By David Fismister, Grants and Funding Manager at Shopmobility High Wycombe
I'm delighted to share the success of The Wheelchair Project, made possible by generous funding from Red Kite’s Springboard grant. This initiative set out to refresh and expand our fleet of mobility equipment, ensuring that people with mobility challenges in our community can move freely, confidently, and independently.
What we achieved
With the grant, we:
- Purchased four new types of manual wheelchairs tailored to different user needs
- Added two brand-new electric scooters to our powered mobility fleet
- Covered servicing and maintenance costs to keep equipment safe, reliable, and long-lasting.
With support from Red Kite’s Springboard fund the Wheelchair Project has helped over 350 individual hires — benefiting not only the users themselves, but an estimated 700+ family members and carers who have seen their loved ones regain freedom of movement. The equipment has also generated £1,705 in hire income, directly supporting our charity’s sustainability.
Making a real difference
Our members tell us the project has:
- Boosted independence — enabling everyday activities like shopping, attending appointments, and socialising
- Improved quality of life — helping people reconnect with their community
- Lifted mental wellbeing — restoring confidence, dignity, and self-esteem
- Promoted inclusivity — breaking down barriers to community participation.
“It’s so much easier to operate… giving me the freedom to move around town comfortably and confidently. I feel more independent and capable again.” – Charles R
“It’s made it so much easier for us to visit the town centre and socialise more freely… we couldn’t be happier.” – Ian C
Stories of change
Bev’s story:
As mobility became more difficult, Bev felt increasingly cut off from the world. A new electric scooter “didn’t just get me back to the shops, it gave me back my life.” Now she enjoys running errands, attending appointments, and feeling part of her community again.
Rob’s story:
Living with a long-term leg disability, Rob found day-to-day life exhausting. The larger framed electric scooter has given him the freedom to shop, meet friends, and move confidently without relying on others. “You’ve given me a renewed sense of dignity and joy.”
Our thanks
We’re incredibly grateful to Red Kite Community Housing and their Springboard fund for making The Wheelchair Project possible. Together, we’ve delivered more than mobility equipment — we’ve delivered freedom, dignity, and connection.
- What could a grant from our Springboard fund make possible for your community? Find out how to apply
- Do you want to have a say in which projects receive Springboard funding? Find out how to get involved
