The Mobility Roadshow Scotland

Presenting the finest in mobility innovation for over 25 years, the Mobility Roadshow is the original hands-on mobility event, showcasing the best possible products and services for an independent lifestyle. Whether you want to test drive, have a go at sport, driving experiences, rock climbing or just find out what’s new in the mobility market – it’s all here!

What is it?
The most comprehensive event of its kind, the Mobility Roadshow was established in 1983 to showcase a wide variety of products and services to aid an independent lifestyle, with the accent firmly on hands-on experience. The Mobility Roadshow aims to give anyone with a mobility problem - drivers, passengers, adults or children - the chance to assess what is available to help solve that problem and most importantly to try out and evaluate the options in a ‘no pressure’ environment.

Whether you have a disability that affects your mobility, or you’re an older person who is finding mobility that little bit more restricted than it used to be, the Mobility Roadshow is your one-stop shop for independence and freedom. It offers, quite simply, the best possible showcase of mobility products and services anywhere in the UK. Since 2004 there has been a Mobility Roadshow Scotland event at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, held every other year.

When and where is the next show in Scotland?
The Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston (adjacent to Edinburgh Airport). Friday 17th & Saturday 18th September. Open from 10.00 am each day.

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, parking and showguide are free. You can register for FREE tickets - click on 'register now' on the left-hand menu.

Is it just for disabled people?
Not at all - there are all kinds of devices that could help people of any age who may be experiencing mobility problems through something like arthritis or stiffening joints – swivel seats make getting in and out of a car much easier, while lightweight portable scooters that fit easily in the boot of a car can be a real help for shopping or leisure activities for the less mobile.

Who exhibits at the Roadshow?
All kinds of companies and organisations, including many of the major car manufacturers, plus vehicle adaptation and conversion specialists, mobility aids manufacturers, scooter and wheelchair manufacturers, information and advice services, charities, sport, leisure and holiday companies; plus a range of equipment and services for an independent lifestyle.

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; wheelchair restraints; 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 the original ‘hands-on’ mobility event. There are opportunities to test drive adapted vehicles, scooters and wheelchairs and to try out products before you even think about buying, so you can compare all the available options. As well as test driving vehicles, you can try out wheelchairs and scooters on a dedicated Mobility Test Track, plus an interactive Sports Arena. And there will be the return of the popular accessible rock-climbing wall with experienced helpers to get you to the top!

You mean I actually get to test drive vehicles?
Yes – several of the major motor manufacturers and conversion specialists will have  adapted vehicles available to try out – make sure you bring your driving licence with you. You can register to test drive in advance, either through the website or by post.

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 one privately.

Can I bring the kids?
Yes, it`s a fun day out for all the family (please note - no creche facility)

What about sport?
The Roadshow’s interactive Sports Arena offers you a chance to really get involved in a range of sports such as basketball, rugby, tennis, and find out about what’s available in your area.

Can I hire a wheelchair or scooter?
Yes. Wheelchairs and scooters can be pre-booked (subject to availability), and some will be available on the day.

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 in the Information Village.

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.

· * Mobility vehicles represent around 20% of the UK car market.

· * 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.