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Automated mobility scooters trial in Jersey

The Government of Jersey Staff from Shopmobility stand behind three scooters, with a man on one of the scooters at Liberation Station The Government of Jersey
The scheme will be among the first to trial the remote access technology, Shopmobility Jersey says

People with disabilities can now hire a mobility scooter with their mobile phone before picking it up through an automated system at Jersey's main transport hub in St Helier.

The trial, led by Shopmobility Jersey, is based at Liberation Station and allows users to book and pay for a scooter online before unlocking their vehicle with a secure code.

Previously, scooters had to be collected from the Shopmobility base on Sand Street. If successful, the trial could be extended across the island.

Edward Trevor MBE, founder and chairman of Shopmobility Jersey, said: "As far as I'm aware this is the first remote scheme in the British Isles."

'Improve accessibility'

Trevor added: "They've had to do lots of tests to make sure the scooters can be immobilised remotely and we have control.

"I hope it will enable people, who might otherwise find travelling into St Helier difficult, due to limited parking or mobility barriers to enjoy greater independence and access to the town.

The adapted scooters use smart technology that helps manage bookings, monitor usage and keep users safe, while still allowing people to access the service independently, Shopmobility Jersey said.

To take part, users will first need to register with Shopmobility Jersey and complete a short training session.

Once registered, they can make bookings and collect a scooter from 06:00 BST, returning it before 21.00 BST at Liberation Station.

The charity said the project was part of ongoing work to improve accessibility on the island.

Meanwhile, Kevin Hart, director of LibertyBus, said many customers had found it "difficult" to walk from the station to the current collection point.

"Having scooters available at the bus station will improve access for people with disabilities," he added.

He noted the trial could reduce traffic by encouraging more people to use the bus.

Dario Gentili, project manager for disability and inclusion in the Government of Jersey, said the trial was a result of co-operation between "community organisations, technology partners and public services".

He said the trial would be reviewed in the new year.

The project's partners include LibertyBus, IoT CI, a technology firm based in the Channel Islands and Electric Mobility.

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