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Mobility and independence go hand in hand and the right disability ramp can make all the difference. Whether you need to enter your home, navigate a small step, or load your wheelchair or mobility scooter into a vehicle, a well-chosen ramp can improve safety, comfort and accessibility.
At Monarch Mobility, we offer a wide range of ramps for disabled access , from compact threshold ramps for doorways to strong, foldable ramps for vehicles and travel.
Here’s everything you need to know before buying a ramp for disabled access, including ramp types, gradients, materials, and safety features.
Before selecting your new disability ramp, here are some questions to consider about how and where you’ll use it:
Different ramps are designed for different purposes, from wheelchair ramps for homes to mobility scooter ramps for cars, so it’s important to choose the right type for your needs.
Before purchasing a wheelchair ramp or mobility scooter ramp, carefully measure the area where it will be installed.
Consider both the width needed to accommodate your wheelchair or mobility scooter, as well as the length required to achieve the correct gradient for safe use.
Make sure there’s enough clearance at the top and bottom of the ramp, whether it’s for a doorway, threshold, vehicle, or stairs, to ensure smooth, unobstructed access.
Consider who will be positioning and moving the ramp. If you or a carer will need to lift or carry it, a lightweight foldable disabled ramp or portable mobility scooter ramp with built-in carry handles is ideal.
These ramps are easier to manoeuvre, set up, and store, making daily use safer and more convenient. Choosing a ramp with the right balance of portability and strength ensures that it can be moved quickly without compromising safety or stability.
Consider how frequently you’ll need to use your ramp, as this will determine the style and material it is made from.
Storage is an important factor when choosing your ramp, especially if space is limited. A foldable ramp or a portable ramp can be folded away compactly and stored in a cupboard, hallway, or car boot when not in use.
If your ramp will be staying outdoors, choose a durable aluminium ramp designed to withstand all weather conditions.
The material your mobility ramp is made from plays a big role in how easy it is to use, how long it will last, and where it can be placed.
Safety is key when choosing any ramp for disabled access. The right features will give you confidence and stability, whether you’re using your ramp indoors, outdoors, or for vehicle access.
The right combination of size, gradient, and weight ensures your ramp is easy to use, fits your space, and supports your mobility aid reliably.
Getting the right disabled ramp gradient ensures safety and ease of use.
There are lots of ramps available in a range of sizes to suit different doorways, thresholds, and vehicles.
Always make sure the ramp is wide enough for your mobility aid yet narrow enough to fit through doorways or entrances.
Check the dimensions carefully before you order to ensure a safe and comfortable fit.
Weight is one of the most crucial factors to consider before purchasing a ramp, as it impacts both safety and usability. Always look at these two key weight ratings to make sure your ramp meets your needs:
A quality ramp can transform your daily independence, giving you freedom to move safely and confidently.
Whether you need a door ramp for a mobility scooter, a ramp for stairs for a wheelchair, or a folding ramp for the car, Monarch Mobility has the perfect solution.
Ideal for small steps, thresholds, and doorways, threshold ramps make indoor and outdoor transitions smooth and easy.
If you need a larger mobility scooter ramp for a car or set of steps, a folding or portable ramp is a great choice.
Explore our full range of disability ramps today at Monarch Mobility — and find the ideal ramp to make your home, car, or workplace more accessible.
Every year on Remembrance Day, we pause to honour the courage, dedication, and sacrifices made by the men and women of our Armed Forces – past and present.
At Monarch Mobility, this day holds special meaning. It’s a time we reflect not just on what’s been given, but on what we can continue to give in return.
We’re proud to have a close relationship with Help for Heroes, a charity that works tirelessly to support veterans and their families mentally, physically, and financially. Their work is inspiring, and it reminds us daily of the importance of helping those who’ve helped us.
To show our appreciation in a practical way, we’re offering £300 off any Monarch Mobility scooter for veterans, active military personnel, and their immediate families.
