Getting out and about
Practical tips and services by Disability Together that help you explore your community with confidence.
Support for you
Practical tips and services by Disability Together that help you explore your community with confidence.
Support for you
Getting out and about should feel possible and enjoyable. Whether you fancy a stroll in nature or a trip into town to see friends, a little planning and the right support can make it easier. This page shares simple, practical tips and points you to Disability Together services that can help – Countryside Mobility for Tramper hire at accessible outdoor places, and Travelling with Confidence for free travel training on buses and trains. Start small, go at your own pace and use the links below to plan your next outing with confidence.
Who’s it for?
Anyone with a mobility impairment who wants to explore outdoor spaces across the South West.
How’s it delivered?
Borrow an all-terrain mobility scooter at more than 50 partner sites; book on the day or in advance. Staff give a short safety induction.
How much does it cost?
£3 annual membership plus a hire fee of about £2.50 per hour (prices vary by site).
Who’s it for?
Disabled and Deaf adults (16 +) in Devon who want practical skills and confidence to plan journeys and use buses and trains on their own.
How’s it delivered?
A free four‑session course: a journey‑planning workshop, a supported bus trip, a supported train trip and a wrap‑up session. Courses run monthly at accessible venues around the county, with trainers on hand for one‑to‑one help.
How much does it cost?
The training is fully funded by the Motability Foundation, so sessions are free; participants just pay their own fares on the practice journeys if they don’t have a concessionary pass.
Who’s it for?
People on an NHS elective-care waiting list who need advice while they wait for surgery or treatment about staying fit and healthy.
How’s it delivered?
Bespoke phone or email signposting to pain management, exercise, benefits and mental-health services, plus wellbeing check-ins every four weeks.
How much does it cost?
Free; funded by the NHS.
Who’s it for?
Deaf adults who use British Sign Language and would like peer support, outdoor activities and information delivered in their own language.
How’s it delivered?
Monthly BSL-led wellbeing walks at accessible outdoor spots, monthly peer-support groups with mindfulness and self-care tools, plus one-to-one information and advice by email, SMS, FaceTime or SignVideo.
How much does it cost?
Free to attend; funded by community grants and donations.
How we can help
Getting out and about should be an enjoyable part of life, not a source of stress. With a little preparation and the right support, you can explore your local area safely and confidently. Below are some practical tips to help you plan trips, choose accessible transport and make the most of every outing.
Yes. Booking in advance ensures a fully charged Tramper and trained staff are ready for you. Contact the venue of your choice once you have your membership.
Travelling with Confidence offers free travel training in small groups. You’ll have hands-on practice with a trainer and can bring a companion until you feel comfortable.
If you hold a concessionary bus pass, you travel free on most local buses in Devon. Always carry your pass and check bus company websites for details.
Look for information on the venue’s website under “Access” or “Facilities.” You can also call ahead to ask about parking, ramps, accessible toilets and Tramper routes.
For outdoor trips, plan for rain or wind by wearing layers and waterproofs. If conditions become unsafe, your Tramper hire venue or Travelling with Confidence trainer will advise on cancelling or rescheduling.
Yes – bringing a friend, family member or support worker on early trips can boost your confidence and help with any additional needs.
Carry water, snacks, any medications or equipment you use, a fully charged phone or power pack, and a simple first-aid kit if needed.
Choose the right service – Countryside Mobility for off-road exploration or Travelling with Confidence for public-transport skills – and follow the links above to learn more and sign up.
Need someone to listen right now? Our peer-support line offers friendly, trained listeners by phone or video. They can help give you the confidence to get out and about and stay active.
Plain-English guides to managing stress, finding crisis help and understanding your rights – and how staying active contributes to good mental health.