Mobility in Motion Launches New EV Accessibility Product
Mobility in Motion, winner of the Disability Smart Customer Experience Award (Small Org) at the Business Disability Forum Awards, is proud to unveil a new innovative mobility device loading solution designed with disabled electric vehicle (EV) users in mind. With an estimated 1.35 million disabled people in the UK relying on public charging for their EVs or hybrids, and a 28% increase in trips made by disabled adult drivers since 2021(1), demand for accessible, EV-compatible mobility solutions is higher than ever. While not an EV charging product, Mobility in Motion’s latest innovation responds to a different but equally critical accessibility challenge; enabling disabled drivers to easily load and stow mobility devices (such as wheelchairs), using a powered hoist that is specifically designed to be compatible with EVs. Smart Lifter Power Pack: Video After speaking with customers and understanding their specific needs, Mobility in Motion created the Smart Lifter Power Pack – a game-changing battery pack upgrade for the Smart Lifter range of boot hoists, enabling: Industry Recognition for Innovation and Inclusivity Mobility in Motion was recognised at the Disability Smart Awards 2025 for its commitment to truly inclusive customer service and for breaking down barriers faced by disabled people. This recognition reflects the company’s broader approach to accessibility, demonstrated by innovative products, such as the Smart Lifter Power Pack. The Business Disability Forum judging panel commended Mobility in Motion on their Customer Experience Award win, saying: “Their commitment to making car travel accessible is clear. The positive impact on customers is evident through the enthusiastic reviews. Independent travel is life-changing, and Mobility in Motion is making that a reality for many.” Driving Change “We’re thrilled to not only receive recognition for our efforts but to continue driving change among the disabled driving community with the launch of this innovative product,” said Bruce Lauder, Head of Sales & Marketing at Mobility in Motion. “Solutions like our latest Power Pack are purpose-built for modern electric vehicles – combining responsive performance, clean design, and accessibility to support the EV transition for all drivers.”
Employment for autistic people
Employment for autistic people and delivery of NHS and local authority services On Monday, the House of Lords Autism Act 2009 Committee will be holding two evidence sessions as part of its inquiry into the Act. During the first session the committee will hear further evidence on key barriers to enabling autistic people to find and stay in work and effective ways to overcome those barriers. The second session will look at the commissioning and delivery of NHS and local authority services for autistic people in the context of the Autism Act 2009. Giving evidence at 14:45 will be: Questions the committee is likely to ask include: Giving evidence at 15:50 will be: Questions the committee is likely to ask include: The sessions will take place on Monday 2 June and can be followed live on parliamentlive.tv
Teaching new tricks so support dog Essi can cater to Kym’s needs
Kym Stretton’s progressive health conditions mean that lately she has found it difficult to dress and undress herself. But thanks to newly-qualified support dog Essi, Kym doesn’t have to lean on her family for help – the super-clever Red Fox Labrador helps her to take off her clothes. The 62-year-old was born with hypophosphatemic rickets, or osteoamalacia, meaning she cannot absorb calcium and is resistant to Vitamin D. In recent years, wheelchair user Kym has also developed spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, and she has now lost 50 per cent of movement in her neck and shoulders. “She gets my coat off, or any tops I wear,” said Kym, who lives in Forest Town, Mansfield with husband Ray, 68. “That’s one of the big things she does for me. “It’s fantastic that each dog is individually trained for the client’s needs, and if anything changes, you can contact Support Dogs and say ‘I need this…’. Essi, who can also load and unload the washing machine and open doors, is the sixth support dog Kym has had from the national Support Dogs charity, which trains and provides specialist assistance dogs to help autistic children, as well as adults with epilepsy or a physical disability, to live safer, more independent lives. The pooch follows in the pawprints of Kym’s previous support dogs, after the charity trained her pet dog Zeta in 1997, then pet Zoe, and provided and trained her third and fourth, Baxter and Marley – who could help her up and down stairs, and her fifth, Blade, who retired. And it seems sixth dog Essi has a ‘sixth sense’ – she intuitively helps Kym, often before Kym even realises she needs help. “She loves to be doing something – she’s really focused on work,” she said. “She’s just like Baxter. I always say Baxter sent her. “When I come in from outside and need to take my shoes off, I don’t have to ask her for help. “There are a lot of things I don’t have to ask her to do – I didn’t know I had dropped my keys in the supermarket, I looked down and she was holding them.” Essi and Kym’s recent graduation as a successful Support Dogs partnership marks 28 years of the charity’s life-changing aid for Kym. And it’s not just a benefit for her – it has massively impacted Ray, a retired PAT tester. “Before I had my first support dog, he used to phone me all the time from work, asking if I was okay,” said Kym. “It was like he relaxed. Before having support dogs, I’d had falls where I’d had to phone him and say ‘I’m on the floor’.” But Kym’s support dogs have helped her with her balance, or could fetch help from her parents, Iris and Alf Greene, who are her next-door neighbours. Kym was a Support Dogs trustee for 12 years and chairman of trustees for six. She has seen the charity grow beyond recognition. She said there was no fundraising manager when she first got involved, and she and a band of other clients helped to raise vital cash. She has made some good friends over the years, including fellow client Toni Brown-Griffin, whose dual epilepsy seizure alert/guide dog was trained by the charity, and Kym is godmother to one of Toni’s daughters. Kym can’t wait to see Support Dogs move into its new national centre of excellence, at Hillsborough, ahead of a capital funding appeal. “This charity has meant everything to me for so many years,” said Kym. “I’ve watched it grow so much, it’s lovely to see. It’s been a big part of my life. The charity means a lot not only to me but also the difference I’ve seen it make to other people – Toni’s daughters are 25 and 19 and have never seen her have a seizure. “I can also remember the first autism dog we trained, thanks to Rita Howson, the chief executive pushing the idea – that young client was non-verbal, but now he can speak two languages.” To find out more about the life-changing work of Support Dogs, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.
