What is it?
The world’s largest event of its kind, it is the annual national motor show for disabled people, plus a showcase of a vast variety of products and services to aid an independent lifestyle. 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.

When and where is the next show?
There are two shows in 2008:
Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh (next to the airport) Friday 25th April (10am to 5pm) and Saturday 26th April (10am to 4pm)
Stoneleigh Park near Coventry Thursday 12th, Friday 13th & Saturday 14th June Open Thursday & Friday 10am- 5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm.

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.

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; 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; 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 wheelchairs and scooters on a dedicated Mobility Test Track, and try out off-road vehicles too. There will also be a skid car (passenger ride only), a 4x4 experience and go-karts as well as remote-controlled cars for visitors to enjoy. New for 2008 – there will be a rock-climbing wall with experienced helpers to get you to the top!

You mean I actually get to test drive vehicles?
Yes - the major motor manufacturers will have a range of 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 a vehicle privately.

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.

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.

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 around10% 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.