What is it?
The world`s largest outdoor mobility event, it is the motor show for disabled people.  The Mobility Roadshow aims to give anyone with a mobility problem  -  drivers, passengers, adults or children  -   the chance to see what is available to help solve that problem and most importantly to try out and evaluate the options in a ‘no pressure` environment.

When is the next show?
Thursday 7th, Friday 8th & Saturday 9th July 2005. Open Thursday & Friday 10am- 5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm.

Where does it take place?
The famous Donington Park Race Circuit, Castle Donington, near Derby.  Free on-site parking on tarmac is available, and courtesy accessible buses will be running from Derby station to the show site.  All on-site facilities are fully accessible.

Who organises it?
Originally set up by the Department of Transport in 1983, the Mobility Roadshow is now organised by Mobility Choice, a registered charity with grant-aid support from the Department for Transport.

How much does it cost to get in?
Admission is free.  There is no charge for any of the facilities on site, with the exception of food and drink (please note that the Mobility Roadshow is strictly an alcohol-free event).

Is it just for disabled and older people?
No.  As well as carers and families of disabled people, the Roadshow can help a surprising number of people.  For example, if you are very tall or rather below average height, mobility devices could make driving far more comfortable.   

Who exhibits at the Roadshow?
Around 200 organisations, including many of the major car companies, plus vehicle adaptation and conversion specialists, mobility aids manufacturers, scooter and wheelchair manufacturers, information and advice services, charities, mobility insurance specialists and holiday companies.

What sort of products will I see?
Latest cars and converted vehicles fitted with adaptations; lightweight, sports, power and manual wheelchairs; hand controls; hoists; car seats; commercial vehicles; battery chargers; trikes and scooters; walkers; rotating car seats; specialist wheels and tyres; suspension systems; ramps; seat clamps; wheelchair restraints; floor tracking; lifts; independent living aids and numerous gizmos and gadgets to make life easier for anyone with a mobility problem.

Can I have a go on things?
Yes, this is a ‘hands-on` event.  There are opportunities to test drive adapted vehicles, scooters and wheelchairs and to try products out before you even think about buying, so you can compare all the available options.  As well as test driving vehicles you can try out a range of other driving experiences, such as 4 x 4, quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles.

You mean I get to test drive vehicles on the Donington Park circuit?
Yes, the major motor manufacturers will have a huge range of adapted vehicles available to try out on the track  – make sure you bring your driving licence with you.

Is it just for Motability customers?
No.  The Roadshow is for anyone who has a mobility problem, whether you have a vehicle through the Motability scheme or you own a vehicle privately.

What about children and young people with disabilities?
Thursday 7th July 2005 is National Young Disabled Person`s Day.  In celebration of this, and in response to visitor feedback, the 2005 Roadshow will focus on equipment and services for children and young people with disabilities – from the nursery to learning to drive, at home and on the move.

Can I bring the kids?
Yes, it`s a fun day out for all the family.  Entertainment is provided by jugglers, clowns, magicians, face painters and balloon sculptors and there is a fully staffed crèche on site.

Can I hire a wheelchair or scooter?
Yes.  Wheelchairs and scooters can be pre-booked, and some will be available on the day.  This service is free, but there will be a refundable deposit required on all loans.

Will I really get impartial advice?
Yes.  The Roadshow is all about choice and opportunity.  A large number of charitable organisations and information services will be offering impartial advice on a range of mobility issues.

Did you know?

There are around 9.8 million disabled people in the UK, that`s over 15% of the population.

There are 2.3 million blue badge holders in the UK, indicating that they have a significant mobility problem.

10% of the UK car market comprises mobility vehicles.

Over 5.5 million disabled people are of working age, which represents 16% of the working population. However only 50% of disabled people of working age are in employment compared to 87% of non-disabled people of working age.

By the year 2010, 40% of the UK population will be over 45 - the age at which the incidence of disability begins to increase significantly.

The estimated annual purchasing power of people with disabilities is £40-£50 billion

Over half the population over 75 has some kind of disability – 70% have difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

85% of disabled people in the UK were not born disabled, but became so in later life through accident or illness.

66% of disabled people are older people.  In the next 50 years the number of over 60s will double and the number of over 80s will treble

The Mobility Roadshow – it`ll change the way you get around