Using a mobility scooter is a great way to stay independent and keep active out and about on the roads and pavements of Norfolk.

Mobility scooters are becoming more popular as people realise the benefits of using the vehicles to carry out day-to-day tasks, visit friends and family and retain their freedom. 

The chances are that you know someone who uses one or is considering becoming a user in the near future, or perhaps you are a user yourself. There is currently estimated to be around 330,000 mobility scooter users in the UK.

"These events aim to enhance the users' ability to use their scooter in a safe and appropriate manner"

Penny Carpenter, Crime Prevention Officer

Last year, in response to concerns raised about mobility scooters in Great Yarmouth town centre, the North Yarmouth Safer Neighbourhood Team piloted a practical safety awareness course to help increase user confidence and safety. 

The ‘one-stop’ event was devised in partnership with Norfolk County Council Road Safety, the Red Cross, Dial, Help the Aged and local mobility scooter outlets. 

Crime Prevention Officer Penny Carpenter organised the trial events in Great Yarmouth, she says:

“Mobility scooters are being used more and more and while people’s ability to be mobile is very important, the safety of mobility scooter users and other pedestrians is equally important.

“These events aim to enhance the users’ ability to use their scooter in a safe and appropriate manner and address worries that the driving habits of some mobility scooter users are putting themselves or others at risk.”

The Department for Transport consultation

The Department for Transport (DfT) is currently consulting a range of organisations on the issue of mobility scooters and exploring whether existing regulations need to be changed. 

Those giving evidence to the Transport Committee have recommended that the DfT should look closely at Norfolk Constabulary’s Great Yarmouth scheme, to identify whether there is merit in using our model for wider application.

Staying safe and secure on board is essential to get the most out of your mobility scooter but do the driving habits of some mobility scooter users put themselves or others at risk?

 

Tell us what you think

Do you think that as the number of mobility scooters increases, now is the time to change the use and regulations around mobility scooters? Should all users be made to attend some form of safety awareness course before they take to the roads and pavements? Would you attend a training course? Tell us what you think.

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