Wheelchair Hire in Exeter: Your Mobility Guide

Exeter, with its rich history, bustling shopping centres, and charming attractions, is a city best explored at one's own pace. However, for individuals facing mobility challenges, navigating the city centre can sometimes prove daunting. Thankfully, a dedicated local charity, ExeAccess, stands ready to transform this experience, offering essential mobility equipment hire that empowers both residents and visitors to enjoy all that Exeter has to offer without limitation. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about hiring a wheelchair or scooter in Exeter through ExeAccess, ensuring your visit or daily life is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

ExeAccess is more than just a hire service; it’s a cornerstone of the community, tirelessly working to support independent mobility for those who need it most. Their commitment extends beyond equipment, encompassing invaluable services like their Ring and Ride bus service, all designed to enhance accessibility and quality of life. Whether your mobility needs are temporary, perhaps due to an injury, or a more permanent aspect of your daily life, ExeAccess provides a crucial lifeline, enabling you to participate fully in the vibrant life of Exeter.

Unlocking Exeter: Who Can Hire from ExeAccess?

One of the most appealing aspects of ExeAccess's service is its broad accessibility. The charity's mission is to support anyone who experiences difficulty getting around, making their services incredibly inclusive. Here's a breakdown of who can benefit:

• Adults Over 18: Anyone aged 18 or over is eligible to hire equipment. This straightforward age requirement ensures that the service is available to the vast majority of adults needing assistance.
• Temporary or Permanent Mobility Needs: It doesn't matter if your mobility issue is short-term, such as recovering from surgery or a temporary injury, or if it's a permanent condition. ExeAccess understands that mobility challenges come in many forms and are prepared to assist regardless of the duration of your need.
• Residents and Visitors: Whether you call Exeter home or are just visiting for a day, a weekend, or a longer stay, ExeAccess welcomes you. This is particularly beneficial for tourists who wish to explore Exeter's attractions like the Cathedral, the Quay, or Princesshay without being restricted by personal mobility equipment.
• Children: Mobility support isn't just for adults. ExeAccess also thoughtfully provides for younger individuals, offering one wheelchair and three strollers specifically designed for children. This ensures that families can explore together, making excursions much more manageable and enjoyable for everyone.

The inclusive nature of ExeAccess truly underscores their commitment to the community. They aim to break down barriers, allowing everyone to access the shops, attractions, and businesses in the City Centre with greater ease and independence.

A Fleet for Every Need: What's Available?

ExeAccess boasts a versatile range of mobility equipment to cater to various preferences and requirements. Their inventory is carefully selected to provide practical and reliable solutions for navigating Exeter's diverse terrain.

Manual Wheelchairs

For those who prefer a more traditional option, or who have a companion to assist, manual wheelchairs are readily available. These are lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and perfect for shorter trips or for use within specific venues. They offer excellent flexibility and are a cost-effective solution for daily hire.

Motorised Wheelchairs and Scooters

For individuals seeking greater independence and less physical exertion, motorised wheelchairs and scooters are an excellent choice. These powered options allow users to cover longer distances and navigate slopes with ease, making them ideal for exploring the entirety of Exeter's city centre, from the high street to the more expansive areas. The scooters, in particular, offer a sense of freedom and can be a fantastic way to experience the city at your own pace.

Collapsible and Solid Tyre Scooters

Beyond the standard options, ExeAccess also offers more specialised equipment for long-term hire. This includes collapsible scooters, which are perfect for individuals who might need to transport their scooter in a car, and solid tyre scooters, which offer enhanced durability and puncture resistance for peace of mind during extended use.

The variety of equipment ensures that you can find a suitable vehicle that matches your specific mobility needs, whether they are temporary or permanent. ExeAccess's team is available to help you choose the best option during your booking or upon collection.

Affordable Freedom: Understanding Hire Costs

Access to mobility equipment should not be a financial burden, and ExeAccess reflects this philosophy through its very reasonable hire costs. Their pricing structure is designed to be affordable, making their services accessible to a wider audience.

