30/05/2021
Navigating the vibrant city of Gloucester should be an experience accessible to everyone, regardless of mobility challenges. Thankfully, Gloucester is home to dedicated services that empower individuals to maintain their independence and explore everything the city has to offer. This comprehensive guide delves into two pivotal providers of mobility solutions in Gloucester: Ableworld and Shopmobility. Whether you're seeking to purchase new equipment, require professional repairs, or need a convenient short-term hire to enjoy the city centre, understanding the distinct offerings of these organisations is key to finding the perfect fit for your needs.
Ableworld Gloucester: Your Partner in Mobility Sales and Service
Ableworld stands as the UK's leading retailer of mobility and stairlift products, and their Gloucester branch upholds this reputation by providing an extensive array of quality products designed for the elderly and disabled. Their commitment goes beyond just sales; they aim to offer genuine support and advice to ensure every customer finds a product that truly meets their individual requirements.
A Vast Product Range for Every Need
With over 800 mobility products available, Ableworld Gloucester boasts an impressive inventory. This vast selection ensures that whether you're looking for a simple walking aid, a sophisticated powerchair, or a life-changing stairlift, you're likely to find a suitable option. Their friendly and knowledgeable store staff are always on hand to guide you through the choices, helping you understand the features and benefits of various models to make an informed decision. For added convenience, many of their products are also available through their online store, with a handy Click and Collect service offered at your local Gloucester branch.
Expert Advice and Trusted Support
One of Ableworld's core strengths lies in its team of experienced care and mobility professionals. These experts are not just salespeople; they are dedicated to providing insightful and empathetic guidance. This means you receive tailored recommendations and support, ensuring that the equipment you choose is not only functional but also enhances your quality of life. As a Which Trusted Trader, Ableworld's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is independently verified, offering you peace of mind when making significant purchases. Their expert advice ensures you make the best choice for your unique situation.
Professional Servicing and Repairs
Maintaining mobility equipment in optimal condition is crucial for safety and reliability. Ableworld Gloucester understands this, which is why they operate a highly skilled engineering department. Their team of fully trained and experienced in-house engineers provides comprehensive servicing and repairs for a wide range of mobility products. This includes:
- Wheelchairs (manual and powered)
- Stairlifts
- Mobility Scooters
- Powerchairs
All services are offered at reasonable rates, ensuring your equipment remains dependable without breaking the bank. This in-house expertise means you can rely on consistent, high-quality maintenance from professionals who truly understand the intricacies of mobility aids. Should you require any information or free, no-obligation advice regarding sales or servicing, a simple phone call to Ableworld Gloucester can provide you with the answers you need.
Shopmobility Gloucester: Enhancing City Accessibility
For those who need temporary assistance to navigate Gloucester's city centre, the Gloucester Quays Designer Outlet Centre, and the Docks, Shopmobility Gloucester offers an invaluable service. This initiative provides battery-powered scooters, wheelchairs, battery chairs, and rollators for hire, significantly boosting city accessibility for individuals with limited mobility.
Equipment for Hire and Booking Advice
Shopmobility Gloucester provides a diverse fleet of equipment to cater to various needs. On any given day, they typically have a maximum of 18 scooters, 10 wheelchairs, 2 battery-operated chairs, and 2 rollators available for hire. They also offer 5 wheelchairs specifically for long-term hire, providing flexibility for extended needs.
To ensure availability, especially during peak times, it is highly advisable to pre-book your chosen vehicle. While they strive to accommodate requests for specific scooter models, substitutions with similar vehicles may occur. Bookings can be made by phone, and if leaving a message on the answerphone, remember to include a contact number for a callback.
Operating Hours and Hire Periods
Shopmobility Gloucester operates on a convenient schedule:
- Monday: 9:30 am – 4:45 pm
- Tuesday: CLOSED
- Wednesday: CLOSED
- Thursday: 9:30 am – 4:45 pm
- Friday: 9:30 am – 4:45 pm
- Saturday: 9:30 am – 4:45 pm
- Sunday: CLOSED
Please note that they are also closed on Bank Holidays. Hired equipment can be used any time between 9:30 am and 4:45 pm on operating days.