Parking warning issued to Blue Badge holders
For example, if you are travelling to London, there are different local regulations to follow when it comes to specific boroughs, including: Outside of London, there are also different regulations that Blue Badge holders must check before parking at popular holiday destinations: It is crucial that you check first where you can park on the government website to prevent a parking ticket, or on the local council’s website if you’re parking in Scotland.” “Private land (like airports or hospital car parks) often have their own rules. Some car parks or town centres may offer free parking for blue badge holders, but you should always check local signage or the council website before relying on this. Ultimately, you still have to abide by the Highway Code. For example, blue badge holders cannot park: “Blue badge holders can park on double yellow lines for up to 3 hours if there are no other restrictions, such as a loading ban. However, you should never forget to display your parking clock clearly showing your 15-minute arrival time. Once drivers leave the spot, they must wait at least 1 hour before parking in the same place again. Failing to do these things can result in fines of up to £80.” “Make sure that the blue badge is clearly visible from outside the vehicle. It is important to remember that the front-side of the badge should permanently be on show, not the photo side. An incorrectly displayed badge can result in a parking fine, even if the driver is entitled to be there – costing UK drivers up to £130, if they’re parking in London.” Important note: Police officers, traffic wardens and some other people may ask to see your blue badge at any point. This also includes Civil Enforcement Officers, who may be in plain clothes. While you do have to show the badge to these members of authority upon request, you do also have the right to ask them for their ID first.”
Performing Arts Showcase
The Together Trust, a leading disability charity in the North West, is pleased to announce its annual Music and Performing Arts Showcase, taking place on Wednesday 4 June at the Lowry Theatre in Salford. This event will feature performances by students from specialist schools across Greater Manchester. The showcase will commence at 10:00 AM. Participating schools will present the exceptional talents of its students, highlighting their achievements. The Music and Performing Arts Showcase aims to illustrate the transformative power of the arts and the joy, hope, and fulfilment that can arise from fostering inclusion and breaking down barriers. We invite you to join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of these students. Tickets are available for £5 per person for adults, and at a reduced price of £2.50 per person for children, senior citizens, students with disabilities, and school groups. For ticket purchases, please visit thelowry.com/whats-on/459/together-trust-music-and-performing-arts-showcase or contact the Lowry’s box office at 0161 876 2000. About the Together Trust charity Since 1870 the Together Trust has been providing life-changing care, support and education services in the North-west of England. The charity works to challenge the negative perceptions and missed opportunities that people with disabilities, autism or complex needs and care experienced people face in society. With a team of over 900 dedicated people, they work flat out to create a society where people are valued within their communities. Find out more about the Together Trust on our website www.togethertrust.org.uk To contact us about this story, email: communications@togethertrust.org.uk
Accessibility app Snowball
Accessibility app Snowball uses TfL data to make it easier for disabled people to plan journeys in the capital Snowball, the pioneering app described as ‘TripAdvisor for the disabled community’, is using Transport for London (TfL) data to integrate all the accessible stations on the London transport network into its mobile app, making it easier for disabled people to plan outings in the capital. The free Snowball mobile app, which operates worldwide helps users find and review restaurants, shops, and other businesses and services based on how accessible they are for disabled people. Features include user reviews, search functionality, and the option to share your review on Facebook – all designed with accessibility in mind. Through TfL’s open data policy, a step-free station map now shows in all London search results in Snowball, allowing users to plan a trip from start to finish in just one app. All TfL stations feature on the map, with information on the growing number of step-free stations in London regularly updated. There are currently 93 London Underground stations with step-free access, including Knightsbridge which recently gained a brand-new step-free entrance with two lifts. More than 60 London Overground stations, all Elizabeth line and DLR stations, and all tram stops have step-free access, and TfL’s bus network is one of the most accessible in the world. London residents with certain disabilities are eligible for free travel at any time on TfL’s services including on buses, DLR, Elizabeth line, London Overground, trams, Tube and river services with London Council’s Disabled Person’s Freedom Pass. To further improve ease of travel, Snowball has introduced a traffic light accessibility system to the app. This feature allows users to instantly identify whether a station has step-free access: These ratings were personally created by Simon Sansome, the app’s founder and a wheelchair user himself, who, alongside his team, visited and tested accessibility at every London station to ensure the system reflects real-world experiences. In the UK, approximately 