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Access All Areas

YORKSHIRE MOBILTY DAY SPECIAL DELIVERY SPRING ISSUE 2017

DOUG PAULLEY'S LANDMARK CASE

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LONDON CALLING WITH HELEN DOLPHIN

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0800 587 9616 www.alliedmobility.com

USED WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

Trust the UK’s leading accessible vehicle specialist for added peace of mind.

FIAT DOBLO

UK WIDE

ONLY

£4,995

3 Years Warranty

FREE HOME

DEMONSTRATIONS

Seats: 2 + Plate: 58 (2007)

IN STOCK

Colour: Blue

3 Years Warranty

RENAULT KANGOO

ONLY

SKODA ROOMSTER

ONLY

£5,495

£5,995

50 USED VEHICLES

Miles: 36,500

CITROËN BERLINGO

MORE THAN

3 Years Warranty

ONLY

£7,995

Seats: 2 +

Colour: Gold

Seats: 2 +

Colour: Blue

Seats: 2 +

Colour: Grey

Plate: 59 (2009)

Miles: 77,000

Plate: 09 (2009)

Miles: 28,000

Plate: 60 (2011)

Miles: 72,000

CITROËN BERLINGO 3 Years Warranty

PEUGEOT HORIZON ONLY

PEUGEOT INDEPENDENCE ONLY

ONLY

£9,995

£17,995

£11,995

Seats: 2 +

Colour: Red

Seats: 2 +

Colour: Silver

Seats: 6 +

Colour: Grey

Plate: 11 (2011)

Miles: 24,500

Plate: 13 (2013)

Miles: 33,500

Plate: 65 (2015)

Miles: 2,500

✓ 82 point vehicle preparation standard ✓ 12 months RAC warranty

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✓ 12 months RAC breakdown cover ✓ 12 months MOT (if applicable)

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WELCOME

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Since our last Access All Areas we’ve been busy planning our events schedule for 2017 and we're already looking forward to the Yorkshire Mobility Day, at the fantastic Yorkshire Air Museum.

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We catch up with Allied customers Jennifer and Rachel Cole who received a special delivery in the shape of a brand new Peugeot Horizon while Aaron Morgan explains his plans for another exciting season of motorsport.

We also take a look at the landmark Supreme Court judgement involving wheelchair user Doug Paulley who brought his case against FirstGroup after being refused entry to one of their buses back in 2012.

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Happy reading!

News Round-up........................................ 4 A Unique Vehicle...................................... 6

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Charity Focus............................................ 9 Top 10 Apps ........................................... 10 Geared for Success................................. 12 A Welcome Surprise............................... 16 London Calling........................................ 17 Yorkshire Mobility Day............................ 20 Understanding PAS 2012....................... 22 New Found Freedom............................. 24

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A Landmark Case.................................... 27 Sports Update ........................................ 30

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news Round Up\\\

NEW POWERS YES WE CAN!

London and Manchester will receive around £100 million to develop, procure and deliver localised versions of the new Work and Health Programme to fit the needs of their residents.

In the last three years, the number of disabled people in work has increased by almost 600,000. However, the gap between the employment rates of disabled people and non-disabled people remains too large at 32%.

NATIONAL AWARD A new arts-based project using photography and video aims to show the people behind disability. It is showcasing the huge amount which can be achieved by adults with learning difficulties and children with complex needs.

Kate Siseman, 36, from Buckley, who has Down's Syndrome, has enjoyed doing an office and media course.

She said: "I love the fact you can listen to music while you type because it helps me clear my mind out.

The "We Can" project has held exhibitions at the Senedd, Houses of Parliament and in 24 countries. Mold-based Same but Different is behind it and everyone involved has a learning disability.

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“ONE of a kind” is how an award-winning Walsall teacher, who “goes above and beyond” in looking after disabled children, was described after scooping a top prize.

Becki Plant, assistant special educational needs co-ordinator at Brownhills School, won charity Contact a Family's Parent Champion award.

Judges said she received it for going the extra mile to champion the cause of families with disabled children.

Winners were announced at a special ceremony in Speakers House at the Palace of Westminster, in London.

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Cut to Disability Benefits Government plans to cut disabled unemployment benefit for new claimants could make it harder for them to find work and push many into poverty, an all-party group of MPs has said.

