At Ross Care, we are privileged to see first-hand the impact the wheelchair can have on improving lives. As we celebrate International Wheelchair Day on March 1st, we're pleased to share a series of short reflections from our staff, Service Users & partners that highlight the positive impact of wheelchairs on individuals' lives.

What is International Wheelchair Day about?

International Wheelchair Day was launched on 1st March 2008 by, Steve Wilkinson with three primary objectives.

1. To enable wheelchair users to celebrate the positive impact a wheelchair has on their lives.
2. To celebrate the great work of the many millions of people who provide wheelchairs, who provide support and care for wheelchair users and who make the world a better and more accessible place for people with mobility challenges.
3. To acknowledge and react constructively to the fact that there are many tens of millions of people in the world who need a wheelchair but are unable to acquire one. 

In celebration of International Wheelchair Day, we've put together a short video featuring seven different experiences. We asked participants to record their response to the question, ‘How has your wheelchair had a positive impact on your life or those you work with?’. Recorded in Norwich, East Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and Sheffield, these stories spotlight the diverse ways in which wheelchairs have helped support empowerment and freedom.

In the video, you'll meet Maddison, a bright young service user, and her mother, who share how Maddison's powerchair has not only boosted her confidence but also opened doors to new opportunities, including becoming the first disabled prefect at her school. Alex Gourney, one of our dedicated staff members and a wheelchair user for 25 years, shares how his wheelchair brings him freedom, comfort and safety, enabling him to lead an active social life and engage with his community.

Clive Bassant, the Community Liaison and Engagement Officer for Kent and Medway Wheelchair Service, describes himself as being able to lead ‘a truly independent life’ thanks to his powered wheelchair. His powerful words, ‘I am not wheelchair-bound, I am wheelchair-enabled, and I am wheelchair-liberated’ resonate strongly with the theme of International Wheelchair Day.

Andrew from East Sussex showcases his enjoyment of wheelchair tennis, while Peter, a service user of Kent and Medway Wheelchair Service, shares his journeys around the world made possible by his powered wheelchair. Simon, a family member from Hampshire & Isle of Wight, emphasises the essential role of wheelchairs in facilitating other people’s accessibility needs.

Dave Bramley, representing Wicker Independent Living, underscores the importance of tailored and high-performance wheelchairs, which often surprise customers as to the difference they make. Meanwhile, Tamsin Flint, Commissioning Manager for Kent & Medway Clinical Commissioning Group, highlights the broader societal benefits of improved mobility and accessibility.