Cardiff Bus must halt this policy, reset it, or fully fund a free alternative for excluded users.
Rejected
5 signatures
Cardiff bus' new scooter permit schemes in Wales ais actively stripping disabled people of their independence by banning vital mobility scooters that do not fit a strict 1000mm length framework. For many users with complex physical conditions, slightly larger stable scooters are a strict medical necessity, yet no fallback or alternative transport option has been offered if users are to be found rejected for this permit. This policy creates systemic, indirect discrimination
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Legal & Infrastructure Crisis The Equality Act 2010 mandates carrying standard wheelchairs up to 1200mm, yet mobility scooters face voluntary, exclusionary codes. Meanwhile, Cardiff Council acknowledges severe pavement defects, inability to access dropped curbs, curb mounted or illegally parked vehicles, making active travel impossible. Financial Hardship & Vulnerability VEST Transport cannot serve as a universal capital network. Arbitrary bus size bans force users to buy costly replacements out-of-pocket or surrender £19–£40+ weekly from Motability allowances. This pushes disabled people onto Class 3 road scooters on live roadways where many feel intensely vulnerable—ultimately trapping them at home. Our Demand Rigid size rules cannot override basic human freedom. Why push this scheme while the Senedd is in summer recess, dodging democratic oversight? Cardiff Bus must halt and reset this policy, the Senedd must intervene to fund a free alternative.