The Brain Charity

For individuals with restricted mobility, disabilities or those considering retiring from driving altogether, maintaining independence can feel overwhelming. The Hubs Mobility Advice Service (HMAS) offers free resources to support stress-free travel, without needing to drive. Operated by Driving Mobility offers accessible transport alternatives, enabling individuals to remain mobile and independent.

What is the Hubs Mobility Advice Service?

Delivered through Driving Mobility, with a network of over twenty charities and NHS-funded centres across the UK, the Hubs Mobility Advice Service provides advice and assistance for accessible travel. Fifteen of the Driving Mobility centres provide Hubs staff who are specifically trained to offer the latest guidance and advice regarding accessible travel alternatives. Whether you need help finding a wheelchair-friendly bus, understanding your rights or using mobility scooters on trains, the Hubs team are here to help.

Who can benefit from HMAS?

HMAS says, “If you have restricted mobility, are considering retirement from driving or have a disability, the Hubs Mobility Advice Service will aim to provide all the answers you need for stress-free travel without a car.”

They offer friendly guidance to help people of all ages and abilities to remain mobile and connected to their communities.

Services may vary between their centres; however, all will provide free detailed advice about:

• Accessible buses and coaches
• Easy access rail and air travel
• Community transport
• Rights as a disabled passenger
• Hiring or purchasing the right scooters and wheelchairs
• Local, national and international travel planning

Understanding your rights under the Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 is vital to ensuring disabled people have equal access to transport services.

Transport providers have a duty to provide accessible service and make reasonable adjustments to offer the same standards of service as non-disabled people.

• They cannot refuse someone or charge them extra because of their disability.
• Must guarantee to accommodate a disabled traveller if notice is given, and must make every effort to help if no notice is given.
• Must provide help with moving around the station or terminal, getting on and off, and loading and unloading luggage.
• Must provide information in accessible formats.
• Must train their staff in disability awareness and specifics such as handling equipment.
• Must provide adequate compensation for any lost or damaged equipment.
• Must allow registered assistance dogs to travel on buses and coaches.
• May refuse disabled people for valid safety reasons.

HMAS have more information on their website whether you’re travelling by rail, coach, taxi or any other means.

By understanding those rights, individuals can travel with greater confidence, knowing that transport providers have a legal obligation to accommodate your needs.

What advice and services do they offer?

The Hubs team provides free, personalised advice to help individuals navigate the many accessible travel options available. Services include:

• Accessible buses and coaches: Discover the best options for easy boarding and accessible seating.
• Wheelchair-friendly transport: Learn how to safely use wheelchairs or mobility scooters on public transport.
• Air travel guidance: Get practical advice on flying with a disability.
• Community transport options: Access information on local transport services provided by charities or community organisations.
• Taxi services: Find out which companies have vehicles adapted for wheelchair users.
• Disabled passenger rights: Understand your legal protections when travelling by train, bus, taxi or plane.
• Mobility equipment: Receive help selecting the right mobility scooter or wheelchair for your needs.
• Journey planning: Get support for planning national or international trips, ensuring every step of your journey is accessible and stress-free.

Why are we highlighting Hubs Mobility Advice Services?

At The Brain Charity, we know how important mobility is to maintaining independence, particularly for those living with brain injuries or other neurological conditions. The Hubs Mobility Advice Service complements our mission by ensuring people can access the tools and resources they need to stay connected and self-sufficient.

From helping people find accessible buses and community transport to understanding their rights as disabled passengers under the Equality Act, HMAS offer expert, compassionate guidance to make independent travel a reality.

To learn more about the Hubs Mobility Advice Service, visit their website or contact your nearest participating centre today.