Daily Hire Costs

As you can see, the daily rate is highly competitive, offering exceptional value for the freedom and independence it provides. This flat rate for both manual and powered options makes budgeting simple and clear.

Overnight and Long-Term Hire

For those who require equipment for more than a single day, ExeAccess offers flexible solutions:

• Overnight Hire: Motorised wheelchairs and scooters can be hired overnight for an additional £10, allowing for longer usage periods without the need to return the equipment at the end of the business day. This is particularly useful for visitors staying in Exeter for several days.
• Long-Term Hire: ExeAccess also provides options for long-term hire of manual wheelchairs, motorised wheelchairs, collapsible scooters, and solid tyre scooters. Specific costs for long-term hire would be best discussed directly with ExeAccess, as these may vary based on the duration and type of equipment. This service is invaluable for residents with ongoing mobility needs or visitors planning an extended stay.

Payment for hire can be made conveniently by either card or cash, offering flexibility to users. Please note that the daily motorised wheelchair/scooter hire cost is subject to terms & conditions, which you can clarify when booking.

Seamless Access: Location and Collection Details

The practicality of a mobility hire service hinges significantly on its location and ease of access. ExeAccess has strategically positioned its office to maximise convenience for its users.

Conveniently Located in Paris Street

ExeAccess is conveniently located in Paris Street, right on the edge of the popular Princesshay shopping centre. This prime location means that once you've collected your equipment, you are immediately immersed in the heart of Exeter's shopping and leisure district. Princesshay itself is designed with accessibility in mind, making it an ideal starting point for your city exploration.

Excellent Transport Links

The Paris Street office benefits from superb connectivity to Exeter's main transport hubs:

• Exeter Bus Station: The office is just a stone's throw away from the Exeter Bus Station, making it incredibly easy for those arriving by bus to collect their mobility aid. ExeAccess's own Ring & Ride bus service even stops directly outside their office, and by arrangement, they can bring a scooter out to the bus for you, eliminating any initial mobility challenges upon arrival.
• Exeter Central Railway Station: For those arriving by train, ExeAccess can also make arrangements to meet you at Exeter Central Railway Station. If you inform them of your arrival time in advance, they can endeavour to bring a vehicle to the station, ensuring a smooth transition from train to mobility aid.

Free Parking Available

For users who travel by car, the availability of free parking is a significant advantage. While specific details about the free parking should be confirmed directly with ExeAccess, this amenity greatly simplifies the process of collecting and returning equipment, particularly for those with limited mobility.

Collection and Return Times

All vehicles must be collected and returned to the ExeAccess office in Paris Street between 10 am and 3:45 pm, Monday to Friday. It's crucial to adhere to these timings to ensure the smooth operation of the service and to avoid any inconvenience.

Planning Your Visit: How to Book Your Equipment

While ExeAccess strives to assist everyone, planning ahead is highly recommended to ensure you secure the equipment you need, especially during peak times. Here's how to go about booking:

Booking by Phone

The most reliable way to ensure a suitable vehicle is available for your desired date is to book by phone. You can reach ExeAccess on 01392 494001. When you call, be ready to provide details such as:

• The type of equipment you require (manual wheelchair, motorised wheelchair, scooter, child's wheelchair/stroller).
• The date(s) and time you wish to hire the equipment.
• Whether you need it for a full day, overnight, or for a longer period.

Booking in advance not only guarantees availability but also allows ExeAccess to prepare the equipment for you, making your collection process quicker and more efficient.

Walk-Ins

While booking is strongly encouraged, ExeAccess understands that sometimes plans change or spontaneous needs arise. They will always try their utmost to help if you simply call in without a prior booking. However, availability cannot be guaranteed for walk-ins, particularly for specialised equipment or during busy periods. To avoid disappointment, a quick phone call is always the best course of action.

