Overcoming Bias against Disability in the UK
December 7, 2023
Introduction
Welcome to Durham City Shopmobility, where we believe that everyone deserves the freedom to explore and experience our beautiful city without limitations. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the history of Durham City Shopmobility, highlighting our commitment to enhancing mobility and independence for all.
Our Humble Beginnings
Founded in 1998, Durham City Shopmobility emerged as a result of a collaborative effort between local businesses, disability organizations, and the Durham City Council. The aim was simple yet powerful – to provide a means of transport for individuals with mobility challenges, enabling them to access the city center and enjoy all it has to offer.
Our service initially started with just a handful of mobility scooters and wheelchairs, but our impact was immediate. People who were previously confined to their homes due to limited mobility could now venture out, socialize, and participate in activities that were previously inaccessible to them.
Expanding Our Reach
As word spread about the positive impact we were making, the demand for our services grew rapidly. With the support of our dedicated volunteers and generous donations from the community, we were able to expand our fleet of mobility equipment and extend our services to a wider range of individuals.
In 2003, we moved to our current location in the heart of Durham City, making it even more convenient for people to access our services. Our central location ensures that anyone who needs our assistance can easily find us and benefit from our mobility solutions.
Embracing Technological Advancements
As technology advanced, we recognized the opportunity to leverage it to further enhance our services. In recent years, we have introduced state-of-the-art electric mobility scooters and power wheelchairs that offer increased comfort, maneuverability, and battery life.
Additionally, we developed a user-friendly online booking system, allowing individuals to reserve their mobility equipment in advance, ensuring availability and reducing wait times. This technological advancement has made it even more convenient for our customers to plan their visits to Durham City.
Community Partnerships
Throughout our journey, we have forged strong partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and the Durham City Council. These collaborations have been instrumental in expanding our reach and ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access all areas of the city.
Furthermore, we actively engage with disability groups and organizations to raise awareness about our services and to advocate for improved accessibility throughout Durham City. Together, we strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on our history, we are proud of the positive impact we have made in the lives of countless individuals. However, we recognize that our work is far from over. We remain committed to continuously improving our services, embracing new technologies, and advocating for accessibility and inclusivity.
Our vision for the future is a Durham City that is fully accessible and inclusive for all. We will continue to listen to the needs of our community and adapt our services accordingly, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of exploring our historic city without limitations.
Conclusion
Durham City Shopmobility has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1998. Through our commitment to enhancing mobility and independence, we have empowered individuals with mobility challenges to live life to the fullest and explore the wonders of Durham City.
As we look ahead, we are excited about the possibilities that the future holds. With the support of our dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and collaborative partnerships, we are confident that we can continue to make a positive impact and create a more accessible and inclusive community for all.
