Mobility charity's iconic 3-wheeled wheelchair to feature as exhibit in new Design Museum

Officially opening its doors to the public on Thursday 24th November, the Design Museum is regarded by many as one of the world’s leading contemporary design and architecture museums and has long been an arena, which has showcased the very best and brightest of innovation and design.

Motivation's Rough Terrain wheelchair will sit within the free Design Maker User exhibition, a collection exploring 20^th and 21^st century modern designer’s take on these three connected elements. A perfect setting for Motivation’s most iconic wheelchair, as not only does the charity consider the unique needs of each wheelchair user, it also takes care to ensure that wheelchairs can be locally assembled, fitted and adjusted in-country.

Standing by their philosophy of providing the right wheelchair in the right way, for the last 25 years Bristol-based charity Motivation has been putting the individual at the heart of wheelchair design. The Rough Terrain wheelchair is robust enough to withstand the often challenging environments found in developing countries. The simplicity of this design and decision to use three wheels instead of four has made all the difference as its extended chassis provides better stability for the wheelchair user.

However, a Motivation wheelchair stands for so much more than simply a vehicle to transport someone from A to B. The charity believe it has the power to both empower and instill confidence to help disabled people in developing countries to lead active, fulfilled and happy lives. Motivation's Co-Founder David Constantine MBE, also a Design Museum Trustee, provides his personal insight as to the importance of considered and effective design from the perspective of a wheelchair user:

"I believe that good design is all about improving people’s quality of life. For me, thoughtful design and engineering has enabled me to travel, go to work and be independent. I think everyone should have that opportunity – no matter where they are in the world."

David Constantine will feature in 'The Brits Who Designed the Modern World' on BBC2, Saturday 26th November at 9.30pm as part of the BBC2 Artsnight series.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Joanna Hall email: hall@motivation.org.uk tel: 01275 464012

Madelaine Turner email: turner@motivation.org.uk tel: 01275 464012

Notes to Editors:

• Motivation is the leading provider of quality products, training and support for wheelchair users in low-income countries. Working with local, national and international partners, Motivation has been transforming the lives of people with mobility disabilities around the world for over 25 years.

• Without mobility, millions of disabled people in the developing world are unable to leave their homes, go to school or go to work. Many are left to lie on the floor; many more die from preventable complications. It doesn’t have to be this way. The right wheelchair, with the right support, is life- changing.

• Motivation’s goal is now to put the wheels in motion for 100,000 disabled people annually by 2017.
• To read more about Motivation’s work please see our latest Impact Report