Long-Term Solutions: Extended Mobility Support

For residents of Exeter or visitors planning an extended stay, ExeAccess's long-term hire options provide a sustainable solution for ongoing mobility needs. This service is particularly beneficial for:

• Individuals recovering from long-term injuries or surgeries: Rather than purchasing expensive equipment for a temporary, albeit extended, period, long-term hire offers a cost-effective alternative.
• Residents with progressive mobility conditions: It allows individuals to try different types of equipment before committing to a purchase or provides a reliable aid for daily living without the upfront cost and maintenance responsibilities of ownership.
• Visitors on extended holidays: Exploring Exeter and the surrounding Devon area over several weeks becomes much more feasible with consistent access to a mobility aid.

The long-term hire options include manual and motorised wheelchairs, as well as collapsible and solid tyre scooters, offering a comprehensive range to suit various requirements. Discussing your specific long-term needs with the friendly team at ExeAccess will enable them to provide tailored advice and pricing.

Ensuring a Seamless Experience with ExeAccess

ExeAccess is dedicated to providing a seamless experience for all its users. Beyond the equipment hire, their commitment to customer service and support is evident in several ways:

• Expert Advice: The team at ExeAccess possesses valuable knowledge about mobility solutions. They can offer guidance on the most suitable equipment for your specific needs and provide instructions on its safe and effective use.
• Maintenance and Reliability: All equipment is regularly maintained and checked to ensure it is in excellent working order, providing users with reliable and safe mobility.
• Community Focus: As a charity, ExeAccess operates with a strong community ethos. Every hire contributes to their ability to continue providing vital services, fostering greater independence and accessibility within Exeter.

By choosing ExeAccess, you are not only securing a mobility solution but also supporting a valuable local institution that makes a tangible difference in people's lives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wheelchair Hire in Exeter

Q: Can visitors to Exeter hire equipment from ExeAccess?

A: Yes, absolutely! ExeAccess welcomes both residents and visitors to Exeter. Their service is designed to help anyone who needs assistance getting around the city centre, making it perfect for tourists wishing to explore.

Q: Is there an age limit for hiring equipment?

A: Adults aged 18 and over can hire equipment. ExeAccess also has one wheelchair and three strollers specifically available for children.

Q: What types of mobility equipment are available for hire?

A: ExeAccess provides manual wheelchairs, motorised wheelchairs, and scooters. For long-term hire, collapsible scooters and solid tyre scooters are also available.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a wheelchair or scooter?

A: Manual wheelchairs cost £7.50 per day. Motorised wheelchairs and scooters also cost £7.50 per day, with an option for overnight hire at £10 (for motorised/scooters). Long-term hire rates are available upon enquiry.

Q: Can I pay by card or cash?

A: Yes, ExeAccess accepts both card and cash payments for your convenience.

Q: Where is ExeAccess located, and is there parking available?

A: ExeAccess is located in Paris Street, on the edge of the Princesshay shopping centre, with easy access to the Exeter Bus Station. Free parking is available; please contact them directly for more information on parking arrangements.

Q: What are the collection and return times for equipment?

A: All vehicles must be collected and returned to the ExeAccess office between 10 am and 3:45 pm, Monday to Friday.

Q: Do I need to book in advance, or can I just turn up?

A: Booking by phone (01392 494001) is highly recommended to ensure a suitable vehicle is available. However, ExeAccess will always try to help if you call in without a booking, but availability cannot be guaranteed.

Q: Can ExeAccess deliver the equipment to the bus or train station?

A: By arrangement, ExeAccess can bring a scooter out to the Ring & Ride bus stop outside their office. They can also try to arrange to bring a vehicle to Exeter Bus Station or Central Railway Station to meet you if you let them know your arrival time in advance.

Q: What if I need a wheelchair for an extended period?

A: Long-term hire options are available for manual wheelchairs, motorised wheelchairs, collapsible scooters, and solid tyre scooters. It's best to discuss your specific long-term needs directly with ExeAccess for tailored advice and pricing.

In conclusion, ExeAccess provides an invaluable service to Exeter, fostering independence and ensuring that mobility challenges do not hinder anyone from experiencing the city. Their affordable rates, diverse equipment, accessible location, and commitment to customer service make them the go-to resource for wheelchair and scooter hire in Exeter. Plan your visit, book your equipment, and discover Exeter with confidence and ease.

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