Ministers justified plans to cut £29 a week from employment and support allowance (ESA) payments on the grounds that the reduction would remove “perverse incentives” that discourage people from returning to work. The committee said for many new ESA claimant the impact would be compounded because they face higher living costs than Jobseekers Allowance claimants, and typically had to get by on benefits for longer. Although ministers promised to provide extra support with living costs, MPs said it was not clear how this would be provided.

Recognition for Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Police is among the latest organisations to become a Disability Confident committed employer.

The award is part of the Department for Work and Pensions' Disability Confident scheme, which helps employers make the most of opportunities provided by employing disabled people.

Staffordshire Police joins hundreds of organisations across the UK including Allied Mobility.

At the Double A groundbreaking Exeter business run by people with disabilities is doing so well, it's hoping to double in size over the next couple of years.

Devon Disability Collective, which operates in Marsh Barton, Exeter, employs people to make a range of products - from sheepskin cushions to motorcycle seats.

DDC's chief executive Mike Crompton-Holgate said: "We were very grateful for Devon County Council's rescue package which prevented mass redundancies of people with disabilities.

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A Unique Vehicle f o The Coles, from Northampton, are enjoying getting out and about in their new Peugeot Horizon

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Every car sold from Allied Mobility is a special vehicle which can make the world of difference to individuals or families. However, some have more significance than others and when the Cole family took delivery of their new Peugeot Horizon™, they became our 3,000th customer of the year.

The Coles, from Northampton, require a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) as daughter Rachel suffers from Spina Bifida, deafness and limited use of her upper body.

“We required a WAV and needed it to be easy to get her in and out of because I am partially disabled, too,” explained mum, Jennifer.

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Comfort and Joy Jennifer commented: “The whole family loved going out on trips around the country and we used to need a larger vehicle to accommodate everyone. This doesn't happen so much these days so, the need for a large WAV subsided and that’s why we opted for the Peugeot Horizon.”

Available in two different options and able to seat up to five people, including one wheelchair passenger, Horizon™ was the ideal choice.

Jennifer added: “The way that the Horizon is set up, it’s so easy to get Rachel in and out of the car, which is crucial for me and the rest of the family. Everything is so

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“

“

It’s so easy to get Rachel in and out of the car, which is crucial for me and the rest of the family.

f or the Cole Family accessible and it’s a pleasure to drive due to our preference of an automatic. While we’ve been used to larger cars in the past, the Peugeot Horizon now suits us best!”

Smooth Process Having owned two WAVs previously, Jennifer was very impressed with how easy the whole procedure was from start to finish.

She explained: “All in all, it took just under three weeks to complete the process, which is the quickest we’ve received any of our three WAVs in the past.”

To celebrate this special occasion local Allied Mobility advisor Darren visited the Coles, along with a photographer, to

capture some pictures of the family with their new vehicle.

Horizon™, like all of Allied Mobility's wheelchair accessible vehicles, is available to buy new, buy used, to hire or via the Motability Scheme.

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0800 587 9616 info@alliedmobility.com www.alliedmobility.com/horizon

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0800 587 9616

www.alliedmobility.com

Discover the unique benefits of Allied Aftercare™ alliedmobility.com/aftercare

CHANGE ON THE

HORIZON The UK’s most popular wheelchair accessible vehicle is now better than ever.

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3 - 5 seats

Lowest Peugeot WAV

ADVANCE PAYMENT

Vehicles in stock now

PEUGEOT PARTNER

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£1,095

Certified for larger and heavier wheelchairs Unique EasyGlide™ pull-out ramp Original Peugeot seating throughout*

* RS model

Easy-use electric winch and parking sensors PLUS Air conditioning, privacy glass and new Bluetooth® connectivity

No obligation UK-wide home demonstrations call 0800 587 9616 Access All Areas_Spring17_9616.indd 8 Horizon_Access_Ad_Feb17.indd 2

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Access All Areas takes a closer look at the Spinal Injuries Association, which provides vital support to people throughout the UK. The Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) is the leading national, user-led, charity for spinal cord injured (SCI) people. Being user led, well placed to understand the everyday needs of living with spinal cord injury. SIA staff are there to meet those needs by providing key services to share information and experiences, and to campaign for change, ensuring each person can lead a full and active life. They can provide support from the moment a spinal cord injury happens and for the rest of the victim's life.

