Splash-resistant wheelchairs can handle light exposure to water such as rain, while waterproof wheelchairs are designed to prevent water ingress even during full submersion, offering much higher protection for both manual and electric models.
Splash-Resistant Wheelchairs Splash-resistant (or water-resistant) wheelchairs are built to withstand minor, incidental contact with water. For electric wheelchairs, this typically means they have an IP rating around IPX4, which protects the device from water splashes coming from any direction but does not protect against full immersion in water.
Features include: Sealed or partially sealed motors and batteries to resist light rain or accidental splashes. Suitable for use on damp streets or light showers for short periods. Requires immediate drying if exposed to significant water to prevent corrosion, rust, or electrical failure.
Accessories like rain covers, joystick guards, and waterproof ponchos are often recommended for additional protection.
Manual splash-resistant wheelchairs may be made from water-resistant materials or have coated frames, but they still rely on careful avoidance of deep puddles or prolonged water exposure.
Waterproof Wheelchairs Waterproof wheelchairs offer a much higher level of protection. In this context, waterproof implies the device is impervious to water, capable of being fully submerged without damage.
Key points: Waterproof wheelchairs are often manual models specifically designed for aquatic or beach use, made of corrosion-resistant materials such as marine-grade aluminum or PVC.
They may include buoyant or floating components, allowing safe use in pools, lakes, or on wet sand. Electric waterproof wheelchairs are extremely rare due to the complexity of sealing electrical and battery components, but innovations like air-powered PneuChairs exist to allow waterproof operation.
Fully waterproof designs prevent any water from reaching sensitive parts, making them suitable for prolonged exposure in pools or wet outdoor environments.
Practical Implications Intended use: Splash-resistant models are suitable for everyday activities with occasional rain or splashes, while waterproof models are for aquatic therapy, beach, or pool access.
Maintenance: Splash-resistant wheelchairs require drying and care after exposure to water, whereas waterproof wheelchairs can tolerate repeated submersion without corroding or short-circuiting.
Material choice: Waterproof models use corrosion-resistant materials and sealed components, spanning manual, lightweight, or specialized designs; splash-resistant models prioritize partial water protection while retaining comfort and mobility.
Legal and warranty considerations: Exposure beyond splash resistance (e.g., heavy rain or puddle submersion) may void warranties on electric wheelchairs.
In summary, splashes versus submersion is the key difference: splash-resistant wheelchairs handle light water exposure safely, while waterproof wheelchairs are designed to be impervious to water, capable of safe use in fully wet environments. Choosing between them depends on how and where the wheelchair will be used.
International Wheelchair Day reminds us that mobility isn’t one-size-fits-all — and that wheels deserve far more appreciation than they get. For many people, a wheelchair isn’t a symbol of limitation but freedom, independence, and the ability to move through the world on their own terms (and occasionally overtake slow walkers without meaning to).
The day celebrates wheelchair users worldwide while recognising the innovation and advocacy that continue to improve accessibility. It’s about real visibility — everyday disabled lives, not inspirational clichés.
Wheelchairs also have a fascinating history. Here are ten facts you might not know:
The first recorded wheelchair dates to the 1500s and was built for a Spanish king — accessibility started when royalty demanded convenience.
Many modern chairs use aerospace-grade metals like aluminium or titanium. Yes, some wheelchairs are basically engineering show-offs.
Wheelchair sports helped drive better everyday chair design through demands for performance and durability.
Chairs are customised down to millimetres because fit directly affects health and comfort.
Manual wheelchair use can burn energy similar to light cycling — wheeling absolutely counts as cardio.
Power chairs can cost as much as a small car yet rarely include cup holders, which feels like a missed opportunity.
Many users personalise their chairs with colours and accessories, turning mobility aids into self-expression.
Front wheels, called casters, mysteriously detect every bump in existence.
Ramps and curb cuts benefit everyone, from parents with prams to travellers with luggage.
Mobility isn’t fixed — many users switch aids depending on fatigue, pain, or environment.
