Tag Archive: disabled access

  1. UK pilot project boosts disabled people’s confidence in using shared mobility

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    Sources: Smart Cities World, Cities Today

    A pilot programme in the UK has demonstrated the success of outreach, targeted training and practical support in introducing people with disabilities to the use and benefits of shared e-scooters and e-bikes. The project, led by shared transport organisation CoMoUK and delivered by charity Cycling UK, saw over 50% of participants going on to ride independently within a month of the project’s completion.

    The programme consisted of a series of in-person training sessions in Salford, Greater Manchester, working with 41 disabled participants, and addressing some of their common concerns about using shared mobility options. Sessions included off-road practice in using vehicles, supported on-street riding, and guidance on using scheme apps, and were designed to boost confidence and familiarity with their locally available shared e-bike and e-scooter services.

    Increased confidence

    Before the pilot, many participants had not used shared mobility services, with concerns about safety and uncertainty on using apps to the fore. After the sessions, 71% of participants said they were likely to use e-bikes independently, and 43% likely to use e-scooters. Feedback on the nature of the sessions was also positive, with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a safe space being crucial in building confidence.

    Addressing barriers to access

    A report following the pilot highlighted some of the obstacles which continue to exist for many disabled people in accessing, and enjoying the benefits of, shared mobility – primarily the need for users to have a provisional or full driving licence.

    Richard Dilks, chief executive of CoMoUK, said, “This pilot project has provided crucial evidence that disabled people are keen to use shared e-scooters and e-bikes once they are provided with the right support and training. It is very encouraging that over half of participants felt confident enough to ride independently shortly after their training sessions, overcoming any initial misgivings.

    “However, there is much work still to be done at both a national and local level if we are to make shared micromobility truly accessible to all. For example, the current requirement for a driving licence to access shared e-scooters acts as a barrier that disproportionately excludes disabled people. To ensure nobody is left behind, the UK Government must remove this requirement, while operators should continue developing inclusive marketing and accessible apps.”

    Rohan Kakad, transport solutions manager at the Motability Foundation, which funded the pilot project, also spoke about ways to scale up, and address barriers. “This pilot shows that, with the right training and support, shared micromobility services can help more disabled people make everyday journeys. It also highlights barriers that still need to be addressed – from accessible training and safe infrastructure to the lack of a clear regulatory framework to support inclusive use. That’s why we’re continuing our research and leading work to inform the future of micromobility regulation in the UK.”

    James Scott, director of behaviour change and development at Cycling UK, said, “When we offer people support to build skills in a safe, practical setting, we also provide greater freedom to travel for everyday journeys. With practical training, clear information, and a focus on real user experience, shared e-bikes and e-scooters can become a genuinely inclusive part of our transport system, supporting independence rather than excluding it.”

  2. A strategy for improving disabled people’s access to shared micromobility

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    Source: CoMoUK

    UK shared mobility charity, CoMoUK, has published an extensive report on strategies for boosting access to shared mobility for disabled people, in collaboration with RiDC (Research Institute of Disabled Consumers), and commissioned by the Motability Foundation.

    CoMoUK recognises that the scope of shared micromobility schemes has expanded over recent years with greater inclusion of e-scooters and e-bikes. Although this has opened up the various benefits of shared modes to more people, a significant 7% of users have long-term health conditions which affect their daily activity, and access to shared modes is not always feasible. CoMoUK wants to see the broadening of inclusion and access to shared mobility.

    The CoMoUK report, Raising the bar – Boosting the accessibility of shared micromobility, is written primarily for shared micromobility operators, policymakers and disability associations. It found that many more disabled people than the 7% mentioned above would like to access shared micromobility services – 53% of respondents felt these services could improve the lives of disabled people – but that there are several barriers preventing this. The report has identified three core areas to improve:

    Awareness and education: This will empower disabled people with the knowledge and confidence to understand what shared micromobility services are, and how to access these services.

    Accessible vehicle design: The development of vehicles that safely meet the needs of disabled users and pedestrians.

    Accessible digital platforms: Booking apps and service platforms should be user-friendly and inclusive.

    The full report can be read and downloaded here.