Mobility Scooter Freedom
A mobility scooter, donated by Warwickshire Trading Standards Service, has literally “changed the life” of lucky Stephen Beddow of Polesworth.
Stephen attends The Branch Polesworth, a satellite centre of The Shortwoods Community Support Service in Dordon. The service received the free mobility scooter following product safety tests by the Trading Standards Service.
For Stephen this has meant a new lease of life and more independence. Stephen “drives” himself to his weekly art classes with his carer now walking by his side instead of driving him in her car. Stephen’s confidence has grown and as he says “the scooter has changed his life”.
Kim Ford, manager of the service said “seeing the difference in Stephen is a joy, especially as we could not have funded a scooter for the centre. It really has made a big difference. “
But, Stephen will have to watch out as his friends at The Branch have seen his enjoyment and freedom on the scooter and are queuing up to have a go!”
Warwickshire County Councillor Richard Hobbs, Portfolio Holder for Community Protection is delighted at the-two fold benefit from the work of the Trading Standards Service.
“Not only can we reassure the public about the safety of these mobility vehicles, Stephen and his friends can now enjoy greater independence.”
Warwickshire Trading Standards Service purchased two scooters and an electric wheelchair for a safety testing project. The scooters and chair were examined to ensure they met appropriate British Standards. Tests included checks on stability, braking systems, control and labelling. All three mobility aids passed the checks and met the standards.
Following the tests the Trading Standards Service donated the two scooters to the Adult Health & Community Services Directorate and the wheelchair was given to the County Council’s Disability Staff Network.