International Wheelchair Day ultimately celebrates autonomy and the reality that mobility looks different for everyone. A wheelchair doesn’t restrict life; it helps people live it fully — ideally on smoother pavements everywhere.
I just recently found out that it is illegal for wheelchair users to roam the streets without lights.
The Highway Code is a set of information, advice, guides and mandatory rules for road users in the United Kingdom. Its objective is to promote road safety and applies to all road users including pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists, as well as motorcyclists and drivers. It gives information on road signs, road markings, vehicle markings, and road safety. The Highway Code is essential reading for everyone and aims to promote safety on the road, whilst also supporting a healthy, sustainable and efficient transport system.
I knew that it was unsafe but I didn’t realise it was illegal. How can it be illegal if wheelchairs are not licensed vehicles? What if wheelchair users don’t have access to lights? What if they are expensive and unaffordable?
Lights or reflectors can be purchased online through Amazon. They can also be found at any cycling store. So now that we know, let’s abide by the rules!
Disability, belonging, fitting in, and inclusion are all important concepts that relate to creating a more equitable and inclusive society. While they are related, they each have distinct meanings.
Disability refers to a physical or mental impairment that limits a person’s ability to perform certain tasks or activities. It is important to recognize that disability is not a personal failing, but rather a natural part of human diversity. This usually makes people ‘stand out’ by default.
Belonging, fitting in, and inclusion are all important aspects of creating a positive and productive work environment. According to a report by Bain & Company, building inclusive teams improves performance and is the right thing to do. It also pays off in recruitment, retention, and better teamwork. People describe what being included looks and feels like in remarkably similar ways. Helping everyone feel included is deceptively difficult, but organizations can navigate the complexities by marrying systemic change with more inclusive behaviours.
In summary:
Fitting in means conforming to group norms.
It can lead to suppressing one’s true identity to gain acceptance.
People may prioritize conformity over individuality.
Being included celebrates diversity and uniqueness.
It promotes a sense of belonging based on shared values of respect and empathy.
Allows individuals to feel valued for their authentic selves.
When buying a new wheelchair, there are many types to consider. Wheelchair assessments can be quite stressful when applying for a new wheelchair as frequent as every four years. It makes it worse when able bodied assessors are trying to tell what you need and don’t need. In fact the only reason why I got one in the first place is because the college I attended, made it mandatory for me to have one in order to study there. I was told that Bradford was too hilly so I got a motorised wheelchair to get through college. This is one of the many times that a wheelchair user has to advocate for themselves.
One of the most popular varieties is an electric wheelchair. Before you commit to this purchase, make sure it is the right option for you. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide.
PROS
Pro: They are more comfortable
One of the top reasons people choose an electric wheelchair over a manual one is that they tend to be more comfortable. These chairs are often custom-made to fit the person’s size and body shape. You will find that the seat of the chair is cushioned to provide extra support and has a headrest at just the right height. It might also have additional back support. Also, the pads of the seat sit more securely than manual wheelchair seat pads. In general, electric wheelchairs will have more custom options for comfort than the manual wheelchairs have.
Pro: There are a lot of great features
You also have a wider range of features when you choose an electric wheelchair. Not only is the wheelchair motorized so you can go farther faster, but you can go in reverse without too much effort. You can also add a lot of different features since the larger wheelchairs provide ample space for extras. For example, if you don’t have good use of your arms and hands, you can get an electric wheelchair that moves when you change your head positions or get a voice-controlled wheelchair. Some models also add built-in heat just in case you are out on a cold day. You can get one with a seat that rises to help you get items on a higher shelf. This feature encourages pressure relief and independence. The newer models even have extra security features to prevent it from being stolen.
Pro: You have more independence
Perhaps most of all, you have more independence with an electric wheelchair. As someone who is a wheelchair user, it can be hard requiring someone to move the wheelchair for you, even when you do not have the energy to use your arms for turning the wheels of a manual chair. If you want to be able to get around freely without someone else’s help, an electric wheelchair is your best option.
