on, rather than across all of your devices.

For more information visit www.motability.co.uk/whats-available/scooters-wheelchairs

The‘What Matters’ survey released by the Spinal Injuries Association, which looked at almost 1000 responses from spinal cord injured people, found that the majority of respondents have stretched themselves to the limit this winter by diving into savings or running up huge debt. With benefits falling short, some have been forced to turn to food banks and warm spaces with one so desperate that they admitted to resorting to stealing food from shops.

Despite the news that energy costs are coming down in the short term, the future is uncertain with overall energy costs still much higher. Many have real concerns that they have no real way of increasing their income to absorb any additional costs that next winter will inevitably bring.

Spinal cord injury brings mobility issues and in many cases paralysis below the point of injury but there are many hidden effects such as an inability to regulate body temperature. For a spinal cord injured person simply switching off the heating is not a safe option, and some have to use additional equipment such as hoists or stairlifts which take on even more electricity.

Many reported that the cold adversely affects their pain levels and their ability to walk with some struggling to actually move around their own home. Some resorted to wearing ski clothes indoors or wrapping themselves in blankets and duvets and staying in bed all day, rather than turning on the heating.

Nik Hartley OBE, CEO of Spinal Injuries Association said: “We’re shocked and saddened by what we’ve learnt. It remains clear from our responses that spinal cord injured people are being failed. Failed by a health and social care system in crisis and failed by a lack of coordination and financial support when they really need it. We will continue to support our members to ensure that they are receiving all of the discounts to which they are entitled and know where to find any additional help."

For information and support telephone the Support Line: 0800 980 0501

THE WORLD'S LIGHTEST GENUINE FOUR WHEEL MOBILITY SCOOTER

• Premium build quality

• Lightweight

• 8” PU wheels, solid front and back

• Maximum weight capacity 125kg

• 120W brushless motor

• Maximum speed 7km/h

• Frame made from magnesium

Weighs only 14.7kg!