Mobility scooters available for remote hire at Jersey's Liberation Station
People with disabilities can now book and pay for a mobility scooter using their mobile phone before collecting it through a new automated hire system at Liberation Station in St Helier.
The trial, introduced by Shopmobility Jersey, allows registered users to reserve a scooter online and unlock it using a secure access code.
Previously, customers had to collect scooters from the charity's base on Sand Street. If the scheme proves successful, it could be rolled out to other locations across the Island.
Edward Trevor MBE, founder and chairman of Shopmobility Jersey, said he believed the initiative was the first of its kind in the British Isles.
He said extensive testing had been carried out to ensure the scooters could be remotely immobilised and safely controlled.
Trevor hopes the new service will give people greater independence, particularly those who find travelling into St Helier challenging because of limited parking or mobility barriers.
Technology aims to improve accessibility
The adapted scooters use smart technology to manage bookings, track usage and help ensure users' safety, while allowing customers to access the service independently, according to Shopmobility Jersey.
Anyone wishing to use the scheme must first register with the charity and complete a short training session.
Once approved, users can book a scooter and collect it from Liberation Station from 06:00 BST. Scooters must be returned to the station before 21:00 BST.
The initiative forms part of wider efforts to improve accessibility across Jersey.
Kevin Hart, director of LibertyBus, said customers had previously found the walk between the bus station and Shopmobility's collection point difficult.
Making scooters available directly at Liberation Station would improve access for people with disabilities, he said.
Hart added that the scheme could also help reduce traffic by encouraging more people to travel by bus rather than relying on cars.
Trial to be reviewed next year
Dario Gentili, the Government of Jersey's project manager for disability and inclusion, said the initiative demonstrated what could be achieved through collaboration between community organisations, technology providers and public services.
The trial is due to be reviewed in the new year to assess its effectiveness and consider possible next steps.
The project is being delivered in partnership with LibertyBus, Channel Islands-based technology company IoT CI and Electric Mobility.
If successful, the scheme could offer more Islanders with mobility difficulties a convenient way to access transport links, shops and other facilities in St Helier.
