News Wheeleasy mobility services launches in Maidstone
A new community-run mobility service launched in Maidstone.
The Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Martin Round, officially opened ‘Wheeleasy Mobility’ in Hermitage Court at a special ribbon-cutting event on Saturday, 24 May 2025.
The service offers short-term wheelchair loans and other essential mobility aids, filling a critical gap left when the British Red Cross centralised its local equipment support. Many of Wheeleasy’s volunteers previously worked on the Red Cross scheme and were determined to preserve the face-to-face care they knew made all the difference.
Nicky Callow, who helped establish Wheeleasy, said:
People come in needing a wheelchair, but often, that’s not quite what they need. Maybe the footplates aren’t right, or the chair’s too heavy. You only find that out by seeing them in person, by trying things out together. That local, human touch, and that’s what we were determined to maintain.
Wheeleasy is run entirely by volunteers, many of whom were on hand at the launch to greet visitors, explain the service, and share stories of the difference it’s already making. The organisation also refurbishes donated equipment for affordable reuse, making support both sustainable and accessible. The premises were kindly donated by The Gallagher Group, whose support has been invaluable in helping the service to get off the ground.
The Mayor said:
Because of the dedication of ex-Red Cross volunteers, the people of Maidstone have a wonderful service in the community now as Wheeleasy Mobility.
Cllr David Naghi, MBC Cabinet Member for Community Cohesion and Safety, added:
We all recognise the value of what Wheeleasy is doing. It’s practical, it’s community-led, and it’s already making a real difference.
For individuals and families facing urgent circumstances, the service can make all the difference, with a former service user commenting: “The relief in being able to get advice and the right equipment so quickly meant getting my father out and about with an end of life prognosis… this meant the world to us.”
Wheeleasy is now inviting donations of equipment - wheelchairs, walkers, toileting aids - and is open to referrals, volunteer applications, and anyone in need of support.
For more information, visit https://wemobility.co.uk or email info@wemobility.co.uk