CONS
Con: The wheelchair is large and heavy
On the downside, electric wheelchairs are large and bulky, not to mention heavy. Nobody will be able to lift this chair on their own to get it into a vehicle or into your home. You must have a proper ramp or a wheelchair-friendly vehicle. Manual wheelchairs are light enough to lift and fold to fit just about anywhere.
Con: They are more expensive
Naturally, electric wheelchairs are considerably more expensive. You are paying for all those extra features, the motorized function, and the overall size of the new chair. It is possible that your insurance policy will cover some of the costs, so you should check with them before you decide not to get this type of wheelchair. Charities, government and personal fundraisers may help but there’s no guarantee they will cover the costs.
Con: It impedes on your cardiovascular strength.
Upper body strength is important for a wheelchair user, especially when you have little to no use of your lower extremities.
Con: It is hazardous to use them in rain, ice, mud, sand and snow.
The traction from the wheels gets stuck in ice, mud, sand and snow. It can also be slippery when it rains. It is also tricky to charge them in a power cut.
I never knew what pressure ulcers were until I got one for almost all pressure points. I am currently facing possible amputation. If this happens what am I gonna do?
24 hour support will be needed. I don’t like the idea of amputation. The problem is, I’ve been having pressure ulcers, foot x-rays and MRIs/CTIs. I’ve had a series of meetings about my right foot. I’ve got antibiotics to take. Blood sugars, protein levels, blood circulation, feet pulses and kidneys all contribute to the feet. I also got to see photos from MRI scans. I got permission to take photos of them. The heel bone is infected. I know what it’s like to be cured of pressure ulcers, but they keep returning, especially on my feet. What’s going on?
As a result, I have chosen to join the fight against pressure ulcers.
During my first year of college, the pressure ulcers started. When this happened, I got a social worker, carers, District Nurses from the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London while studying. I also have a Tissue Viability Nurse and a Podiatrist. Before the pandemic, I visited the doctor’s office for appointments. Now I get home visits.
One day, the wound on my right foot seemed smelly to the nurse as if it’s infected so I was on antibiotics for 7 days. Sensation and movement is limited from the ankles down as a result of lower spine damage due to Spina Bifida. Pressure ulcers can also be caused by bed mattresses or wheelchairs. Bermuda has a lack of resources and a lack of information. There are no Spina Bifida clinics/specialists in Bermuda. Lived with parents. Swimming in the salt ocean in Bermuda beaches has contributed to the healing process. Before England and College, I had no pressure ulcers.
Podiatry and District Nurses tend to clash from time to time. District Nurses visit three times a week while Podiatry only visited once. District Nurses know how to dress my foot correctly. Which one is more important?
Pressure Sores (also called bedsores or decubitus ulcers) Pressure sores, also called bedsores or decubitus ulcers, are areas of broken skin and underlying tissues that have been damaged by pressure. Pressure (such as sitting in the same position for too long) restricts blood being supplied to the area, so the tissues become deprived of oxygen and toxins build up, which causes the skin and tissue cells to die. People with Spina Bifida may not feel this damage beginning because of reduced feeling in parts of their body.
PURSUN GROUP IN LEEDS Prevention is better than cure! You must have tough skin. Pay attention to pressure points. Additionally, make sure you have good quality, well-fitting shoes that do not cause red marks on your feet. You may want to ask your GP to refer you to an orthotics centre to have shoes made especially for you. The styles are much better than they used to be!
Make sure you have a well-fitting wheelchair with a pressure-relieving/ reducing cushion. Pressure mapping in the wheelchair cushion. Always use your footplates to support your feet and stop your legs from ‘hanging down’, which is bad for the circulation. Ergonomic Assessment required.
Feet must be elevated above the head, especially in bed, for good circulation. Check your wheelchair does not leave red marks on your legs or body. When you see a reddened area of skin, tell your GP straightaway. Don’t wait to see if it improves on its own. If left untreated they can take a lot longer to heal. If you do have a skin breakdown, make sure your health professionals look at the reasons why it happened, and don’t just apply dressings. Change your sitting position frequently throughout the day and have a chair at home to sit in other than your wheelchair. Try to spend part of each day off your bottom. Check your skin regularly for pressure sores using a mirror to see areas of your body you cannot see otherwise. Pay particular attention to areas of skin where you have little or no feeling.