Vision The SIA’s aim is that all spinal cord injured people receive the specialist treatment, care, rehabilitation and

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It may be harder to do certain things but there are ways around everything

support they need to be fully integrated and empowered participants in society.

Eleven years ago, Jordan Bone, who was only 15 at the time, was involved in a traumatic car accident. Following the accident Jordan found out she'd been injured, suffering a C6 complete spinal cord injury. Now 25 years old, Jordan turned her life around through her love for beauty and fashion, setting up her own YouTube channel, which now has over 184,000 subscribers, an Instagram account with 116,000 followers and counts Kylie Jenner amongst her fans.

Jordan, who's now engaged to be married, sees her injury as only a small part of her life, noting that she is primarily a beauty and motivational online influencer and soon to be author.

Jordan wants to change the face of disability and inspire everyone who has a struggle in life.

She explains: “Even though your life seems like it has been turned upside down please know that if you believe in yourself you can still have a wonderful life.

do certain things but there are ways around everything, we just have to do it in a different way.

I even went to New York with a makeup brand. If you’d have told me that when I was lying in the hospital bed or when I was depressed I wouldn’t have believed you.

Jordan concludes: “I wish there was someone in the media who I could’ve looked up to, knowing that despite a high level injury it didn’t mean life was over. If you're ever feeling low, please talk to someone.”

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Find out more about Jordan and the charity at: www.spinal.co.uk

She continued: “It may be harder to

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1. Dragon Speech Recognition Software Turn your tablet or phone into a wireless microphone.

By simply speaking into the device you can create messages, compose emails and documents, search the web and even control your computer. You can also go hands-free with a headset and carry out any number of activities wherever you are.

5. Uber Taxis Uber is a taxi app that allows you to select a suitable vehicle for your needs. Simply create an account with your bank card or PayPal and request a ride from where you are to any number of locations around the UK. It gives you information about your vehicle, its arrival time and even the name of your driver. You can also view your route and estimate the fare before you travel. In some cities, like London, you can also request a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

7. GuideDots Guide Dots is a free Android app for people who are visually impaired.

By combining Google maps, Facebook and powerful crowdsourcing technology, Guide Dots creates a broader and richer sense of the world around you.

2. It's Accessible Find and share accessible places including bars, restaurants, hotels and car parks. This app is community dependent, so the more people use it, the more information will be available. It’s free to use and compatible with all Android and Apple devices. Not only will it help you get out and about, you'll be helping others too!

TOP

10 AP

FOR DISABLE

Just about everyone owns a smartphone or tablet nowadays. apps to choose from but which should you consider Here, we round up the top 10 apps for disabled peo

8. Physiotherapy Exercises More than 1,000 images illustrating 600 exercises suitable for those with spinal cord injury and neurological conditions.

Search, select and save exercises for future reference and even suggest others if you wish.

You can experience an audio journey of your surroundings by easily instructing the app to give you building and route information through voice commands. It’ll also give you alerts when friends are nearby.

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3. Changing Places Toilet Finder No matter what your disability, being able to reach an accessible public toilet in good time is a daily challenge. The Changing Places Toilet Finder app, which can be used on Android devices and is free.

It is a comprehensive and up-todate guide of more than 700 toilets and changing facilities nationwide.

Find out how far you are from one, how to get there, opening hours, how to open the door, whether it's normally locked and information regarding hoists and slings.

TOP

APPS

BLED PEOPLE

owadays. With that comes a seemingly unlimited world of consider and how could they enhance your life? abled people and why you should try them out.

9. Red Panic Button Immediately and urgently notify a number of contacts of your whereabouts with one tap of the red button. This sends alerts to your contacts via text, email, Facebook and Twitter. All you need to do is enter the details of those you wish to alert ahead of using the app, and they'll receive a Google Maps link with your location.

You can even send a photo attachment and record a 10 second voice message.

4. Trip Trip Hurray You'll appreciate how challenging it can be sometimes to plan an accessible yet enjoyable holiday or even just a day out. Help is at hand. The TripTripHurray app is a travel platform for people with specific needs that lets you quickly and easily search for accommodation, public transport, places of interest, shops, restaurants and services. It’s effectively a personalised trip adviser.

