Shoppers with mobility problems in Gloucester will find it easier to shop from tomorrow as Gloucester Shopmobility reopens its doors.

After closing in March due to lockdown, staff have been busy working to make the service secure and safe for its customers and staff.

Changes will be reviewed every three weeks, but customers will still receive the same friendly service they have enjoyed from Shopmobility for the last 30 years.

A revised opening schedule, hire terms and queueing system - including drop-off and collections bays - have been designed to ensure all Shopmobility customers arriving and leaving can follow social distancing rules. 

There will be sanitising stations available and the team has been provided with the relevant PPE and safety measures, including a cleaning area, where scooters are cleaned at the beginning of each day and on return.

The service will be open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with 12 scooters available for hire for essential shopping, for a maximum of two hours each time. Customers will need to book their scooters at least 24 hours in advance. Collection slots will be staggered every 15 minutes, to ensure people can still socially distance.

Cllr Jennie Watkins, cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods at Gloucester City Council, said: "It's fantastic that we are able to reopen the service to the public, as we know how valued it is by those who use it.

"Getting people back into our city's shops is also really critical to Gloucester's recovery from a difficult few months, and Shopmobility provides accessibility to those residents and visitors who need help getting around the businesses and attractions in the city.

"The Shopmobility team is ready to give customers a positive experience and we're grateful for their patience, as the staff made sure they could reopen as safely as possible."

Customers can call 01452 302871 to book or visit the website for more information: www.gloucester.gov.uk/culture-leisure/shopmobility