Massage is now advised against as recent evidence suggests that it is not beneficial for pressure areas and may be harmful.
Hygiene: Access to Showering facilities instead of bathing facilities in England. District nurses clean and dress wound 3x a week maximum, in addition to personal daily showering. Skin care included Aqueous cream. No scented creams are allowed on broken skin. I shower daily but due to pressure ulcers and a PICO, I also use a LIMBO to cover my damaged foot to keep it clean and dry.
Why does immobility cause pressure ulcers? Poor mobility/immobility: Patients who are unable to independently change position are at increased risk of developing a pressure ulcer, due to pressure exerted over bony body parts which results in reduced blood flow to the tissues and subsequent hypoxia.
CURE
I also use a Profile bed, I prefer loose clothing vs tight clothing like dresses or sweat suits. Compression socks/stockings/orthopaedic shoes/socks because sensation and movement is limited from my ankles down.
Incontinence can also contribute to pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers must be kept clean and dry. Previously during the first four months of my first year in college, I skipped meals for the sake of my studies. I was also given a Dietician who put me on a high protein diet. My meal plan looks something like this:
Unplanned weight loss is a major risk factor for malnutrition and pressure ulcer development. Suboptimal nutrition interferes with the function of the immune system, collagen synthesis, and tensile strength.
Pressure Ulcer Prevention at Home
Treat your skin gently to help prevent pressure ulcers.
When washing, use a soft sponge or cloth.
Use moisturizing cream and skin protectants on your skin every day.
Clean and dry areas underneath your breasts and in your groin.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself. A: My name is Daniella Jade Lowe. I am a university graduate with a BA degree focused on History and Politics from the University of Bradford, England. Journalism and Politics are my passion. I am an emerging Journalist, Politician and Disability Advocate. My motive behind doing this was to be an advocate for people with disabilities. I am also marketing myself as an Access Consultant.
Q: What is your experience of life as a disabled person? A: I have advocated for Wheelchair Accessibility in Bermuda, by writing various articles for numerous publications on the subject. In fact, one of the reasons why I pursued further education and started my career in England was due to Wheelchair Accessibility. During Middle School and High School, I used a Garaventa StairTrac for navigating the school for classes. I have even represented Bermuda at the London 2012 Paralympic Games as a reporter for Bermuda’s Paralympian Jessica Lewis. During the games I also assessed the level of Wheelchair Accessibility at the event.
Q: How would you describe your disability? A: I was diagnosed with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus at birth. This condition is neurological. It comes with mobility issues and learning difficulties. As a result, I use a wheelchair for mobility.
Q: What is accessibility like where you live? A: Accessibility is terrible in Bermuda. Accessibility is much better in England.
Q: Where is your favourite place for accessibility & why? A: Bradford and Ilkley are great for Wheelchair Access because there are plenty of ramps, lifts, and flat surfaces. Leeds has Disability Confident companies too.
Q: What is one accessibility improvement that you would like to see? A: Travelling around London can be improved especially when using the Tube or the Underground. Gatwick Airport is better for WheelchairAccessibility than Heathrow Airport is.
First of all, you must register to vote, but only once you’re 18 years old or older on the day of the election. In Scotland and Wales you can vote at age 16 or over.
You can register online or by post. However, you cannot vote online in any elections.
Physically challenged voters and wheelchair users can vote in person because all polling stations are wheelchair accessible. They also have the option of voting by post. As a wheelchair user, while living in Bradford as a student, I voted in person. I’ve also voted in person at the St. John’s Anglican church in Ilkley.
Most politicians like to say ‘don’t vote, don’t complain.’
However the disabled community has every right to complain if they’ve asked for reasonable adjustments but get ignored every time.
Voting is about getting your voice heard. Voting is the starting point for political action. It’s about sharing political concerns, expectations and solutions. Disability voting is about tackling and dismantling oppressive systems of injustice. It is also about holding our politicians accountable. Voting should reimagine law enforcement, as well as reinforce disability justice, disability rights and disability advocacy.