6. Just Eat Sometimes it’s just easier to order in! Whether you struggle to cook independently, are ill, tired or rely on a carer who can’t cook (surely not!), Just Eat could be the answer. Simply enter your postcode to view your nearest takeaway restaurants, pay by card or cash and have your food delivered to your door at a time to suit you.

10. Facebook and TWITTER OK, so that’s two apps and yes, they’re among the most popular available and well-known. However, they’re worth mentioning as it’s just as important for disabled people to be able to socialise as it is for anyone else.

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GEARED FOR SUCCESS The new motor racing season is fast approaching and Aaron Morgan is thoroughly looking forward to what it has in-store. We recently sat down with Aaron and asked him about his thoughts on the season ahead.

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See Aaron at: 9th April – Silverstone, 6th May – Oulton Park, 11th June – Snetterton, 16th July – Castle Combe, 20th August – Silverstone, 17th September – Rockingham, and 22nd October – Brands Hatch Follow his progress on our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/ alliedmobility/

“I'm again going to be competing in the Compact Cup. The championship is arguably one of the most successful club championships in the UK. With full grids and close racing, one thing that's certain is it will be an action-packed season.”

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Hi Aaron, how do you feel going into the new season?

With full grids and close racing, one thing that's certain is it will be an action-packed season.

You mentioned that there will be a change in the way you switch gears. Will this impact your driving style?

With amazing race tracks, all over the country, which ones are you particularly looking forward to?

Have you made any changes to your car for the upcoming season?

“I’ll need to draw back to my previous motocross experience to get a good feel for starts and when changing gear on the track.

“Yes, predominantly surrounding the way I operate the clutch. Some welding work on the front roll cage mounts is required as they've deteriorated and need repaired to be safe. A full mechanical overhaul will also be carried out prior to the start of the on-track action.”

This season I'll control the clutch with a hand operated lever, which will be located on the gear stick and will work in a very similar way to a motorbike clutch. I'm a little bit nervous to be using this new system but I’m sure that, with some of the pre-season testing, that I've planned, my confidence will increase.”

Our calendar has been announced for the coming season and I can't wait for it to get started! The season contains some high-speed circuits including Silverstone, Castle Combe and Oulton Park but also the technical nature of Snetterton and Rockingham. Going into the season, I'm feeling positive of being able to improve on my 2016 championship position.

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0800 587 9616

www.alliedmobility.com

ACCESS FOR A NEW

NEARLY NEW

USED

HIRE

Lowest Peugeot WAV

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The UK’s most popular WAV > Easy-clean lowered floor > Unique EasyGlide™ pull out ramp > Original Peugeot seating throughout* > Bluetooth® connectivity > Easy-use electric winch and parking sensors > Air conditioning > Privacy glass

*RS model

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Luxurious quality and style > EasyFold™ go-flat ramp > Full original Volkswagen seating > Air conditioning > Cruise control > Privacy glass > Parking sensors > Assist winch

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No obligation UK-wide home demonstrations call 0800 587 9616 Access All Areas_Spring17_9616.indd 14 DPS_Access_Feb17.indd 2

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Discover the benefits of Allied Aftercare™ alliedmobility.com/aftercare

R ALL

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With Allied Mobility, having your own wheelchair accessible car doesn’t have to cost the earth.

Combine superb accessibility with bags of space.

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Personalised seating layouts Lightweight EasyFold™ ramp Easy-use electric winch and parking sensors PLUS Alloy wheels, privacy glass and new Bluetooth® connectivity

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23/03/2017 15:00 11:28 22/03/2017

A Welcome Surprise Patricia Swain, from Ravenshead, in Nottinghamshire was randomly selected as Allied Mobility's £1,000 freedom voucher prize draw winner.

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It's always nice to win a competition and Patricia Swain was delighted to be the latest recipient of an Allied Mobility freedom voucher. Patricia was presented with the £1,000 freedom voucher at home, alongside her husband Michael, by our Partnerships and Events Executive, Lucy.

Comfort and Joy When asked about her initial reaction on receiving the news she said: “I was amazed. It really was quite a shock. When you enter competitions it’s usually with the expectation that someone else will win.”

I was amazed, it really was quite a shock

Husband Michael added: “I thought it was a joke and asked my wife if she was sure it wasn’t a scam! It’s fantastic news and a great way to start the new year.”

Patricia explained: “I plan to share the money with our family and we're looking into the possibility of a holiday.”

