ProActive_Autumn_2012 by GM Coachwork

PRO ACTIVE GM COACHWORK QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

Luxury as standard

AUTUMN 2012

I Love my

Volkswagen Caravelle MONTEREY Luxury Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Lowered floor

Class leading 59” access height

Seats 4 plus wheelchair passenger

Drive from wheelchair vehicles giving you total independence

Volkswagen Caravelle NEVADA

Volkswagen Caravelle COLORADO

Rear access Remote operated tailgate and ramp Rear lowering suspension Lowered floor Class leading access height 59”

Side access Remote operated doors and lift Optional air levelling suspension Lowered floor Three seat rear bench

Citroen Berlingo DUO Lowered floor Remote power tailgate and ramp Drive from or travel up front Lowering rear suspension Interchangeable driver & passenger seats

Maria was one of the first customers to take delivery. Here she tells the story of life with the Duo - Page 11

07 WHEELCHAIR HOISTS Gary’s guide to your choices

12 BASKETBALL Get active and get fit

Call 0845 0760962 www.gmcoachwork.co.uk 01_cover 16-1 GM ClassyNew.indd AD_A4_2012_V1.indd 1

07/11/2012 22:45

14 ANGLING

Fishing for a better future

27/11/2012 20:29

GM STAFF

MEET THE TEAM Gary Albinson Mobility Adaptations

Jan McCullar Receptionist

LIKES Everything in its place The 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love ballads

LIKES France My pussycats

DISLIKES Incompetence Sitting still

DISLIKES Cold weather Baked beans Lee Jones Minibus Sales Specialist

Lucy Duller Customer Liaison

LIKES My dog Rugby

LIKES Chicken and asparagus pie Sky diving

DISLIKES Hair shampoo My diary

DISLIKES Mushrooms Heavy metal music

Caoney Morgan Motability Sales Administrator

Tracey Bull Sales Support

LIKES Holidays Horse riding

LIKES Laughing Cats

DISLIKES Baked beans Rain

DISLIKES Rudeness Twiglets Roy Hayter Used Sales Specialist

Stephen Murphy Sales Manager

LIKES Skiing Motorsport

LIKES Cycling Chopping up wood

DISLIKES Water Cricket

DISLIKES Bad driving The rain

Agata Owston Minibus Sales Administrator

Simon Ballamy Motability Adviser

LIKES Chocolate Being pregnant

LIKES Steak Football

DISLIKES Cats Winter

DISLIKES Mustard Rain Paul Barber Minibus Sales Specialist LIKES Football Coastal walking

LIKES Eating out Huge DIY jobs

DISLIKES Boats Long distance driving

DISLIKES Olives Christmas

02 // PROACTIVE Autumn 2012

02-03_Contents.indd 2

David Christie Motability Adviser

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

25/11/2012 21:41

CONTENTS

News 04-05 // Gary’s guide to hoists 07-09 // Duo’s first customer 11 // Wheelchair basketball 12-13 // Fishing for a better future 14 // Toolbox 15

£200 OFF

12 RECEIVE A LIMITED EDITION GM MUG Whee lchair access vehicle Acce ssible s minib uses Mobili ty adapta tions Used vehic les WAV hire Vehic le modi ficati ons CALL US ON

GM_25 Mug

02-03_Contents.indd 3

www. gmcoa 1

chwor k.co.u

2 22:32

Mathew Smith, Editor mathew.smith@gmcoachwork.co.uk

PROACTIVE is published every quarter by GM Coachwork Ltd and distributed free of charge.

