Mobility trade gets onboard with Disability Awareness Day Virtual as final call goes out to register
A raft of mobility suppliers have signed up to participate in Warrington Disability Partnership’s virtual Disability Awareness Day this October, providing companies with the chance to try out the new concept for free.
Held annually at the Walton Hall and Gardens in Warrington, Disability Awareness Day (DAD) has provided disability information, advice and guidance to thousands over the past 28 years.
Following the COVID-19 disruption forcing exhibitions across the UK to postpone and cancel this year, it looked a foregone conclusion that Warrington Disability Partnership’s 29th show in 2020 would not take place.
Refusing to let the pandemic stop its mission of providing support to the disability community, Dave Thompson MBE DL, CEO of Warrington Disability Partnership, along with the DAD, decided to take this year’s show digital.
Creating an entirely new interactive online platform, DAD Virtual is set to take place on 25 October and is expected to see thousands log on to enjoy the digital experience.
Visitors to the website will have the opportunity to explore a 3D rendered environment, replicating the look and feel of a typical DAD event. People will be able to browse the variety of charity and company stalls, pick up PDF leaflets, watch product demonstrations and even communicate with company representatives via a live chat feature.
Calling on the industry to help support the new show and the community of disabled people that rely on the Warrington charity for advice and guidance, Dave announced that companies could participate for free.
Speaking to THIIS last month, Dave explained his rationale behind giving mobility companies access to thousands of disabled people for free.
“We do not want to make the show prohibitive by putting a charge against it, particularly if companies are unsure if it will be a success and we fully appreciate how hard some businesses and charities have been hit over recent months by COVID-19,” he said.
“I am certain the concept and what we have delivered will be a winner so we are willing to let companies try it out for free themselves and see how they get on. If it works for them and they generate leads, the only thing we ask is to be considerate that we are a charity and make a donation, as well as consider carefully about exhibiting at our live event next July.”
According to the Warrington Disability Partnership Chief Executive, the opportunity has been taken up by a wide range of industry players.
So far, companies confirmed as taking part include Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions, Accora, AT Today Magazine, BAS (NW), Flexifoot, H&M Bathlifts, Recliner Chairs and Beds, Ross Care, Quantum Rehab, Safespaces, Smartbox Assistive Technology, TGA Mobility and Theraposture.
Now, Warrington Disability Partnership has put out a final call for companies interested in participating.
Registration will close on Friday 2 October.
“With just one week to go, registration will close on the 2nd, allowing our design team to build and fully test the site prior to the launch on Sunday 25th October,” confirmed Dave.
“We have also secured several top artists for our popular virtual arts marquee, including a couple of national TV stars and several international medal winners. There will even be a virtual display from the RAF Red Arrows so we are excited to deliver something very special to our community this year!”
To register or for more information, contact Dave Thompson at DaveThompson@disabilitypartnership.org.uk or call 01925 240064
