Staying Safe on Mobility Scooters and Power Wheelchairs in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
Mobility scooters and power wheelchairs can be life changing. They support independence, help people stay connected to their communities, and make everyday activities more accessible.
But like any form of transport, they come with responsibilities, both for your own safety and for others around you. Recent feedback from local people has highlighted concerns about safety on pavements, particularly around speed, uneven surfaces, and a lack of awareness about training and insurance.
This short guide brings together practical advice, local support, and where to go for help if you use, or are thinking about using, a mobility scooter or power wheelchair in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
Why Safety Matters
Most journeys on mobility scooters and power wheelchairs are safe and uneventful. However, issues can arise, especially on uneven pavements, dropped kerbs, or busy shared spaces.
Scooters can tip if surfaces are poor or if kerbs are taken at the wrong angle. Higher-speed models, particularly those capable of road use, can also pose risks if not used appropriately on pavements.
It’s not about limiting independence, it’s about making sure you feel confident, safe, and in control wherever you go.
Learning to Use Your Scooter or Wheelchair Safely
Not everyone is offered training when they first get a mobility scooter or power wheelchair, but it can make a big difference, especially if you’re new to using one.
In Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, you can explore:
- Local mobility retailers – Many offer informal guidance or handover training when you purchase a scooter or wheelchair.
- Cambridgeshire County Council road safety initiatives – From time to time, councils and partners run awareness sessions or safety campaigns.
- Community and disability organisations – Groups such as local disability forums or community hubs may offer advice, peer support, or signposting to training opportunities.
Training can cover things like:
- Navigating pavements and kerbs safely
- Understanding speed settings
- Manoeuvring in busy or tight spaces
- Battery safety and maintenance
If you’re unsure where to start speaking to your mobility equipment provider is a good first step.
Understanding Insurance
Insurance for mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs is not always a legal requirement, but it is strongly recommended.
Accidents can and do happen. Whether that’s damage to your equipment, injury to yourself, or an incident involving someone else. Insurance can help cover costs and give you peace of mind.
Typical policies may include:
- Public liability insurance (in case someone is injured or property is damaged)
- Theft and damage cover
- Breakdown assistance
You can usually arrange insurance through:
- Mobility equipment retailers
- Specialist insurers
- Some membership organisations and charities
It’s worth checking what’s included and whether it suits how and where you use your scooter or wheelchair.
Local Support and Guidance
There are several organisations and resources that can help you stay safe and informed:
- Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council
Offer general guidance on road safety, pavement use, and accessibility. They may also share updates on local initiatives or changes to infrastructure. - Local NHS services (including Occupational Therapy teams)
If your scooter or wheelchair has been provided through the NHS, your clinical team may be able to offer advice on safe use or refer you for additional support. - Mobility centres and retailers
Often the most practical source of hands-on advice, including demonstrations, maintenance tips, and safety guidance. - Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
We can help you find the right information and share feedback about your experiences to improve local services.
Where to Buy or Hire Mobility Aids in Cambridgeshire
There are a range of local options if you’re looking to buy or hire mobility equipment:
- Anglia Healthcare and Mobility (Huntingdon) – Offers a wide range of mobility products and support.
- British Red Cross – Provides short-term wheelchair hire.
- Cambridge Mobility (Sawston) – Sells a variety of mobility solutions.
- CB Mobility Support (Shelford Rugby Club) – Equipment available for hire and purchase (open Mondays and Fridays, 10am–3pm).
- Fen Mobility Centre (near Ely/Witchford) – A long-established centre led by an NHS Occupational Therapist.
- Manage At Home – Mobility Aids – Offers mobility support services across the county.
- Shopmobility Cambridge (Grand Arcade, Cambridge) – Provides mobility equipment hire for use around the city.
Where to Buy or Hire Mobility Aids in Peterborough
There are several local services in Peterborough offering mobility equipment for hire or purchase:
- Shopmobility (Queensgate Shopping Centre) – Provides mobility scooters and wheelchairs for short-term hire in the city centre. Equipment is free to use with a small annual membership fee, and basic training is provided for new users.
- CareCo Peterborough – A large showroom offering mobility scooters, wheelchairs, riser recliners and daily living aids, with in-store demonstrations available.
- Eden Mobility Peterborough – Located in Queensgate, offering a wide range of mobility aids including scooters, powerchairs and stairlift demonstrations.
- The Mobility Aids Centre Ltd – An independent, long-established retailer in Stanground providing scooters, wheelchairs and home mobility equipment.
- Mobility Your Way Peterborough – Offers a range of mobility products with showroom support and advice.
- Bentley Nursing Supplies – Provides mobility aids and nursing equipment for home use.
- Disability Peterborough – A local charity offering advice, support services and access to Shopmobility, as well as wider disability support.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Using a mobility scooter or power wheelchair safely often comes down to small, everyday decisions, slowing down on busy pavements, taking extra care on uneven ground, and making sure your equipment is well maintained.
It’s also about confidence. Knowing how your scooter handles, understanding your surroundings, and feeling comfortable asking for support when you need it can all make a big difference.
Share Your Experience
Do you live in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough and use a mobility scooter or power wheelchair?
We’d like to hear from you! Whether you’ve had a positive experience, faced challenges, or have suggestions for improving NHS or Social Care as a mobility aid user we value your feedback.
Your shared experiences help Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough work with services and decision-makers to make changes that benefit everyone.
Share your experience with us today here.