16 million people are disabled, accounting for 24 percent of the population. In London alone, 13.2 percent of residents are disabled, underscoring the need for accessible public transportation options. The new Snowball offering complements the existing step-free Tube map on the free TfL Go app, which has detailed information about accessibility features at each station and a real-time step-free journey planning tool, while TfL’s accessible bus service provides another reliable way to travel, especially in outer London. Simon Sansome, founder of Snowball, said: “Our goal is to make London more navigable for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. By highlighting step-free stations and introducing our traffic light system, we aim to remove barriers and promote inclusivity across the city’s transportation network.” Emma Strain, TfL’s Customer Director, said: “London is a vast city and it’s so important that disabled people feel confident planning journeys here. Our TfL Go app has long been an essential resource for people with accessibility needs travelling on our network, and now that our step-free data has been integrated into the Snowball app, their users can consider the accessibility of their destination and plan their journey in just one app. “This runs alongside our services such as Turn Up and Go, improvements to toilet provision and work to make more stations step-free, with the recent addition of a step-free entrance at Knightsbridge. Our customer inclusion plan Equity in Motion, now includes more than 100 actions to make London’s transport more accessible, inclusive, and fair.” Paralympic athlete Hannah Cockroft, said: “Using public transport as a wheelchair user in London has always been a complicated and usually avoided situation. Planning journeys between accessible Tube stations takes meticulous planning, and knowing what stations are manned for assistance was a game of luck. Now, having all the information you might need to make a journey in one place will take so much anxiety and research out of travelling in and around London. By adding such a simple but much-needed tool to the app, Snowball and TfL are giving disabled users the confidence they need to get about easily.” Snowball is available for download on both Apple and Android devices.
The world’s first accessible pushchair
National disability charity, Designability, is gifting twenty accessible pushchairs to families across the UK following successful early user trials and multiple product award wins. With no accessible pushchair products currently available on the global market, there is no safe way for disabled parents or carers in manual wheelchairs to get out independently with their baby or young child. Parents either resort to having their child sit on their lap, which is often unsafe and uncomfortable, or are left isolated at home or dependent on a non-disabled partner or carer. This can lead to feeling like a ‘lesser parent’ and ‘disempowered’. Fiona Dick, one of the twenty accessible pushchair participants, said “when you see other mums out on their own, it’s heartbreaking. I’d like to be able to go out for a coffee or to the shops or the park, but you can’t as you can’t push a pushchair whilst pushing a wheelchair.” The groundbreaking accessible pushchair can be used by a manual wheelchair-using parent or carer, and has been designed with mass manufacture in mind. The innovative design replaces the traditional rear wheels/footbrake assembly, turning any conventional pushchair into an accessible pushchair. Designability has launched a six-month trial of twenty accessible pushchairs to a range of disabled parents and carers across the UK. Their feedback will provide valuable insight into how the pushchairs are used and their impact on the families. The pushchairs are being gifted to the participants so they can keep them once the trial is complete. Another of the twenty recipients, Paul Sloan, shared his thoughts on the positive impact the accessible pushchair will have on his life. “It’s more than just a pushchair. Having a piece of hardware that takes away one worry means that so many other things will become easier because I can just get up and go.” Paul also hopes that being seen in an accessible pushchair will initiate new conversations around accessible products for disabled parents. “Rather than being the ‘inspirational dad who’s taking care of his kids’ (as that’s what I should be doing, quite frankly), the focus can be ‘here’s this amazing contraption that they’ve never seen before and it’s great!’” The charity worked in partnership with leading UK pushchair manufacturer Mamas & Papas to ensure the pushchair complies with British Safety Standards. Each of the twenty selected families will receive a Mamas & Papas pushchair adapted into an accessible pushchair, completely free of charge. Known for co-designing innovative products with and for disabled people that reduce everyday barriers, Designability launched their revolutionary accessible pushchair for wheelchair users in 2023. It has won multiple international awards, including Best Design for Humanity in the European Product Design Awards and the prestigious 2024 GOOD DESIGN Award for transportation. This six-month trial is a key stage in understanding how the accessible pushchairs are being used and the impact they have on disabled parents and carers, and their families. Designability’s Director of Design & Innovation, Matt Ford, explained the inspiration behind the pushchair design: “As a national disability charity, we have been aware of the need for this product for many years. It is our most requested product, and we estimate that there are around 20,000 disabled parents in the UK alone who could benefit.” “We’re so excited for more manual wheelchair users to use the accessible pushchair and to show everybody what it can do! Our goal is to get a mainstream nursery product out into the world that changes the lives of the disabled parents and carers, and their families too.” http://www.designability.org.uk/