Patricia entered the prize draw at the Yorkshire Mobility Day, held at the Magna Science Centre in Rotherham.

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How do I Enter?

To be in with a chance of winning £1,000 courtesy of Allied Mobility, go to www.alliedmobility.com/ freeprize-draw or fill out a prize draw card at one of our 2017 events.

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LONDON CALLING With Helen Dolphin Helen Dolphin MBE discovers another fascinating attraction in the latest of her series for Access All Areas.

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There's no shortage of things to do in the nation's capital and the Natural History Museum offers something for everyone.

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Arrival If you're looking for something for your whole family to enjoy then I'd highly recommend a visit to the Natural History Museum in Landon.

Blue is life on Earth, green the planet’s evolution, red the planet’s forces and orange the Darwin centre and wildlife garden.

In the Zone

As I find public transport in London difficult to use I decided to drive to the museum. If you're a Blue Badge holder you can book a parking space by calling Security on 020 7942 5000 but as I discovered they go very quickly. If you can’t get one of these spaces, there are also 12 Blue Badge parking spaces on Exhibition Road but these can't be booked in advance. As all these spaces were also all taken, I parked my car in an NCP car park about half a mile away in Kensington High Street.

First I headed to the blue zone. In the Mammals gallery there was an impressive blue whale model and skeleton suspended from the ceiling.

On ground level there were bones from extinct mammoths and giant elk, as well as giraffes, hippos and horses. It was interesting to compare the human brain size to that of a whale and see how animals have changed over the past 55 million year's. Although you could spend a lot of time looking and reading everything in one exhibition.

Once inside the museum I got rid of my coat and bag in the cloakroom. There's a small charge for this so if you don’t want to pay you should leave your belongings in your car. As you enter the museum you're given a map so you can plan which exhibitions you want to see. The museum is split into four distinct zones.

I decided I'd try to see as much of the museum as I could so after a quick tour round mammals I made my way to see the dinosaurs.

As it was the school holidays when I was visiting there were a lot of children and the dinosaurs were clearly the most popular exhibition. Here you can

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see the first fossil ever found from a Tyrannosaurus Rex and the enormous skull of the plant-eating Triceratops.

The cause of great excitement to lots of children was a life-sized model of a roaring T. Rex. Here, you could also explore the different theories as to why the dinosaurs became extinct.

gems including some very impressive diamonds, rubies and sapphires.

However, the Natural History Museum is not just about looking and there were loads of things for children to get involved in. “Creepy Crawlies” had lots for children to see as well as do, including building their own spider.

After the dinosaurs I entered the Human Biology exhibit, which in comparison to most of the museum seemed a little tired. There is currently renovation going on at the site and a lot of the museum is being improved.

However, this exhibit was still a good way to find out about the human body and all its workings.

Where to Eat

The museum was really easy to get about as the corridors were wide and the floors smooth, which made pushing my wheelchair easy.

After finishing looking around the blue zone I decided to go next to the green zone. My favourite exhibit was called “Mineral”, where you got to see many different rocks, minerals and

Looking around a museum this size is hungry work and there were plenty of cafes dotted around. Even in school holidays the queues were short and there was a good selection of food including some amazing cakes. If you prefer you can take your own food and there was a picnic area provided. There are also a number of accessible toilets in the museum but none of them are changing places.

After lunch I finished my visit in the red zone where there was a great exhibition on volcanoes and earthquakes. Here you get to see casts of victims from the Mount Vesuvius eruption of AD 79, as well as lava bombs, volcanic glass hair,

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The museum was easy to get about as the corridors were wide and the floors smooth.

and crystals. I finished my visit in the exhibit called “Earth’s treasures”, which had more amazing gems and precious stones.

The Natural History Museum really is for everyone. Whether you are young or old you'll find something of interest.

If you fancy visiting two museums in one day both the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum are walking distance from here.

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www.nhm.ac.uk If you have a question about access call 0207 942 5000

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\\\ Yorkshire

Mobility Day Join Allied Mobility and friends at the Yorkshire Air Museum on Wednesday, 5th April.

Independence, the versatile Ford Freedom and the classy Volkswagen Vista.

Enjoy a great day out including the opportunity to find out what life was like on a wartime bomber station, as well as learning more about the history of aviation.