We understand that mobility and independence are key to everyday quality of life – whether that’s getting out for a coffee, attending a local remembrance event, or simply spending time with loved ones. This offer is just one small way we can say thank you.
“As a veteran myself, commemorating Remembrance Day and supporting Help for Heroes is something I care deeply about. I’ve seen the challenges that many veterans face after leaving the Forces – especially when it comes to mobility. At Monarch Mobility, we not only believe in remembering and thanking those who have served our country, but also in finding meaningful ways to repay their commitment.”
Martin Sampson, Managing Director, Monarch Mobility
If you or a close family member has served or is currently serving in the military, simply get in touch with our team to receive your £300 discount.
This Remembrance Day, let’s take a moment not only to remember but also to support.
When you’re looking to buy a mobility scooter in the UK, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations that apply. While mobility scooters offer independence and freedom for people with limited mobility, they are still considered vehicles and are therefore subject to certain legal requirements.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mobility scooters and the law — including age restrictions, registration, insurance, road use, and parking rules.
Before you begin, it’s worth noting the difference between class 2 and class 3 mobility scooters, as mobility scooter laws and usage rules vary according to the class of scooter.
In the UK, you can only drive a mobility scooter if you have a physical disability or limited mobility because of an injury or medical condition.
In addition to this, there are specific eyesight requirements for mobility scooter users: If you own a class 2 or 3 mobility scooter, you must be able to read a car’s number plate from 12.3 metres away. If your mobility scooter is ‘not in a class’, you must be able to read a number plate from a distance of 20 metres. You can be prosecuted if you have an accident because of poor eyesight, so it’s important to ensure your vision meets the legal standard.
Mobility scooter age limits vary depending on the class of your scooter:
No, mobility scooter laws don’t require you to take a test to drive a mobility scooter.
However, we recommend taking your scooter somewhere quiet before your first outing to familiarise yourself with the controls and how your scooter handles. Check out our tips for first time mobility scooter users.
No, you don’t need a driving licence to legally operate a mobility scooter in the UK, regardless of the class.
They are exempt from the UK driving licence system because they are classed as invalid carriages under the law.
All mobility scooters are exempt from road tax. However, class 3 scooters must be registered with the DVLA before they can be used on public roads, in accordance with current mobility scooter regulations.
Before taking your class 3 mobility scooter on the road, it is essential that you register it with the DVLA to ensure it complies with UK road safety laws. Find out more about how to register your mobility scooter with the DVLA.
Whilst you don’t legally need to get insurance for a mobility scooter, it is strongly recommended to cover you in the event of an accident, mechanical failure, theft or breakdown. Learn more about the benefits of insuring your mobility scooter.
The mobility scooter speed limit and the law on mobility scooters when it comes to road or pavement use, vary depending on the class.
Read our article Mobility Scooters on the Road: The Rules for more details.
You can legally park your mobility scooter anywhere that it doesn’t cause an obstruction. When you park, avoid blocking pavements, driveways, cycle paths, or dropped kerbs.
Many shops and supermarkets have designated mobility scooter parking bays located close to their entrances.
Note: You cannot use a blue badge when parking on your mobility scooter, as they only apply to cars and other motor vehicles.
Yes, class 3 mobility scooters must be equipped with lights, indicators and a rear view mirror to ensure they are safe and legal on the roads.
Although not legally required, it is recommended that you wear a helmet, hi-vis, and other protective gear when riding a scooter, especially on roads.
Choosing the right scooter means understanding the features you need as well as the mobility scooter laws that apply to different classes.
Whether you need a compact class 2 scooter for pavement use or a more powerful class 3 model for journeys on the road, Monarch has a wide range of mobility scooters to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Contact our expert team for further details or to arrange a free home demo.
The Disabled Parking Blue Badge Scheme offers vital parking concessions for people with severe mobility issues, enabling them to park closer to their destination. This article explores the benefits, Blue Badge eligibility criteria, the application process, and rules for parking.
We’ll also look at how folding mobility scooters can enhance your mobility experience once you’ve parked your vehicle!