The User Experience: Registration and Training
On your first visit to Shopmobility Gloucester, a few simple steps ensure a safe and smooth experience:
- Bring a form of ID that states both your name and address (e.g., driver's licence or utility bill).
- Fill out a registration form, which will be kept on record for identification.
- Receive comprehensive training on how to safely use the equipment you hire.
The comprehensive training is tailored to your pace, ensuring you feel confident and in control before taking the vehicle out. Even if you've used a scooter before, all vehicles can differ, so the staff will demonstrate its specific workings. As a city council service, ensuring user safety is paramount. Nervous users are encouraged to take as much time and as many training sessions as needed. Upon arrival, simply ring the bell outside to alert staff, who will endeavour to serve you as quickly as possible, though patience may be required during busy periods.
Hire Charges and Membership
Shopmobility Gloucester offers various pricing structures, including membership options that provide cost savings for frequent users. Payment can be made using cash or card.
Electric Scooters / Manual Wheelchairs / Rollators:
| Membership/Charge Type | Total Fee |
|---|---|
| Annual Membership | £28.50 |
| Member Daily Charge | £2.70 |
| Non-Member Daily Charge | £8.00 |
Wheelchair Hire (Long-Term Options):
| Hire Period | Total Fee |
|---|---|
| Overnight | £8.50 |
| Weekend (Friday-Monday) | £20.00 |
| Week (7 Days) | £30.00 |
| Monthly (Calendar Month) | £80.00 |
Long Term Portable Scooter Hire:
| Hire Period | Total Fee |
|---|---|
| 3 Days (Minimum Hire) | £30.00 |
| Weekend (Friday-Monday) | £42.00 |
| 7 Days (1 Week) | £65.00 |
| 14 Days (2 Weeks) | £130.00 |
| Additional Days | £5.00 |
Shopmobility Gloucester also operates a VAT exemption scheme for individuals suffering from chronic illnesses. It's advisable to discuss this with a team member when registering or hiring equipment.
Additional Conveniences and Services
Beyond equipment hire, Shopmobility Gloucester offers several other useful services:
- Accessible Toilets: Customers have access to on-site accessible toilet facilities.
- Bric-a-brac Shop: A delightful bric-a-brac shop is located on site, offering a variety of bargains for browsing during your visit.
- Radar Keys: Official keys for The National Radar Key Scheme are available for purchase at £4.95. These keys grant disabled people independent access to over 9,000 locked public toilets across the UK.
- Donations: Shopmobility welcomes donations of mobility equipment, as well as books, clothes, and bric-a-brac, helping to support their valuable services and community efforts.
How to Reach Shopmobility Gloucester
Shopmobility Gloucester is conveniently located at 1 Hampden Way, Gloucester, GL1 1SX. Here’s how to find them:
Arriving by Car
If travelling by car, you can use the postcode GL1 1SX for your satnav to locate Hampden Way carpark. Alternatively, follow directions for Gloucester city centre via the A430. Turn right into Eastgate Street, then left down Hampden Way, and the carpark will be on your right. The carpark offers 7 dedicated disabled parking spaces, and blue badge holders can park anywhere in the carpark for up to 3 hours for free, making it an excellent option for those driving in.
Arriving by Train or Bus
For those arriving by train or bus, Shopmobility Gloucester offers a unique convenience: with prior arrangement (at least 24 hours in advance by calling 01452 302 871), they can deliver equipment directly to the train station or the Transport Hub. This service is incredibly helpful for those who might find the walk challenging or prefer a direct transfer.
If you prefer to walk from the train or bus station (Transport Hub):
- Cross Station Road into the Transport Hub.
- Exit the Transport Hub and use the pedestrian crossing to reach Clarence Street.
- Turn left down Clarence Street and continue to Brunswick Road, passing Boots on your right.
- Shopmobility is located down Jennings Walk, opposite Gloucester Museum.
Should you encounter any difficulty reaching them from the station, don't hesitate to call for details on local taxi services that can assist you in reaching their premises.
