Scootability offers short-term loans of mobility scooters and power chairs to residents to use from their homes. As well as delivering and collecting vehicles from users’ homes, the scheme offers full training to all users and minor home adaptations where required. The vehicles are available for up to four days at a time.
The scheme aims to help older and disabled people improve their quality of life through much improved independence and flexibility, providing an additional accessible transport option to existing services such as Dial-a-Ride and Taxicard.
Scootability will run as a trial until March 2009 and is provided by a partnership of Liveability Waltham Forest, Transport for London and Waltham Forest Council. Depending on the success of the scheme and the availability of funding, the scheme may be extended beyond the trial period.
Eligibility
The scheme is for residents of Waltham Forest aged 16 and over who have difficultly getting around, whether through age or a disability. Applicants will need to provide proof of address.
Home assessment and training
Each application includes a home assessment and full training in the use of the vehicle. The home assessment involves a visit to an applicant’s home to ensure it has adequate access, storage space and charging facilities for the vehicle. If necessary, minor home adaptations can be made, such as portable ramps. One-to-one training is also provided to ensure that users feel safe and confident using a vehicle.
Cost to users
Throughout the trial, membership of Scootability is free. A nominal charge of £2 is made each time a vehicle is borrowed.
How to join
If you are interested in joining the scheme, an application form can be requested by contacting Liveability Waltham Forest on 020 8520 3366 or liveabilitywf@googlemail.com or you can download the scootability application form (41KB PDF file)