The next step after campaigning and voting would be debating disability related issues. Canvassing is about relationship building. Canvassing will most likely highlight voters concerns. It is very difficult to debate sensitive subjects that you are passionate about like Euthanasia, without letting your emotions run high.
During my high school years, I had the privilege of participating in a political group called ‘Youth Parliament Bermuda.’ While on this team, I got a chance to debate various topics in the House of Assembly with other students. http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20070517/NEWS/305179917.
Netflix even has a disability revolution movie entitled, ‘Crip Camp’, which is a documentary about a groundbreaking summer camp which galvanizes a group of teens with disabilities, to help build a movement forging a new path towards greater equality. It also shows great impacts on disability rights and advocacy.
Also, voting and elections is about power. Purple is also associated with royalty. The reason why the colour purple is used to represent disability is because it’s about identity : https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-ouch-25767082. As a member of the Purple Vote Campaign, this is important to know.
Disability representation is important for inclusion, equality and identity. ‘DISABILITY VOTE MATTERS!’
Voting might be more difficult this year than at any other point in history due to global pandemic and lack of access to voting options. This is why we are raising awareness about voting resources, rights, and the importance of the disability vote. We need everyone involved to make positive change in our communities.
Wheelchair users in the UK are being overcharged indiscriminately by various taxi firms. According to previous articles printed by the Telegraph and Argus newspaper, this is a situation that has been recurring for over three years. Despite previous campaigns to end this madness, it has relentlessly continued.
As a disabled citizen, I personally have experienced this discrimination first hand. I lived in Bradford for 5 years, and ever since my first year, I’ve been charged from £5-£10, by taxi firms that I’ve used. So far, I’ve travelled with Girlington, Bradford Central and Douglas taxi firms. Girlington taxis charges me £7 each time, Douglas charges me £5 consistently and Bradford Central fluctuates between £5 and £7 depending on if it’s a weekday or weekend. Before receiving my electric wheelchair, I used to spend £14.28 a week on taxis.
On Tuesday, February 25, 2015, I was involved in a Student Union meeting at the University of Bradford and at this meeting; this cab discrimination issue was raised. During this meeting, everyone signed a petition against this display of exploitation. In this petition, everyone signed their name and what taxi firms they use in solidarity against this corruption.
The university’s student union planned a campaign in hopes to effect change against this malarkey. To highlight this issue, we created a presence at an event hosted by Turning Point (a disability group in Bradford) on Friday, 29 May, 2015 from 10:00 at Cottingley Cornerstones Centre, Littlelands, Cottingley, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 1AL. Transport was provided from UBU leaving at 10am from the University of Bradford and returning for 2pm (https://www.keighleynews.co.uk/news/12965951.keighley-group-takes-taxi-overcharging-campaign-district-wide/.)
The day went really well. I think it was clear that this is a real issue locally and something we can move forward with. There is still a lot of work to be done. The event also included speakers and a couple of presentations on why the law should be different on how taxi fares of several taxi firms are affecting the lives of disabled people. Also, there were workshops on why the law should be different, followed by provided lunch.
For Hackney Carriages (White taxi labelled cabs), there is legislation that all their cars are adapted and can take wheelchairs. There is also a ruling that says prices are fixed and cannot be changed for a wheelchair user.
However, a brilliant initiative was introduced during the meeting called iTaxis which is an app and an innovative solution revolutionising the method they book private hire taxis. It is not a ride sharing service like Uber. It works with licensed private hire operators.
A customer enters their journey details and iTaxis search their records of local private hire operators. They display the fares set by those operators for the journey. The customer can then pick an operator and pay by cash or card.
The address for the company is iTaxi247 Ltd, Town Hall, St George’s St., Hebden Bridge, HX7 7BY. It is registered in England. The Company Reg No is: 8849416. Find private hire vehicles (taxis) in your local area.
For more information about this app, you can download the app from Google Play Store onto your phone.
Again, if this happens, disabled citizens have been encouraged to report it. There is a lot to be done and we will now be moving forward with further action, but I feel the event represents a positive move forward.
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