The Blue Badge scheme is a national initiative designed to support those with significant mobility challenges. It allows easier access to shops, services, and community facilities by granting parking concessions.
The scheme operates differently in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. This guide focuses on the rules in England. However, Blue Badge parking regulations can differ by council, so it’s best to check your local council website for any specific queries you may have or to check the availability of disabled parking spaces in their car parks
You may be wondering: What benefits do Blue Badge holders get?
Being a Blue Badge holder provides more than just access to convenient parking. Blue Badge holder benefits also include:
However, in private car parks (e.g. NCP and hospitals), Blue Badge holders may still have to pay – always check local signage.
To get the most from your parking access, many Blue Badge users choose to keep a lightweight folding mobility scooter in the boot of their car. These scooters allow you to easily travel short distances after parking – ideal for shopping trips, medical appointments, or days out.
The Blue Badge Eligibility Criteria are based on your mobility, medical conditions, and safety needs.
You automatically qualify for a Blue Badge if you:
You may also qualify if you:
*Visit GOV.UK Blue Badge Guidance for a full and detailed breakdown of the Blue Badge eligibility criteria.
So, how do you apply for a disabled parking permit? It’s simple – and you can apply for a disabled badge online.
A Blue Badge costs £10 in England in Northern Ireland, £20 in Scotland, and is free in Wales. The badge typically lasts for three years, after which you will need to reapply for a new one.
You will need to provide:
Online Blue Badge application can be completed on gov.uk
If you have lost your disabled badge, you can apply for a new one at on the government website.
Knowing the disabled Blue Badge parking rules helps prevent fines and ensures the scheme benefits those who need it most.
Remember: The badge is for your use only and can only be used when you are the driver, a passenger, or if someone is picking you up or dropping you off. You are not allowed to give your badge to someone running errands on your behalf.
Misuse of your Blue Badge can lead to a £1000 fine and possible confiscation.
Discover other UK laws relating to mobility scooters.
So, where can Blue Badge holders park? When you display your valid badge, Blue Badge holders should be able to park for free in the following places:
You are not allowed to park in the following places:
Yes – in most areas, you can park in resident permit bays without needing a resident permit, as long as your valid Blue Badge is displayed.
Blue Badge holders don’t usually need to pay for on-street parking. However, you may need to pay in private or NCP car parks. Always check the signs.
Once you’ve parked, a foldable mobility scooter can help you travel comfortably and independently around your destination.
Lightweight and compact, these scooters are ideal for navigating shops and supermarkets; visiting friends and family; dining out or visiting attractions.
Many foldable scooters can be manually collapsed or folded remotely, making them easy to store in your car boot. Find out more about Monarch Mobility’s folding mobility scooters.
The Disabled Parking Blue Badge Scheme offers significant benefits to those who need it most. Whether you’re applying for the first time or need to renew, understanding your rights, rules, and responsibilities is crucial. When used correctly, your Blue Badge can be a vital lifeline to independence.
If you need advice on finding the perfect mobility scooter to fit into your car, contact the team at Monarch Mobility who will be happy to arrange a free home demo!
Monarch Mobility recently caught up with Katie Toft – Paralympian and nine-time Paracycling World Champion – to hear how she’s getting on with her new Genie Ultralight mobility scooter.
As a busy, active and social person, Katie values her independence. She explained how having her own mobility scooter means she can now get out and about without relying on others for support: “Having the scooter means that I can do things on my own without risking getting too tired or falling over”.
One of the first things Katie noticed about the Genie Ultralight was its bold Union Flag design – the perfect match for her incredible spotting achievements! She also highlighted how comfortable the scooter was – especially the compact handles, which she found easy to hold.
And how did she rate her first ride on the mobility scooter? In her words: “Brilliant”. Katie was particularly impressed that the Genie Ultralight managed to climb the hill outside her home with ease – something other scooters had struggled to do.
The new scooter has made a big difference to Katie’s daily life. As well as enabling her to get out more with her family, it’s made her race days less stressful and complicated – incredibly important when you need to focus on winning more medals!