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

EW.indd

15/11/201

GM Coachwork Ltd, Teign Valley, Trusham, Newton Abbot, TQ13 0NX T: 01626 853050 E: sales@gmcoachwork.co.uk

01626 853 050

design_N

PROACTIVE Autumn 2012 // 03

25/11/2012 21:42

GM COACHWORK NEWS

Looking for new or used conversion parts? If you’re looking for parts for your wheelchair vehicle remember GM hold a huge range in stock including restraints, seats, reels, ramps and virtually anything you can think of. The full parts catalogue is available on our website, in six volumes. Go to

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk/parts. html and click on any of the volumes to read it on screen. Mike and Jon look after the parts department so give them a ring on 01626 855055 or email mike.stockman@gmcoachwork. co.uk, jon.scott@gmcoachwork. co.uk

Say hello to Kayleigh Kayleigh is our newest member of the team and will take over from Caoney as Motability Sales Administrator. A local girl from Torquay, Kayleigh used to work for Enterprise Car Hire after studying for a Business Administration degree at Plymouth University. She loves pasta and chocolate (though not together), hates peas and loves going to Florida.

A special thanks to Gary

My son William and myself would like to thank this gentleman very much for his help and advice today duri ng our visit to GM Coachwork. He was kind, calm and extremely consider ate of my needs as a driver who is new to WAVs and patiently answered our many questions and concerns. I arrived feeling extremely nervous and doubtful if I really wanted a WAV but left confident this was the best choice for me at this stage in my life. Nothing was too much trou ble and his confident handling of the necessary adjustments was enco uraging giving me assurance, even though I was nervous, that driving was something I could achieve with the help I was receiving. We all have different histories whe n we walk (lol) wheel through your door and I know, because of mine, I am a difficult ‘client’ at times. Toda y I became angry and upset at time s because of the emotional transitio n of loss I have had to ride recently and Gary was nothing but kind and considerate at every stage. Both William and I were very imp ressed at Gary’s knowledge base and intuitive approach to solving prob lems but above all I have to thank him for his kindness. People like him make being disabled that much easi er so thank you. Thank you also to John our driver from Bude who was also gracious and respectful reassuring us how goo d Gary was at his job even before we arrived. He was right. We were given a very warm welcome by everyone on site as well and so I really wanted to pass on our than ks. Looking forward to the final fitting ...whenever that may be Kind Regards to all the team .... and a special thanks to Gary.

Emma and William

04 // PROACTIVE Autumn 2012

04-05_FT_NEWS-APPROVED.indd 12

All change for the Mobility Roadshow 2013 One of the biggest events in the calendar, The Mobility Roadshow, is moving to a new venue. Having spent the last 3 years at Peterborough the organisers thought it was time to move across the other side of the country to give people in the west of England a chance! So it’s off to Telford we go. We’re delighted to be exhibiting once again. For more information, dates and times go to www. mobilityroadshow.co.uk

Gary www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

25/11/2012 21:39

£200 off the Blaze Until 31 December we’re taking £200 off the best–selling Blaze. Order yours through Motability and the advance payment of £995 is slashed to just £795. The Blaze VTR comes with metallic paint, ABS, power steering, CD radio and air conditioning as standard. Other Blaze specifications available include Plus and XTR. For more information call us on 01626 853050 and ask for Dave, Ashley or Simon.

Tell us your story! If you’ve an interesting story we want to hear from you! ProActive is looking to write about your story and how your adapted vehicle has helped your day to day life. Perhaps you’ve been on holiday or perhaps it has opened up opportunities to engage in a sport or pastime. Whatever it is... we’d love to hear from you. In the first instance please write to the Editor, Mat Smith, at mathew.smith@gmcoachwork.co.uk.

Christmas Opening Hours GM will be open for business, up to and including, Friday 21 December. We will be open again on 2 January 2013. Our normal office hours apply - Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.30pm.

ur Go to o see o t e it webs of the o e id av Blaze.

