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Bracknell Shopmobility goes from strength to strength

27/10/06

Bracknell Shopmobility, the service that helps people with disabilities, whether temporary or permanent, get around the town centre by providing scooters, manual and powered wheelchairs, is pleased to announce its new Chairman and Manager, as more generous donations are made from local businesses in support of the service.

Jacqui Ryder has accepted the position of Chair of Bracknell Shopmobility, Becky Pearce has been appointed the new Manager and Susan Lewis as Assistant. The Shopmobility team, which also includes six volunteers, provide an efficient, safe, fully insured service, following health and safety guidelines from the National Federation of Shopmobility.

The scheme, which allows disabled people access to the town centre facilities without having to rely upon other people or their own resources, relies on the support of Lottery funding and the sponsorship and donations from individuals and businesses. This month, Shopmobility received 5 scooters from Bracknell Regeneration Partnership, Scootermart, Hewerdine and the Freemasons of Berkshire and brand new computer equipment for the store from HPC IT Solutions Ltd.

Leigh Hostein of HPC IT Solutions Ltd comments: “We are proud to be able to support Shopmobility, which provides an essential service for Bracknell shoppers, and we hope the new computer equipment allows Shopmobility to grow its membership further.”

Newly appointed Shopmobility Manager, Becky Pearce comments: “It is an honour to be offered this role at Shopmobility, and I hope to do my team and members proud. Shopmobility is always extremely grateful to all its hardworking volunteers and sponsors, who make our success possible. In particular I would like to thank the businesses whose generous donations allow us to now offer a total of 11 scooters to our 174 members.

“At Shopmobility we aim to offer our users and members the highest quality service, access and support. At BRP’s Bracknell Customer Service Excellence awards in June, we were delighted to receive a Commendation for our commitment to service excellence. We have also recently completed a User Satisfaction Survey, which concluded that 100% of our users are happy with the service we provide – a figure we hope to maintain as we introduce improvements and more scooters.”

Jacqui Ryder comments: “I am delighted to be part of this dedicated and committed team, and look forward to growing the service further. Shopmobility’s success is due entirely to the help of the generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers who maintain high standards of service and support. We are always keen to welcome new volunteers and members, and as a friendly and open service we look forward to hearing from any interested parties and individuals who want to learn more about us.”

Following the success of the Christmas shopping event last year, Shopmobility is pleased to announce that this year’s event will take place on November 26, with even more special shopping offers and festive activities in the town centre.