Plus, thanks to its foldable and lightweight design (just 12kg), she’s finding it easy to fold down and pack into the car – giving her true flexibility wherever she goes.
Katie offered some encouraging words for anyone unsure about using a mobility aid: “If it’s going to help you, then use one. Try not to worry about what other people think,” she said.
Her advice is simple: the right mobility aid can give you the freedom and confidence to enjoy life to the fullest.
At Monarch Mobility, we’re proud to be the UK’s favourite mobility specialist.
Our friendly team is on hand to help you find the perfect mobility scooter to suit your lifestyle! And, if you’re a veteran or active military personnel, you can get £100 off your chosen scooter!
Rise & recline chairs are an ideal choice for anyone living with reduced mobility.
They are designed to provide comfort and support when sitting and to take the strain off muscles and joints when moving to a standing position.
But which are the best riser recliner chairs and how do you choose a riser recliner chair for your needs?
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of recliners, from single to dual motor, and the recliner chair dimensions you need to know to get the perfect fit.
Rise & recline chairs are electrically operated chairs that assist you in moving from a seated to a standing position – and vice versa – via a remote control. They also offer reclining functions that allow you to lie back and raise your legs for improved comfort and circulation.
Whether you’re looking for a chair for everyday relaxation or additional support due to a disability or mobility condition, a riser recliner chair is a practical, supportive, and comfortable option.
The most important step in choosing the best recliner chair for the elderly or anyone with reduced mobility is to understand your personal needs.
At Monarch Mobility, we take the time to discuss your specific requirements to ensure the chair will improve your health, lifestyle and comfort.
Ultimately, rise and recliner chairs should offer comfort and support when relaxing at home (and they’re also great when doing seated workouts!).
The cost of rise recliner chairs varies based on motor type, fabric, features, and size. Set a clear budget and prioritise the functions you need most – whether that’s pressure relief cushioning, extra lumbar support, or enhanced recline angles.
When looking for the best riser recliner chair for your needs, you will need to consider the size, style, and functionality.
Recliner chairs usually have either a single or dual motor, but what’s the difference between single and dual motor riser recliner chairs?
When choosing a riser recliner, consider the reclining position and mechanism:
The backrest plays a very important role in posture and comfort, especially if you are seated for long periods. There are several backrest options:
We all come in different shapes and sizes, so it’s important to check the weight capacity of your rise and recline chair.
How do you measure for a riser recliner chair? Getting the recliner chair measurements right is essential to ensure it fits you and the space in your home comfortably. Key measurements include:
We hope this guide has given you some useful insights into what features to look for in a recliner chair.
At Monarch Mobility, we’ve taken everything above into account to design our Rise & Recline Chair, which includes:
View our Rise N Recline Chair today or speak to our mobility experts.
Popping out for an appointment, going shopping, or meeting friends shouldn’t be dependent on the weather. But if you are a mobility scooter user, it’s natural to worry about getting caught in the rain – and how moisture might affect your scooter..
The good news is that mobility scooters can be used in light rain – you just need to take a few precautions to limit water exposure.
Here are some expert tips for using your scooter safely and confidently in wet weather.
A question many people ask us is: “Is it okay if my scooter gets rained on?” The short answer is yes, but with care. While it’s best to avoid using your scooter in heavy downpours, sometimes you cannot avoid going out when the rain comes down.
Light rain typically won’t damage your scooter if you take steps to protect it – especially the electronics. Keeping your scooter covered and ensuring water doesn’t seep into key areas like the control panel or battery charging port will help maintain its performance.
Protect your mobility scooter from water damage with these simple steps:
If you and your mobility scooter get caught in the rain, follow these steps:
At Monarch Mobility, we believe that a little rain shouldn’t hold you back. That’s why we offer a range of all-weather solutions — from mobility scooter rain covers to our fully road-legal Storm+ mobility scooter with a hard canopy.
Need advice on staying mobile come rain or shine? Speak to one of our friendly team members or request a free home demonstration today.
