Sometimes the solution is sitting right there.
A piece of equipment exists that could help someone get into a swimming pool, transfer into a car, participate in rehabilitation or access a community facility.
Everyone involved can see the difference it could make.
The problem is simply finding the money to pay for it.
It’s a frustrating situation experienced by individuals, families, carers, therapists and community organisations across Australia. And it’s one of the reasons the Mobility Foundation was created.
The gap between “available” and “accessible”
Australia has come a long way in developing assistive technology and accessible equipment.
But equipment being available doesn’t automatically make it accessible.
Funding pathways can be complicated. Eligibility requirements differ. Budgets are limited. Some equipment doesn’t fit neatly within an existing funding category. An organisation might identify an accessibility improvement that would benefit hundreds of people, yet have no budget available to purchase it.
For individuals and families, the situation can be even more personal.
You might know exactly what would make everyday life easier, only to discover that your existing funding doesn’t cover it, or doesn’t cover enough of it.
That’s where community funding can play an incredibly valuable role.
Turning community funds into something tangible
The Mobility Foundation connects funding with real accessibility needs.
Rather than accessibility remaining an abstract idea, funding can become something people can actually use: a pool hoist, accessible pool steps, an aquatic wheelchair or equipment that helps someone transfer between a wheelchair and vehicle.
And the impact doesn’t necessarily stop with one person.
Equipment installed at a community swimming pool, rehabilitation facility or recreation centre may support hundreds or potentially thousands of people throughout its working life.
A single funding decision can therefore create years of greater participation.
You don’t need to know all the answers before asking
One of the biggest barriers to seeking assistance can simply be assuming you won’t qualify.
Don’t rule yourself out before you’ve asked the question.
Mobility Foundation nominations can be made by individuals, family members, carers, allied health professionals, community members and organisations. You can even nominate yourself.
The Foundation currently accepts eligible nominations from NSW individuals living with disability and organisations delivering services to people with disability or ageing populations.
Applications are free.
If there is a genuine accessibility need and a piece of equipment could make a meaningful difference, it is worth exploring the options.
Because sometimes the missing piece isn’t the solution.
It’s simply finding someone who can help make that solution possible.