School leaders leaving amid soaring stress levels
English schools could be facing a leadership crisis as workplace stress and poor mental health hits senior figures. A survey of 500 school leaders and head teachers across England has revealed that one in four are planning to leave their roles within the next three years, with nearly a quarter (23%) blaming stress and poor mental health Commercial Services Group, who commissioned the survey, said the impending exodus comes at a time when school leaders are under pressure to make difficult decisions to balance increasingly limited budgets. Nearly a quarter (24%) of schools’ plan to cut back on essential teaching materials like classroom supplies. Fewer than one in ten schools report making no financial cutbacks at all. Matt Johnson, CEO of Commercial Services Group, said:“These findings deliver a clear and urgent message, that school and trust leaders need greater support. They are working diligently in increasingly difficult conditions, often forced to make impossible decisions. This is not a failure of leadership, it’s a universal issue that calls for a collective, sector-wide response. We’re committed to standing alongside education leaders to help create sustainable, practical solutions that support both staff and students.” The ongoing struggle to recruit and retain staff is cited by one in five education leaders (20%) as a key driver of burnout and resignation. Closely followed are frustrations with government policies (18%) and the relentless pressure of accountability measures, including Ofsted inspections and exam results (17%). These findings suggest leaders are not stepping away due to a lack of commitment, they are being overwhelmed by inherent structural challenges beyond their control. Commercial Services Group is a public sector-owned organisation that reinvests every penny back into the communities it serves. Supporting over 22,000 organisations and thousands of schools across the UK, its services span procurement, HR, energy management, recruitment, Special educational needs and disability (SEND) support, legal services, school supplies, and school improvement. Matt added: “There is a real opportunity now to form stronger alignment between government, the education sector, and those of us who support it. Our role is to listen, share evidence-based insight, and help create a collaborative environment that enable leaders to focus on what matters most, delivering high-quality education for every child.” To find out more, visit www.commercialservices.org.uk.
Dyslexia Awards return
The prestigious Dyslexia Awards are set to make their grand return this year, spotlighting the remarkable achievements of dyslexics and the dedicated individuals and organisations that support them. This acclaimed event, known for its inspiring atmosphere and community spirit, is scheduled to take place this autumn in the West Midlands and individuals, educators and businesses from across the UK are invited to get involved. Elizabeth Wilkinson MBE, the founder of The Dyslexia Awards, is excited to announce the reopening of nominations for the much-anticipated event. As a champion for dyslexics, Elizabeth said: “Each ceremony brings new stories of extraordinary talent and perseverance that truly inspire. Every Dyslexia Awards celebration evening is packed with individuals whose achievements deserve the spotlight.” This year’s awards will feature 10 different categories designed to recognise the diverse talents and contributions of the dyslexic community and their supporters. New for 2025 is the STEMM Award celebrating the achievements of dyslexic individuals who are over the age of 18 that have made significant contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or medicine. The Young Entrepreneur Award continues to celebrate young dyslexics aged 16 to 21 who exhibit business acumen, demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial skills and achieved success. The full list of adult and youth categories includes: Amazing Artist (18+), Excellent Educator (18 +), Supportive Employer (18+), Community Shining Star (20+), Innovation (18+), Young Entrepreneur (16-21), Community Shining Star Award (13-19), Learning Support (18+), Entrepreneur (21+) and STEMM (18+). Previous winners have gone on to make significant impacts in various fields, demonstrating how dyslexic thinking can lead to innovation and success. Dyslexia, affecting approximately one in ten people, encompasses a range of challenges primarily related to language processing, memory, and retention. However, Elizabeth, who was made an MBE for her services to the dyslexic community, said: “With appropriate teaching and the encouragement to follow their dreams and strengths, dyslexics can and do succeed in all walks of life and professions.” The Dyslexia Awards started out as a regional awards initiative in Shropshire but its growth to become a nationally celebrated event underscores the growing awareness and advocacy for dyslexic individuals across the UK. Notable figures from various sectors, including arts, sports, and business, continue to share their stories, fostering a more inclusive society. Nominations are now open and will be accepted until 30 June 2025. To nominate a deserving candidate or to find out more about the categories and the nomination process, please visit here. Award winners will be announced on September 20 at a celebration event at the Mercure Telford Centre Hotel in Telford.