If you live with a disability, you could be eligible for disabled discounts on travel, entertainment, and other services. From disabled travel passes to free companion tickets and road tax discount for disabled drivers, there are many ways to save – if you know where to look.
With a disabled travel pass, you can enjoy free or reduced fares on travel across the UK. Whether it’s by rail, bus, or plane, there are various options designed to make transport more accessible and affordable, and give you more independence.
The Disabled Persons Railcard offers 1/3 off most rail fares in the UK for you and one companion. At just £20 for one year or £54 for three, it’s a great way to save on regular travel.
As well as discounts on rail travel for you and a companion, you can also get money off restaurants and hotels. What’s more, you can use your railcard at any time of the day!
You can apply for a disabled person’s bus pass across the UK, granting you free or reduced travel costs on local services. On some services a companion can also travel for free. Schemes run in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
If you live in London, you may be eligible for a Freedom Pass, which offers free access to buses, tubes, and TfL Rail. To get a disability freedom pass. you need to live in London and have a statutory disability as listed in the Transport Act 2000.
If you have a disability or reduced mobility, you can request assistance from your airline at no extra cost. This usually includes getting help at check-in, moving through the airport, and boarding and disembarking. You can usually also choose your seat for free!
Discover more about travelling on public transport and planes with a mobility scooter.
Driving can remain a convenient option for many people with disabilities, especially with the help of mobility aids. From easier parking access to road tax discounts for disabled drivers, there are several ways to reduce your travel costs while staying on the move.
The Blue Badge scheme allows access to disabled parking bays and often free or reduced parking. They last up to 3 years and cost £10 in England and Northern Ireland, £20 in Scotland, and are free in Wales. To apply for a Blue Badge, you’ll need to go through your local council. Be ready to provide a digital photo; proof of your identity, address and benefits; and your National Insurance number.
If you have a folding mobility scooter that you can lift into your car, it’s a great way to get about!
If you receive qualifying disability benefits like PIP, you may be eligible for a road tax discount for disabled drivers – either 50% off or total exemption. You’ll still need to tax your vehicle, though, even if no payment is required.
Find out if you qualify for vehicle tax exemption on the government website. You can claim your exemption when you apply for your vehicle tax.
From theme parks, museums and live events, many entertainment venues offer discount passes for disabled visitors.
Several disabled discount cards are available in the UK, offering reduced cost and easy access on a range of days out. However, it’s always worth contacting the venue in advance to see if they offer any discounts for disabled visitors or their carers.
From theme parks, museums and live events, many entertainment venues offer discount passes for disabled visitors.
Several disabled discount cards are available in the UK, offering reduced cost and easy access on a range of days out. However, it’s always worth contacting the venue in advance to see if they offer any discounts for disabled visitors or their carers.
For £15, and valid for three years, the Access Card helps venues understand your access needs through easy-to-read symbols – like needing a wheelchair space or help with queuing.
A Radar Key provides access to over 9,000 locked accessible toilets in public areas like shopping centres and train stations. They’re available through local councils or can be purchased from Disability Rights UK for £5.
Purpl Discounts is a membership card scheme that secures offers for attractions such as the London Eye, LEGOLAND and Warwick Castle.
Your friend, family member, or carer may be eligible for a carer’s ticket, giving them free or discounted access when accompanying you on activities or days out:
Whether you’re shopping, sightseeing, or hopping on public transport, Monarch Mobility is here to help you stay mobile.
Our range of foldable mobility scooters is perfect for bus, train, car, or plane travel – helping you enjoy a range of activities in comfort and with confidence.
Browse our mobility scooters or book a free home demo today!
Electric wheelchairs – or powerchairs, as they’re also known – are a lifeline for many people, offering increased independence and everyday mobility. To keep your powerchair running smoothly and ensure its longevity, regular care and maintenance are essential.