Going up! If you’re vehicle has a lift it could need servicing by law. All public service vehicles fitted with a lift need certificating by law. Similarly, Motability advise all their customers to have annual lift services on their vehicles. Kevin Partridge is GM’s own in-house lift engineer.

ts gen re a n, a GM Rico iff, for atcl R , PLS n, AMF u Bra

If you’re concerned your lift may need a service, or to book a service, call Kevin direct on 07739 979014

COME ON IN...JOIN US! FACEBOOK facebook.com/gmcoachworkltd TWITTER gmcoachwork01 YOU TUBE youtube.com/gmcoachworkUK

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

04-05_FT_NEWS-APPROVED.indd 13

PROACTIVE Autumn 2012 // 05

25/11/2012 21:39

AutoAdapt_ProActive_Layout 1 14/11/2012 11:14 Page 1

INVENTIONS FOR QUALITY OF LIFE Braun Vista Lift

6-Way Power Base

Easy wheelchair access into your vehicle

Transfer from your wheelchair to the drivers seat

The Autoadapt 6-Way Base is an electronic seat desgned for internal transfer from your wheelchair to drivers seat.

When not in use the split platform is stowed below the vehicle’s windows, providing good visibility for passengers and driver.

The seat is operated by three switches to rotate it, adjust the height and move the seat back and forward from the steering wheel.

n n n n n n n

When seated at the wheel you use the vehicle’s original seat belt. The Autoadapt 6-Way Base is crash tested according to global and European standards for vehicles.

Platform stows below the vehicle’s windows Illuminated platform Bridging feature simplifies boarding from pavement Durable hand-held control box New rigid handrails for wheelchair users and standees Improved roll stop for extra stability Designed for side or rear door installation

To guarantee your safety all Autoadapt and Braun products are designed and tested according to current directives and safety standards.

Autoadapt UK Ltd Unit 1, Windsor Industrial Estate, Rupert Street, Aston, Birmingham B7 4PR t: 0121 333 5170 e: sales@autoadapt.co.uk

For more information visit www.autoadapt.co.uk 06-09_FT_Hoist.indd 6

25/11/2012 20:45

AutoAdapt_ProActive_Layout 1 14/11/2012 11:14 Page 1

INVENTIONS FOR QUALITY OF LIFE

WHEELCHAIR HOISTS

Braun Vista Lift

6-Way Power Base

Easy wheelchair access into your vehicle

Transfer from your wheelchair to the drivers seat

Gary’s guide to wheelchair hoists Brig-Ayd 100-150kg

There’s a wide range of hoists on the market with something for everyone. Gary, our Adaptations Adviser, guides you through the options.

hoosing the best hoist for you will depend on numerous factors but rest assured there will be a solution. When choosing a hoist you need to consider the car it ill be installed in, the weight of the wheelchair or scooter and whether you need a fully automatic system or one with a degree of manual operation.

Up to 40kg

The Autoadapt 6-Way Base is an electronic seat desgned for internal transfer from your wheelchair to drivers seat.

When not in use the split platform is stowed below the vehicle’s windows, providing good visibility for passengers and driver.

The seat is operated by three switches to rotate it, adjust the height and move the seat back and forward from the steering wheel.

n n n n n n n

When seated at the wheel you use the vehicle’s original seat belt. The Autoadapt 6-Way Base is crash tested according to global and European standards for vehicles.

The most popular lightweight hoists are provided by three manufacturers Elap, Autochair and Brig-Ayd. Both the Autochair and Brig-Ayd are available in either 2 or 4 functions. Two function means the hoist turns manually in and out of the vehicle with automatic raising and lowering of the hoist arm. Four function means it is fully automatic, in and out of the vehicle and raising and lowering of the hoist arm. The hoists available are the Elap V40, Autochair

Minihoist and Brig-Ayd Minihoist.

in 2 or 4 function and with the added option of a wireless remote.

75kg to 80kg

Specialist Hoists 100 to 200kg

In this weight bracket the hoists are cable operated with two on offer. The Brig-Ayd 75kg and Autochair 80kg, both available with 2 or 4 function.

