FAQ’s
How do I find Shopmobility Manchester?
From Shudehill Interchange or Withy Grove we are just inside the glass doors of the Shudehill entrance, between the entrance to the Car Park and Service Road.
From the Car Park, take lifts J & K to the ground floor, exit on to the long corridor turning right and we are about 20 yards up the corridor on your right.
What times do Shopmobility Manchester open?
Monday to Saturday 9:30am – 5:30pm
Thursday 9:30am – 7:00pm
Sunday & Bank Holidays 11:00am – 5:00pm
Who can use the Shopmobility Manchester?
Anyone with a temporary or permanent disability, or anyone who feels that getting across the city centre is just too much for them. i.e. if you have broken your leg.
What does shopmobility Manchester do?
We hire mobility equipment – manual and electric wheelchairs, electric scooters and baby buggies. We also provide a meet and greet service around the city centre, volunteer guides for people with sensory impairment and free access to the internet, as well as an information service which will help direct you to other individuals and organisations that could help you.
How much does the service cost?
The service is free. You will need to join as a member on your first visit. To do this you will need to bring two forms of ID that show your name and current home address. You will need to leave these as a deposit that will be returned to you when you return the equipment.
Do I need to book in advance?
It would really help us to ensure that we do have something for you to use if you ring and book in advance. Whilst we will do everything we can to accommodate those not booking in advance we cannot guarantee availability of equipment.
If you require a meet and greet or sensory impairment guide, you will need to book 24 hours in advance to ensure that a volunteer is available.
Where can I use the equipment?
All equipment is for use within the City Centre of Manchester only. Please ask for a map on your first visit.
I use Ring and Ride to get into the city centre, can you meet me?
Volunteers are always on-hand to bring equipment to you at the point you enter the city. We can meet you at the bus or tram stop or either train station. Just let us know where and when at time of booking.
How long can I have the equipment for?
You will normally hire equipment on a daily basis between 9:30am and 5:30pm If you are visiting the city and staying in a hotel or with friends and family we can arrange for you to have equipment over-night as long as you can guarantee the safe keeping and recharging of the equipment.
Is parking in the Arndale NCP free for blue badge holders?
No, but Shopmobility Manchester does have an agreement with NCP to validate parking tickets for those members using the service giving them free parking.
Will I be trained to use the equipment?
All new members receive training in the safe use of equipment on their first visit and if using a different type of equipment from that of previous visits. However volunteers can also accompany you until you feel confident in the use of equipment. If you feel that you may need a volunteer to accompany you around the city centre please advise when you make your booking.