Yorkshire has a particular place in aviation, both historically and present day - from Sir George Cayley, the world renowned Father of Aeronautics, to present day aircraft manufacturers.

Throughout the site you can explore aspects of design and technology dating from the 1850s right up to the present day.

At our special Mobility Day you can also discover your perfect wheelchair accessible vehicle, view a wide range of mobility products from specially selected partners and meet some excellent local charities.

Something Everyone

for

View our popular range of wheelchair accessible vehicles, including the UK's favourite WAV, the Peugeot Horizon. Also on display will be the new Ford

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Not only that, we'll be joined by specially selected mobility partners including Minster Mobility, Yorkshire Mobility, Elite Mobility and Oak Tree Mobility, who'll be available to talk you through mobility products that help make life easier, from scooters and wheelchairs to daily living aids and furniture.

We're also delighted to welcome our partners from Motability, Disability Action Yorkshire, AM Racing and Disability Sport Yorkshire.

The event starts at 10am and runs until 4pm, giving you plenty of time to view the vehicles, try the products, speak to our friendly team and enjoy the vast array of exhibits!

Entry to the Yorkshire Air Museum is free and exclusive to Allied Mobility and guests for the day. Parking is completely free too and refreshments will be available throughout.

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Register for your free tickets here at www.alliedmobility.com/events or call us on 0800 916 3013.

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Buy Used Vehicles with Confidence

Approved Used Cars

Allied Mobility customers can buy a used car with complete confidence thanks to our being an RAC Approved Dealer.

RAC BuySure Allied Mobility can now offer RAC BuySure on every used vehicle purchased.

Car Data Check 82 point Vehicle Preparation Standard 12 months RAC Warranty 12 months RAC Breakdown Cover 12 months RAC Accident Care

“Allied Mobility has been confirmed as an RAC Approved Dealer based on quality, integrity and our desire to deliver excellent customer service.�

Interested in viewing an approved used wheelchair accessible vehicle?

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Understanding PAS 2012

What is PAS 2012?

When the first WAV’s came into production most conversions were rudimentary, addressing only access and basic securing of the wheelchair.

However, the WAV industry has grown enormously and with an ageing population the number of disabled people requiring both wheelchair accessible taxis and personal private vehicles is only going to increase. It’s therefore important that there are standards which customers can trust when purchasing a WAV which is why PAS 2012 was introduced.

PAS 2012 has been one of the criteria

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for a new WAV model to be available on the Motability Scheme since 2012 and is also a popular benchmark with local authorities, charities and care home groups for all their WAV purchases.

There are currently 55 models in the UK which hold the PAS Accreditation.

Is this information readily available?

When choosing a WAV it’s important to make sure the vehicle will suit you and all your requirements, including checking that your wheelchair can be carried safely. All WAV convertors should discuss with you what wheelchair weight the restraints have been tested to. Motability recommends customers talk to their WAV convertor to discuss wheelchair compatibility with their individual needs.

Allied Mobility is the leading manufacturer of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles for the UK and Ireland. They have tested up to 200kg on models such as the Peugeot Horizon, Ford Freedom and Ford Independence. Managing director, Peter Facenna, comments:

“

The safety of passengers is of paramount importance

“

Many disabled people benefit from the independence and freedom that a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) provides. Although it’s often a difficult decision going from a standard vehicle to a WAV, most people say they would never go back. Once the decision has been made the next step is to find the WAV that is most suitable and with so many makes and models available, it can be difficult to know where to start.

“Ultimately, the safety of passengers is of paramount importance and we warmly welcome anything that helps to ensure this. The PAS 2012 benchmark should also assist customers to understand the specifications of each vehicle in relation to their particular wheelchair which is of real benefit for anyone choosing a new wheelchair accessible vehicle.”

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*This exclusive offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or used to purchase any stock items. Offer ends 31st October 2017. One offer per household.

17.03 - E&OE - © All rights reserved Oak Tree Mobility Ltd 2017

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New Found Freedom

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The Hallets, from Bournemouth, are loving life with their new Ford Freedom™

Daughter Rachel suffers from mobility difficulties, along with epilepsy and requires a personal assistant on a daily basis. Rachel’s father, Paul had hoped that a move into residential accommodation would give Rachel more independence.

Freedom is something that many of us take for granted. This was limited for the Bournemouth-based Hallett family but the arrival of a brand new Ford Freedom™ mobility car has provided them with a different outlook on life.

