Shopmobility Manchester

Date of visit: October 2024

I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: a hidden impairment, accessing toilets and moving around.

I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet, hidden impairment, powerchair, toilet with hoist, toilets, walking aid, wheelchair

Overall Rating

On my travels around Manchester, I spoke to many people (I tend to do that) but nobody left a greater impact than Gav who runs Shopmobility at the Arndale Centre. We initially got speaking as I was having a bit of trouble accessing the Changing Places toilet, so I made sure to swing by and thank him for his help. We spoke for well over half an hour and learned we had much in common. I also learned how great a guy Gavin is. In addition to providing the hire of mobility devices for use in the shopping centre and the city itself, it's filled with enough geeky memorabilia to fill the set of The Big Bang Theory several times over. However, these items have a greater purpose, their sale directly funds the operation of the Shopmobility Centre. They also sell RADAR keys, walking sticks, blue badge holders and so much else. If you're a fan of Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, Stranger Things or none of those things consider dropping in. Please keep in mind that due to staffing this location only operates 11:00-18:00 Thursday to Saturday. Gav mentioned that they're always looking for volunteers and with enough support, they may be able to be open on additional days.

Disabled Access In and Around

Given the nature of the store, it would be terribly ironic if it was inaccessible. I'm glad to say that's not the case. All on one level, with automatic doors and appropriate spacing for most if not all mobility devices, access has clearly been given a lot of thought. As the desks are immediately visible, there is no real need for directional signage. The signage on the exterior of the building is clear. This location is also recognised as dementia friendly.

Parking & Transport

Located in a large shopping centre, public parking is provided within Arndale Car Park. At the time of writing, there is no charge for blue badge holders - provided they park in an accessible parking bay. The parking facilities are available 24/7. The 59, 112, 117, 118, 119, 135, and 163 bus services operate in this area, stopping just outside of The Unicorn on Church Street. The Market Street Metrolink is also close by, and as all trams are accessible, with ramps on either side of the platform, this would be my preferred way to travel

Accessible Toilets

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There are no public toilets at this Shopmobility branch, but there is a Changing Places toilet directly across from the entrance. This toilet requires a RADAR key, and you need to press the buzzer to gain access. These facilities are not operated or managed by Shopmobility; any issues should be addressed to the Arndale Centre.

Staff

Sadly I can only rate a maximum of five stars, I would gladly double that rating if I could. Gav was extremely helpful, and such a genuinely nice guy. He was happy to advise of the devices available for hire, provide guidance on what would be appropriate for use and actually cared about me as a person. It was like catching up with an old friend.

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