In this guide, mobility specialists Monarch Mobility share expert tips on electric wheelchair maintenance, including how often to service your chair, how to clean it, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Looking after your powered wheelchair isn’t just about keeping it looking good – it’s about ensuring continued safety, comfort, and performance. Regular cleaning, routine servicing, and simple maintenance checks can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, keep repair costs down, and ensure you stay mobile for longer.
This wheelchair cleaning checklist and maintenance guide will help keep your powerchair in peak condition!
The battery is the most vital part of your powerchair, so it’s important to make sure it’s charged correctly to maximise range and performance.
Keeping tyres pumped at the correct pressure improves manoeuvrability and reduces battery strain.
Faulty brakes can be dangerous for you and other members of the public.
The cushions on your electric wheelchair provide comfort and support, so it’s essential to look after them.
These often get bumped and knocked and can easily become damaged.
Do wheelchairs need to be oiled? Absolutely! Lubricating helps reduce wear and keeps your powerchair driving smoothly.
Keeping your powerchair clean is crucial for hygiene and optimal function. It’s also a great way to spot early signs of damage.
Protecting your powerchair from the elements will ensure it runs more smoothly for longer.
Whilst not essential, regular servicing is encouraged. Just like a car, a powerchair has electrical components, batteries, tyres, and other moving parts that wear over time. Servicing ensures everything is functioning correctly and helps extend the lifespan of your equipment.
We recommend giving your powerchair a quick maintenance check every month and booking a professional service once a year. This ensures that the internal components – which aren’t easily visible – are working as they should.
If you spot something wrong with your electric wheelchair, check your manual for troubleshooting ideas. If you are unable to fix your powerchair yourself, contact a certified powered wheelchair specialist who will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
A well-maintained electric wheelchair helps you stay mobile, safe, and independent. Following a regular cleaning and maintenance routine will give you peace of mind and ensure your powerchair supports your daily life.
For advice on buying a new or replacement powerchair, contact our friendly team at Monarch Mobility – the UK’s experts in powered mobility aids.
Your home should be a place of safety, comfort, and independence, whatever your stage in life. If you’re elderly or living with a disability and need help with mobility in your home, you may need to make some practical adaptations to improve accessibility. From simple grab rails to full wheelchair-friendly layouts, these changes can significantly enhance your quality of life.
This guide explores accessible home adaptations for the disabled and the elderly, including funding options, practical solutions, and how Monarch Mobility can support your journey.
Improving your home’s accessibility isn’t just about safety – it can enhance your independence, comfort, and confidence.
By reducing everyday barriers, these changes help elderly and disabled individuals to live comfortably at home for longer, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Every person is different, and so are their mobility requirements. Before making changes, it’s important to consider which adaptations will support you the most.
A Care Needs Assessment from your local council is a great first step. This free service evaluates the kind of equipment or adaptations that would help support your daily life.
So, how do you adapt a home for the elderly? From your entrance path to your bathroom, your home will likely have lots of potential to be adapted to make it safer and more accessible. Let’s take a look at some of the key areas:
The approach to your home should be smooth and accessible:
If you have difficulty opening or entering your door, these accessible door solutions may help:
Narrow doorways can make moving between rooms a challenge:
Make the heart of the home safe and easier to navigate:
If stairs are a challenge, there are a few stair aids to consider:
Adaptations in the bathroom can reduce risks of slips and falls and provide support for the elderly:
Good mobility in your home depends on space and layout:
Specialist mobility furniture can increase your comfort and safety, they include aids for getting in and out of bed and reclining chairs:
Who pays for home adaptations? If you are worried about the cost of accessible house adaptations for disabled or elderly living, there could be funding available to you.
Making your home more accessible is more than just comfort – it’s about maintaining your independence and quality of life. Whether you install a simple disabled hand rail or a complete wet room, there are solutions to suit every home and every need.
Monarch Mobility provides a range of home aids for the elderly, from mobility scooters and rise recliner chairs to threshold ramps.
Contact the team to see how we can help make your everyday living easier.
Will you be joining us at the Motability Harrogate event on the 1st and 2nd of August?
