This document outlines our most serious concerns about the DfT Mobility Devices Consultation and offers some potential solutions.
We think more than one person should be able to use a mobility aid at a time, as long as the aid is constructed or adapted to carry more than one person.
We think that Disabled people using appropriate mobility devices at pedestrian speeds should be recognised in law as pedestrians, just the same as people walking or running.
Children and young people aged under 14 are only allowed to use powered aids with a top speed of 4mph – a brisk walking speed. That means children aged under 14 who need power to go above walking speed can’t keep up with friends who are running, scooting or cycling.
Legalising tandem mobility scooters and other multi-person mobility aids would make a huge difference to many thousands of people’s independence, health and participation in society each year.
While we are disappointed that a full ban with exemptions will not be implemented across England, if implemented well, measures proposed to enable local government to restrict and enforce against pavement parking have huge potential.
