Community-run mobility service launches in town

Nicky Callow (middle) was visited to Wheeleasy Mobility by councillor David Naghi (left) and mayor Martin Round (right)

A new community-run mobility service has launched in a town in Kent.

Wheeleasy Mobility, which offers short-term wheelchair loans and other mobility aids, has opened in Hermitage Court in Maidstone.

The organisation, which also refurbishes equipment, is run entirely by volunteers and has received the space from property developers The Gallagher Group.

David Naghi, Maidstone Borough Council's cabinet member for community cohesion and safety, said: "We all recognise the value of what Wheeleasy is doing. It's practical, it's community-led, and it's already making a real difference."

Nicky Callow, who helped establish Wheeleasy Mobility, added: "People come in needing a wheelchair, but often, that's not quite what they need.

"Maybe the footplates aren't right, or the chair's too heavy. You only find that out by seeing them in person, by trying things out together.

"That local, human touch, and that's what we were determined to maintain."

Wheeleasy Mobility is also encouraging donations of wheelchairs, walkers and toileting aids.