Every year in England, 45,000 people are affected by a major or very severe traumatic injury while around 500,000 people experience a less severe trauma. One of the main considerations for rehabilitation and independence is access to suitable mobility equipment or adaptations including wheelchair accessible vehicles. The availability of bespoke conversions from wheelchair accessible vehicle providers means that there are a range of options available which can be tailored for individual needs.
- Every year, 1000s of people are affected by traumatic injury.
- Suitable aids and adaptations are necessary for rehabilitation.
- Bespoke WAV conversions can make a significant contribution to regaining mobility and independence and there are a number of options available.
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are vehicles that have been specifically adapted to enable wheelchair users to travel as a driver or passenger.
Examples of adaptations might include swivel seats, plates or hoists for the safe transfer from wheelchair to driver’s seat, wired or wireless lifts, spring-loaded manual or power operated ramps for entry and exit, hand control adaptations, lowered floors or raised roof heights, or a roof top box for storage.
A bespoke conversion is specifically designed to cater to an individual so a detailed assessment of their needs, informative research, help in choosing and finding the right accessible vehicle, and an in-depth discussion with a trusted wheelchair accessible vehicle provider is key to ensure that the modifications meet their requirements.
The more bespoke and tailored the adaptations, the more the wheelchair accessible vehicle usability will be optimised for the users.
In addition, a reputable wheelchair accessible provider will always ensure that new users of a WAV are suitably guided and trained and are confident in how to use the vehicles adaptations safely as they may require different skills than those used in the users’ previous driving experience.
For example, securing the wheelchair properly inside the vehicle, safe entry and exit using ramps or lifts, and confident use of hand control adaptations.
Although new and used wheelchair accessible vehicles are available to purchase privately, many people choose to use all or part of their mobility allowance in exchange for a wheelchair accessible vehicle through the Motability Scheme.
An advance payment is required for some vehicles if the individual’s mobility allowance does not cover the full cost of the vehicle. They may be eligible for financial help through a grant if they need a particular type of car but cannot afford the advanced payment. A range of grants or access to financial support exists so it’s worth researching to see what other funding options may be available.
A wheelchair accessible vehicle that has been specifically adapted to an individual’s needs after a traumatic injury can provide them with a personal mobility solution and independence. An experienced, official WAV converter will offer in-depth knowledge, customer service, and will put the client’s needs first.