So OFTEN, mobility impaired and elderly people tell me how life has narrowed. While I listen to these stories, I can’t help wondering why they don’t take advantage of the facilities that are on offer?

Is it because they are unaware of them, are nervous of trying out something new, or is it just because they look back and wish things were how they had always been?

I do hope that readers do not believe the latter because it is no use wasting time on regrets for what has passed. Rather take a positive attitude to the future and embrace all that is put there to help.

Take, for instance, the difficulties expressed to me about walking ‘round shops, museums, exhibitions or exploring the many colleges’. Here in Oxford City we have a Shopmobility Scheme that is open every day of the week.

There is no charge for borrowing one of the machines on offer although a donation is always welcome.

Feeling nervous? Don’t worry, the manager will advise on the most appropriate machine for you and give you training on how to use it.

He is very patient as well. Now all you have to do is to use your common sense when moving among pedestrians and bask in the pleasure of seeing and enjoying all the things that you once found difficult to reach.

Once you have had this experience and the freedom it brings there will be no holding you back.

I read once about a group of scooter users called “The Peckham Peacocks” who had formed a team and did formation scootering. I wish there was one here because I think it would be good fun.

What I am disappointed about is the recent removal of long-term hire. I asked if this was because machines had been damaged or stolen but that was not the case so even the manager had no explanation.

I have visited many Shopmobility schemes where long-term hire is available. There is also no problem with people taking them abroad so what has happened to Oxford?

Campaigners have long been pressing for Shopmobility schemes in larger towns in The Vale and South Oxfordshire districts, but no luck so far.

No excuses for these councils as West Oxfordshire has been running a successful scheme for many years.

It is time they recognised that these districts do have disabled people living in their patch and paying their taxes so they must surely be shown some consideration.

I think we must renew the campaign. I know what they will say; no money to spare. Same old excuse. But surely even they can see that the more they send people into isolation the higher will be the cost of care as people descend into illness and depression.

Come on, give disabled people more than a passing thought.