Choosing the Right Mobility Solution for You
With both Ableworld and Shopmobility offering distinct yet complementary services, understanding which provider suits your situation best is crucial. Ableworld is your primary destination for purchasing new mobility equipment, including stairlifts, and for comprehensive repair and servicing of your existing aids. They cater to long-term ownership and maintenance needs, ensuring your personal equipment remains in top condition. Their expert advice is invaluable for making significant investment decisions.
Shopmobility, on the other hand, excels in short-term and medium-term rentals. It's the ideal choice for visitors to Gloucester, for those recovering from an injury, or for residents who only need assistance for city outings or specific events. Their focus is on enabling immediate access to the city's amenities without the commitment of purchase. The training provided ensures even first-time users can confidently navigate the urban environment.
Ableworld vs. Shopmobility: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Ableworld Gloucester | Shopmobility Gloucester |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Service | Sales of new mobility products, comprehensive repairs & servicing | Hire of mobility equipment (scooters, wheelchairs, etc.) |
| Ownership | You purchase and own the equipment | Equipment is rented for a specified period |
| Typical Use Case | Long-term personal use, equipment maintenance | Short-term access to city centre, temporary needs, visitors |
| Product Range | Extensive (800+ products, including stairlifts, powerchairs) | Scooters (up to 18 daily), wheelchairs (up to 10 daily, 5 long-term), battery chairs, rollators |
| Training Provided | Advice on product use at point of sale | Mandatory, comprehensive hands-on training for hire equipment, tailored to individual pace |
| Costs | Purchase price, repair fees (variable by product) | Daily, weekly, monthly hire fees; annual membership option for savings |
| Additional Services | Online store, Click & Collect, free no-obligation advice | Accessible toilets, bric-a-brac shop, Radar Keys sales, acceptance of donations, equipment delivery to stations (by arrangement) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I get my mobility scooter repaired at Ableworld Gloucester?
- Yes, Ableworld Gloucester has a skilled engineering department with fully trained in-house engineers who provide servicing and repairs for mobility scooters, wheelchairs, powerchairs, and stairlifts at reasonable rates. They are a Which Trusted Trader, ensuring quality service.
- Do I need to book equipment in advance at Shopmobility Gloucester?
- Yes, it is highly advised to pre-book your vehicle (scooter, wheelchair, etc.) in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods. You can call them on 01452 302 871 to arrange this.
- What ID do I need for my first visit to Shopmobility Gloucester?
- On your first visit, you will need to bring a form of ID that states both your name and address, such as a driver's licence or a utility bill. You will also complete a registration form, which will be held on their records for identification purposes.
- Are there accessible toilet facilities at Shopmobility Gloucester?
- Yes, Shopmobility Gloucester provides accessible toilet facilities on site for the convenience of its customers during their visit.
- Can I get VAT exemption when hiring equipment from Shopmobility Gloucester?
- Yes, Shopmobility Gloucester runs a VAT exemption scheme for individuals suffering from chronic illnesses. You should speak to a member of their team when registering or hiring equipment to see if you qualify for this benefit.
- What is the minimum hire period for a portable scooter from Shopmobility Gloucester?
- The minimum hire period for a portable scooter from Shopmobility Gloucester is 3 days. Specific pricing for longer periods, including weekend and weekly rates, is available.
- What are Radar Keys and where can I buy one?
- Radar Keys are official keys for The National Radar Key Scheme, which provides disabled people with independent access to over 9,000 locked public toilets across the UK. You can purchase these keys from Shopmobility Gloucester on site for £4.95, offering invaluable convenience and independence.
Conclusion
Gloucester is fortunate to have two such dedicated and complementary services in Ableworld and Shopmobility. Together, they form a robust support system for anyone seeking to enhance their independent living and mobility within the city. Whether you're a resident looking for a long-term mobility solution and reliable maintenance, or a visitor needing temporary assistance to explore Gloucester's historical sites and shopping districts, these organisations are ready to help. By understanding their unique offerings, you can confidently access the services that best meet your individual mobility needs, ensuring Gloucester remains an accessible and enjoyable place for all.
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