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Shopmobility returns with Council funding

Guildford Shopmobility launch

We've given £44,874.00 in community grant funding to Guildford Shopmobility in the town centre. This much-valued service can now continue to help people with mobility issues to access local shops, services and community life. 

Guildford Shopmobility has successfully reopened following a partnership effort involving the Council, Experience Guildford, and local service users who campaigned for its return after the previous provider was no longer able to operate. 

Shopmobility provides the hire of mobility equipment, helping people with mobility issues visit and enjoy Guildford town centre independently.  

Cllr Carla Morson, Lead Councillor for Community Services, says: 

"We know how much this service means to the people who rely on it, so when the previous provider could no longer operate, we committed to keeping funding in place while a new operator was found. 

"I'm delighted we've been able to deliver on that promise, and even though we're halfway through the year, we've been able to increase the funding we awarded to the service to help give it the strongest possible start. We want to see it thrive, so it can continue supporting our community for years to come. 

"This has been a true community effort. Working alongside Experience Guildford, we're proud to have supported local people in bringing Shopmobility back and helping to create a more accessible, inclusive and welcoming town centre." 

Shirlee Posner, Shopmobility service user and campaigner, said:  

"When I heard Shopmobility was going to close, I knew I had to do something. This service has been such an important part of my life, and I know, through personal experience, how much it means to the people who rely on it. I was determined to fight for its future and together with Ruth, we worked hard to find a new operator.  

"We're absolutely thrilled that our campaign has been successful and that, with the support and funding from Guildford Borough Council, Shopmobility is reopening and will continue to be there for the community." 

Ruth House, Shopmobility campaigner, reflecting on the impact Shopmobility has had on her family, said:  

"Shopmobility was a game changer for us. My husband's spine condition made walking any distance hard, but it meant we could once again enjoy Guildford town centre together, use its shops and services and meet friends for coffee or lunch.  

"It's not just about the person using the equipment. It helps families and friends too and supports people with both short-term and long-term. For many people, it's not a luxury, it's essential for maintaining independence and staying connected." 

Amanda Masters, Chief Executive at Experience Guildford, said: 

"It was a real pleasure to step in and support the team. We couldn't see this service lost forever, it is far too important to too many people. Being able to access our town centre is crucial, not only to an individual's mobility and independence, but also to the town's economy."

Shopmobility provides mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs for people with short or long-term mobility issues, helping them access Guildford town centre. The service is based at Level 3, Bedford Road Car Park, Guildford, GU1 4SA, with easy access to the Friary Shopping Centre. It is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm.

You can contact Shopmobility by:

Published on: 2 October 2026