The Countryside Mobility scheme, run by Devon charity Living Options Devon,
is working to make the South West a truly ‘accessible’ tourism destination
by improving access to the countryside for people with limited mobility.
Based on the principle of urban Shopmobility schemes, ‘Tramper’ all-terrain
mobility scooters and wheelchair accessible ‘Wheelyboats’ are now available
for hire at more than 30 countryside locations across Cornwall, Devon,
Dorset, Gloucestershire and Somerset with more to follow.
James Maben, Countryside Mobility Project Manager said: “with such a varied
selection of sites now involved, people with limited mobility have some
fantastic opportunities to get out and explore the region.” “There is
something for everyone – from wild Exmoor moorland to peaceful country parks
and beautiful sections of the South West Coast Path.”
“Feedback from people using the Trampers has been excellent and a number of
our members have told us they planned a holiday in the region specifically
as a result of the scheme being set up. This clearly demonstrates how the
scheme is helping to make the south west a truly accessible visitor
destination and I hope we can develop more partnerships within the tourism
industry to improve accessibility at more visitor attractions.”
The scheme has been supported with a grant from Natural England as part of
its Access to Nature programme, funded from the Big Lottery Fund’s Changing
Spaces programme.
To hire Trampers people need to join the Countryside Mobility membership
scheme which is £10.00 per year or £2.50 for 4 weeks. Becoming a member
means people receive proper training in how to use the equipment safely and
includes use of all Tramper sites in the South West.
The equipment can be used by anyone who has a permanent or temporary
mobility impairment that makes walking difficult. People do not have to be
registered as disabled or have a Blue Badge.
Full details about the scheme, the sites, and how to become a member can be
found on the website www.countrysidemobility.org or by telephoning 01392
459222.
TRAMPER
TRAMPER
WHEELYBOAT