He explains: “When Rachel first moved one of the major plus points was that a wheelchair accessible vehicle was available to all residents and she would be able to be more independent. Sadly, with the amount of people staying in the complex, getting access to transport could be pretty difficult as there was high demand to use it.”

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Reassurance It was at this point that the family considered obtaining a wheelchair accessible vehicle for Rachel to give her more individuality.

After trying a number of companies, they found exactly what they were looking for from Allied Mobility.

Paul comments: “Our dealings with Allied Mobility were very reassuring. Our local mobility consultant, Rob, brought two cars to our initial home demonstration, but we actually required something a bit bigger. He reported back to Motability

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where they upgraded our requirements to the next level.

Throughout the whole process, Rob answered all of our questions and we really felt at ease when dealing with him as the service had a great personal touch.”

Open Road The Hallets' new Ford Freedom™ now provides Rachel with a tremendous amount of autonomy as she can travel almost anywhere with her family or personal assistant, whenever she wishes.

Paul explained: “Rachel loves to go swimming and, with her Ford Freedom™, she can pretty much go along to the pool anytime she likes.

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We really felt at ease when dealing with Rob as the service had a great personal touch.

“Swimming is only the start of it. The vehicle allows her to go out shopping with her carer, to zoos, which she loves visiting, and along the sea front at Weymouth. She can now access almost anything and it’s amazing to see.”

Freedom™ is available to buy, rent or via the Motability Scheme, with Advance Payment starting from £1,895.

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0800 916 0089

info@alliedmobility.com www.alliedmobility.com/ freedom

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0800 587 9616

www.alliedmobility.com

Discover the benefits of Allied Aftercare™ alliedmobility.com/aftercare

ENJOY YOUR

FREEDOM

Accessibility, comfort and first class safety

TM

3 - 7 seats

Vehicles in stock now

ADVANCE PAYMENT from only

FORD CONNECT

FREEDOM

£1,895

Easy clean lowered floor Original Ford seating throughout*

RS model

*

RE model forlarger largerand wheelchairs Certifi ed for heavier wheelchairs Unique EasyGlide™ pull-out ramp Easy-use electric winch and parking sensors PLUS air conditioning and privacy glass.

Grand Freedom with extra seating now available

No obligation UK-wide home demonstrations call 0800 587 9616 Access All Areas_Spring17_9616.indd 26 Freedom_AccessAd_Feb17.indd 2

23/03/2017 15:04 11:28 22/03/2017

A LANDMARK CASE With DOUG PAULLEY When Doug Paulley set off to meet his parents for lunch back in 2012 he didn't expect to embark on a five year legal journey that would end in the Supreme Court.

0800 587 9616 15:04

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The recent Paulley vs FirstGroup judgment could have far reaching implications for transport providers.

Long Road It was on 24th February 2012 that Doug Paulley attempted to board a FirstGroup bus from Wetherby to Leeds.

The driver asked him to wait, as the wheelchair space was currently taken by a mother with her sleeping child in a pushchair.

When the driver asked the woman to leave the space she refused, meaning Mr Paulley was unable to board the bus and missed his rail connection.

He explains: ‘This case was not about pitting wheelchair users against pushchair users. I am sympathetic to the difficulties pushchair users face. I believe strongly that public transport should be made as accessible and easy as possible for everybody to use.’

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When he tried to get on the bus, which had a sign that read "please give up this space if needed for a wheelchair user", the woman insisted she could not fold the buggy and did not move even when asked to by the driver.

Doug continues: ‘Bus companies must make it very clear to passengers who may wish to occupy the wheelchair space that the space is there for disabled people. The intent is to proactively ensure that non-disabled people intending to occupy the wheelchair space are in no doubt that they are required to move should a disabled person need the space. In time, this should hopefully make such conflicts less frequent.’

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It was not enough for FirstGroup to instruct its drivers simply to request non-wheelchair users to vacate the space and to do nothing further if the request was rejected.

Important Milestone All seven Supreme Court Justices were unanimous in their decision that the company could and should have done more to make sure that the wheelchair space was available to Doug Paulley.

Lord Neuberger concluded: ‘It was not enough for FirstGroup to instruct its drivers simply to request nonwheelchair users to vacate the space and to do nothing further if the request was rejected.

