The concept of Shopmobility originated in the 1970’s with the first scheme opening in Milton Keynes in 1979. There are now over 350 schemes nationwide with the majority being self-funding and run as a registered charity, supported by the local authority or a commercial organisation such as a shopping centre.
The National Federation of Shopmobility (NFSUK) with which the scheme is affiliated was founded in 1990 with the aim of encouraging the development of a Shopmobility network throughout the UK.
The need for a Shopmobility Scheme was addressed by Melton Borough Council in 2006. Shopmobility operated out of 7 Kings Street with 4 manual wheelchairs and 2 motorised scooters.
With expanding users the Scheme acquired a Mobile Unit which is located in its current position in St Mary’s Way Car Park. Hires of equipment roughly number 1000 each year, utilising 4 wheelchairs and 10 scooters. Membership numbers are well on their way to 450.