Many of the people who walk into Stratford Shopmobility don't think they need a scooter. "I'm not old enough." "I don't want to give in." "I'll be an embarrassment to the family." Mike, who runs Shopmobility, hears it every week. And they're his favourite customers.
Why Mike loves the doubters
"After their first go they come back with a stupid grin on their face, saying it's the best time they've had in ages."
Mike knows the feeling. He's used a scooter for years, and his message is simple: "Being less mobile isn't an encumbrance. It's an attitude. Live life to the full."
What happens when you arrive
- We get you registered. Bring two forms of ID, one with a photo. It takes a few minutes.
- We show you how it works. Forward, back, speed, brakes and how to get on and off safely.
- You practise first. There's a quiet path outside the shop that hardly anyone uses. "It's our test track," says Mike. "You can go backwards and forwards as many times as you like before you head into busy town."
- Off you go. With the team's encouragement, even the most nervous first-timers soon feel confident enough to enjoy Stratford's shops, history and river.
Who Shopmobility is for
Anyone with limited mobility who wants to enjoy the town: people with breathing difficulties, walking problems or general bad health, and anyone who gets tired walking round. People also use us to get to the Maybird Shopping Centre and to hospital appointments.
It's not just about scooters
Mike and the team have worked hard to make Shopmobility somewhere you want to be, not somewhere you have to go. "People used to find it a bit boring. Now we want you to come in for a chat, a giggle and a laugh, not just to talk about problems. Then go and have fun around town." You may have seen the team's videos on social media.
Not sure a scooter is right for you?
Hiring for a day is the easiest way to find out. If you love it, we can help you choose your own, and you'll know what you like. Read what are the different types of mobility scooters? Two of our hire scooters, the Rascal Vierra and the Kymco Maxi XLS, are also among our best sellers.
If standing up or getting on and off is hard, a wheelchair may suit you better. We hire those too, including the Jazzy Air 2 electric wheelchair.
Book your first hire
Day hire is by donation. See prices, opening times and how to book. Please book ahead on 01789 339 736, because in quieter times we may not open if nothing is booked. Then plan your day with Mike's day out in Stratford on a scooter.
"We are here to help, here to support and here to encourage," says Mike, "to make sure you have the best time possible and have a giggle and a laugh with family and friends."
Stratford Shopmobility is a charity. Day hire is by donation, and we rely on your support to keep our scooters on the road. Donate, give us your old scooter, or find out other ways to help.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Blue Badge to hire from Shopmobility?
No. Anyone with a mobility need can hire, including if you just get tired walking round town.
I've never driven a scooter. Will you show me?
Yes. We show you everything, and you can practise on our quiet path before you go into town.
Can I book for someone else?
Yes. Many of our bookings come from sons, daughters and friends.
How much does it cost?
A single day's hire is by donation.