He continued: ‘It would be unjustifiable for a bus-operating company to have a policy which does not require some further step of the bus driver in any circumstances. I therefore find it hard to see how it would be unreasonable to expect FirstGroup to train its drivers to do a bit more, when appropriate, if and when an initial request is not complied with.’

Campaigners see this as a huge step forward. Ultimately the driver needs to make their own decision as to whether or not the person is being unreasonable in refusing to move. In addition, if they believe that they are then he or she has to tell them that they are required to do so.

The Future So what changes can we expect to see going forward?

Doug explaines: ‘The Supreme Court Justices are clear that the driver has an obligation to use his or her own judgment in such situations. He or she can’t simply accept a passenger’s refusal to move from the wheelchair space.

should make the person aware in no uncertain terms that they are required to move, including by refusing to move the bus for several minutes.’

He concluded: ‘Who would have thought that five years on I'd still be discussing the day I had that problem going across to see my parents for lunch?’

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To read Doug Paulley's blog visit www.kingqueen.org.uk

He adds: ‘The driver is required to make their own assessment and, if they believe that the person in the space is illegitimate in refusing to move, they

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Premier League Clubs Face Penalties

At least three clubs are at risk of missing a self-imposed deadline to improve access for disabled fans, the Premier League has said.

A report suggests Bournemouth, Chelsea and Watford may not fulfil a pledge to meet standards by August 2017.

It stresses that clubs have been "working hard on delivery" since a 2014 BBC report found that 17 of 20 clubs did not provide enough wheelchair spaces.

Championing Local Causes The Wimbledon Foundation, the charity of The All England Lawn Tennis Club, is offering funding of £50,000 to local charities and community organisations to help meet social needs in Merton and Wandsworth.

GB Wheelchair Rugby Launches Fundraising Bid Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby has launched a fundraising campaign after losing its appeal against the removal of UK Sport funding.

It was felt the team, ranked fifth in the world, was not a credible medal challenger for the Tokyo Paralympics.

Vice-captain Gavin Walker commented: "Since London we have made massive progress and I believe we are good enough to win a medal in Tokyo."

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One of the successful applicants to the Wimbledon Foundation Community Fund is Lady Allen Adventure Playground in Battersea. The playground provides a safe place for children with a range of disabilities to play freely in a setting which support their requirements.

Michael Koudounas, Trusts and Foundation Manager at KIDS said: “The grant is allowing 40 disabled children and young people from low income families to come to the playground and have the opportunity to play and learn, build friendships and to increase their sense of independence.”

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Seven-time Paralympic swimming champion Sascha Kindred has announced his retirement after a 23-year international career. The 39-year-old has been one of the leading figures in the sport since he made his international debut in 1994.

Last year, he won gold in the SM6 200m individual medley at the Rio Paralympics - his sixth Games.

Sascha explains: "The physical and mental demands to be an elite athlete are becoming too much," he admitted.

Kindred, who has cerebral palsy which affects the right side of his body, had his funding cut after Rio when he was left off the British Swimming 2017 podium programme.

He continued: "Knowing when to stop a career is a very hard decision to make especially when it's part of your life but stopping with Paralympic gold and a world record is very pleasing," he said.

"From learning to swim at 11 and making my major

championship debut at 16 at the inaugural World Championships in Malta, I never dreamt of being an international swimmer for more than two decades.

The Manchester United fan will enjoy spending more time with his biggest fans, wife Nyree (herself a former GB Paraswimmer) and daughter Ella and hopefully go on to inspire another generation of Para-swimmers.

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Stopping with Paralympic gold and a world record is very pleasing

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Swimming Champion Announces Retirement

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Find out more at saschakindredco.uk or @SaschaKindfred

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“The Festival has changed my life. We can now drive to the coast and back in complete comfort.”

Allied Mobility is the UK’s leading wheelchair accessible vehicles specialist, offering a wide range of mobility cars throughout the UK. Here’s just a few reasons why.

FIAT FESTIVAL The Maskell Family, Norfolk

“The whole process has been so smooth from start to finish.”

PEUGEOT HORIZON The Gallier Family, Somerset

FORD FREEDOM The Lidstone Family, Hampshire

“Because of our son’s condition lots of light is very important to him so the large windows in the Freedom are brilliant”

0800 587 9616

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