Mobility in Motion and Spinal Injuries Association Join Forces to Enhance Accessible Travel
Mobility in Motion has partnered with the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) to promote greater independence for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). This collaboration aims to combine expert knowledge and lived experience to raise awareness of practical mobility solutions that make travel more accessible.
The Need for Accessible Travel
It is estimated that over 105,000 people in the UK live with spinal cord injury. Research conducted by the SIA highlights the significant challenges they face when travelling. Their Travel with Confidence study, involving 1,508 individuals with SCI, found that 75.37% had encountered difficulties during travel.
Nearly half of those surveyed (48.45%) reported that their mobility equipment limited their ability to participate in activities they wished to pursue. The association’s broader What Matters survey also identified access to transport as a major concern. Around 35% of respondents cited access to personal transport and an appropriate wheelchair as a key issue, while between 30% and 40% faced notable barriers using public transport and finding accessible parking.
Mobility in Motion’s collaboration with the SIA is designed to highlight these practical mobility solutions and deepen their understanding of the real challenges within the spinal cord injury community.
Bringing Experience and Expertise Together
Earlier this year, Gary Dawson, Support Network Manager at the SIA, visited Mobility in Motion’s headquarters to explore vehicle adaptations and share insights from individuals with SCI. This visit included a photoshoot that will feature in upcoming awareness campaigns.
Bruce Lauder, Head of Commercial at Mobility in Motion, emphasised the importance of this relationship: “For people living with spinal cord injury, being able to travel independently can make a significant difference to everyday life. Our partnership with the SIA is about listening to the experiences of the SCI community, understanding the barriers they face and connecting them with mobility solutions that truly meet their needs.”
He added, “Our charity partnerships go beyond awareness-raising. They help us listen, learn and improve our services. Working with SIA gives us unique insight into the lived experiences of those with spinal cord injuries and the role adapted vehicles play in supporting independence.”
Making Everyday Travel More Accessible
The SIA’s 2024 Travel with Confidence project underscored the vital role independent travel plays in maintaining social connections, attending work, school runs, holidays and everyday activities for people with SCI.
The project provided valuable information on various transport options, including cars, mobility equipment and wheelchairs. Through its collaboration with the SIA, Mobility in Motion will be featured on SIA Lifestyle, the association’s online shop offering products selected to support independence and daily living.
SIA members will gain access to Mobility in Motion’s products, alongside an exclusive member offer. A donation will also be made to the SIA with every purchase, helping to support the charity’s vital services.
Gary Dawson remarked, “Travel is essential for living independently after spinal cord injury, yet many still face barriers. Access to the right information, equipment and support can boost confidence and help individuals make travel choices that suit them. Partnering with Mobility in Motion allows us to showcase practical solutions and expand awareness throughout our community.”
Looking Ahead
Established to improve confidence and knowledge in independent travel, the Travel with Confidence initiative will continue with joint efforts from the SIA and Mobility in Motion. Additional resources and collaborative projects will be shared during the coming year as part of Mobility in Motion’s growing charity engagement programme.
About the Author
This article was written by Chiara Torr-Norris, digital marketing executive at Mobility in Motion. Chiara draws on her personal experience supporting family members with learning difficulties, inspiring her commitment to empowerment and inclusivity within the mobility sector.
Find Out More
For further details about Mobility in Motion and their partnership with the Spinal Injuries Association, contact c.torr@abcmobility.com.
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