The Labour government has announced plans to overhaul what it calls "outdated" legislation governing powered mobility devices, which has remained largely unchanged for nearly four decades.
Consultation Launched to Modernise Legislation
The Department for Transport has today launched a 12-week public consultation seeking views on how to update laws around electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Ministers argue that the current rules, which are around 40 years old, fail to reflect significant technological advances and are holding back innovation and user freedom.
Simon Lightwood MP, the Minister for Roads and Buses, stated that these devices are crucial for providing independence. "Powered mobility devices give people independence and freedom and the law should enable their safe use," he said. "This consultation is a chance for users and organisations to help us modernise these outdated rules and ensure they meet today’s needs."
Breaking Down Barriers for Disabled People
The move is part of a wider drive to improve accessibility. Sir Stephen Timms MP, Minister for Social Security and Disability, emphasised the government's commitment. "We are determined to break down barriers to opportunity for disabled people," he said. He urged disabled people to respond to the consultation to ensure their views directly shape the new policy.
Campaign groups have warmly welcomed the announcement. Isabelle Clement, Director of Wheels for Wellbeing, said existing laws "create confusion, restrict market innovation and limit disabled people’s freedom to travel." She highlighted that over 10 million people in the UK have mobility-related impairments who stand to benefit from clearer, modernised rules.
Campaigners Hail "Commitment to Change"
Nick Goldup, CEO of the Wheelchair Alliance CIC, expressed pride that campaigning had secured this government action. He pointed out that outdated terminology and laws have particularly affected users of heavier, modern wheelchairs. "Many individuals using wheelchairs over 150kg have been left feeling anxious and worried about breaking the law," Goldup explained.
The alliance pledged to continue amplifying community voices throughout the consultation to ensure the review creates a fairer and more inclusive framework for all powered mobility device users.
