New Forum Service for Motability “New Deal” Customers
The Forum has agreed a new arrangement with Motability Operations to provide assessments, familiarisation, information and advice to any of their “New Deal” customers who require it.
Under the “New Deal,” Motability have focussed on the needs of customers who require adaptations to drive or to access the vehicle. They now offer popular adaptations, such as push-pull hand controls and left-foot accelerators, at no additional cost and there are many other adaptations at more affordable prices. There is a far greater selection of automatic cars and a range of vehicles adapted to carry passengers in wheelchairs (many at nil advance payment).
The new scheme is far simpler for the customer and adaptations can be selected at the same as ordering the vehicle at the dealer. A visit to a Mobility Centre will be offered to all customers who want to be sure of their needs, try out equipment etc. Watch this space for more details!
MAVIS to Close
The Department for Transport’s own Mobility Centre, the MAVIS (based in Crowthorne, Berkshire) is to close on 31st March 2007. A new, small, in-house team will be set up within the Mobility and Inclusion Unit of the DfT with the function of developing and monitoring standards, encouraging new entrants to the market and commissioning research. It was felt that these new functions were incompatible with continued MAVIS operation.
Forum to Take Over National Advice and Information Service
The Forum will take over operation of the National Advice and Information Service, dealing with all aspects of outdoor mobility, from 1st April 2007 utilising its freephone number 0800 559 3636
Forum Develops Drive from Wheelchair Assessment Services
People with a mobility impairment who require a complex vehicle that allows them to drive from their wheelchair will now be able to access a new UK- wide assessment and tuition service operated by the Forum.
Two new, top of the range, Chrysler Voyager vehicles have been specially adapted to allow independent access by a wheelchair user, who can then drive without transferring to another seat. These vehicles are being trialled by seven Centres then will be shared, on a published rota, by all participating Centres within the UK.
Ed Passant, Chief Executive of the Forum said “This is a unique development that will allow people who can’t transfer independently to a driving seat to undertake a driving assessment. These vehicles will also be available for tuition – a service that is vital when you consider that these types of vehicles can cost well in excess of £50,000. Until now, people have been faced with paying vast sums of money for a vehicle without really knowing whether it will meet their needs. Now they can access independent professional support before they buy. Personal mobility is absolutely vital if people are to play a full role in the life and work of their community and this is a real advance in the quality of service that is available to people with a mobility impairment.”