It’s been ONE YEAR since SMA UK proudly launched our SMArt Moves grants, an initiative made possible through the generous support of The Motability Foundation.
Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen the impact that this grant has had on the SMA community, helping individuals access essential mobility equipment and wheelchairs that dramatically improve their quality of life and independence.
As we mark one year since the launch of SMArt Moves, we wanted to highlight just one of the many individuals whose lives have been positively transformed by the grant. Jemma, a Maths teacher from London with SMA Type 3, shared her story with us:
Jemmas Story
“My name is Jemma, and I have SMA, type 3. I lost the ability to walk and stand approximately 10 years ago. I’ve been a Maths teacher for 18 years now. I rely on my highly bespoke Paravan PR30 electric wheelchair not only to get around but also to carry out my job to the best of my ability. This particular wheelchair has a lift function, tilt function, seat slide function, and other features that are essential to me being as independent as possible. My current one was getting towards the end of its lifespan—parts were going wrong, and it was starting to fall apart… I knew it needed replacing.
I would be purchasing my new wheelchair through Matt James at Precision Rehab Ltd. I have purchased from him before, and he is very experienced—he understands my needs and provides excellent aftercare with the wheelchair, which is so important when owning a chair of this value. However, this particular wheelchair is extremely expensive, and it isn’t something I could ever afford on my own.
Fortunately, I was able to secure most of the funding from Access to Work, as well as my employer, my local authority’s personal wheelchair budget, and The Joseph Patrick Trust… but I was still short. I applied for a SMArt Moves grant for the remaining part of the funding, and I couldn’t believe it when I was approved! It was the last piece of the puzzle and meant that I was able to go ahead and order my new chair!
The whole process, from first applying for funding to delivery of my new chair, took about 8 months.
I cannot thank SMArt Moves enough—without it, I wouldn’t have my new chair, and I am so incredibly grateful! Thank you so, so much!”
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey
Jemma’s story is just one example of the impact of SMArt Moves in its first year. We are committed to continuing this work for the SMA community, with applications for SMArt Moves grants open until September 2025. Over the next two years, we will continue providing grants for powered and manual wheelchairs and other mobility equipment, helping more people like Jemma gain and maintain independence. If you or someone you know could benefit from the SMArt Moves grant, get more information and apply here! Thank you to everyone who has supported SMArt Moves over the past year—together, we are making a real difference in the lives of the SMA community.