100 to 150kg With this weight category the hoists are now boom operated, meaning a solid boom arm connects to the chair to pick it up, as opposed to a cable. Two types are available in this bracket from Autochair or Brig-Ayd

The Autochair Olympian offers the maximum flexibility and adjustment for a hoist. Its fully adjustable boom arm means it makes light work of manoeuvring a large wheelchair or scooter into any shape of boot. The Brig-Ayd Telescopic 120 does a similar job and features a telescopic arm making it perfect for getting power chairs in and out of estate cars. Continues on page 08

Customer contribution when fitted to a brand new Motability vehicle Mini hoists (up to 40kg)

£200 to £500

Mini hoists (75kg to 80kg)

£300 to £650

Mini hoists (100kg to 150kg)

£350 to £500

Specialist hoists (100kg to 200kg)

£1770 upwards

To guarantee your safety all Autoadapt and Braun products are designed and tested according to current directives and safety standards.

Autoadapt UK Ltd Unit 1, Windsor Industrial Estate, Rupert Street, Aston, Birmingham B7 4PR t: 0121 333 5170 e: sales@autoadapt.co.uk

For more information visit www.autoadapt.co.uk 06-09_FT_Hoist.indd 6-7

Autochair 40-80kg

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

Brig-Ayd 75kg

Autochair Olympian

PROACTIVE Autumn 2012 //07

26/11/2012 20:57

WHEELCHAIR HOISTS

AutoAdapt

AutoAdapt offer the Carolift range of hoists spanning 40kg to 180kg.

Carolift 40 (40kg)

Carolift 325 (82kg)

The Carolift 40 features a bendable hoist arm providing an almost endless variety of positions to load the wheelchair.

A two piece hoist ideal for saloon car boots featuring a detachable arm for easy stowage. The swing out arm is operated manually.

lift 4 Caro

Caro

0kg

lift 3

Garyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide to wheelchair hoists

Caro

lift 9

0-14

lift Caro

0kg

g 180k

Carolift 90 and 140 (90/140kg)

Carolift 6000/6900 (180kg)

Ideal for cars with a lipped entrance, the Carolift 90/140 is a 4 function hoist designed for heavier chairs. It takes up a relatively small space in the boot leaving a clear view through the rear window.

Designed to load from the side of the vehicle, the 6000/6900 boasts two elbows on the main arm which means it can load from the pavement. Ideal for power chairs.

08 // PROACTIVE Autumn 2012

06-09_FT_Hoist.indd 8

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

25/11/2012 20:45

Unw

DOCK N LOCK

速

A single docking system that enables wheelchair-users to dock and drive their vehicle from their wheelchair. Successfully tested to secure powerchairs weighing up to 200kg. Dual-locking mechanism provides maximum protection and easy docking from any angle. Compact docking module offers great manoeuvrability for a wide range of wheelchair models. Low-profile wheelchair brackets provide maximum ground clearance.

FIND OUT MORE

To view our video showing Dock N Lock in use, or to see a complete list of compatible wheelchair brackets, or for more information, please visit our website:

www.unwin-safety.com 06-09_FT_Hoist.indd 9 Unwin_A4_Advertorial_Final.indd 1

25/11/2012 10:26 20:45 14/11/2012

Used_Page_spring_Layout 1 28/03/2012 11:57 Page 1

USED WHEELCHAIR VEHICLES USED WHEELCHAIRPART-EX VEHICLES WELCOME MECHANICAL WARRANTY FINANCE ARRANGED MECHANICAL WARRANTY

PART-EX WELCOME NATIONWIDE DELIVERY NATIONWIDE DELIVERY

FINANCE ARRANGED 5

£6,99

£4,85

£6,99

£4,79

2005 CITROEN BERLINGO 1.4 petrol, 2 owners, 38,000 miles, lightweight ramp, lowered floor, 2005saloon CITROEN BERLINGO one rear seat (J13255)

1.4 petrol, 2 owners, 37,000 miles,

2007 FIAT DOBLO 1.4 petrol, twin sliding doors, lowered floor, lightweight ramp, FIATrear DOBLO air 2007 con, one seat (J11124) 1.4 petrol, twin sliding doors,

lowered ramp, lowered floor, 95 95floor, lightweight ramp, £7,4lightweight £8air,9con, one rear seat (J11124) one rear saloon seat (J12597)

£3,40

5 £13,49

2003 MERCEDES VANEO 2006 CHRYSLER GRAND 1.6 petrol, 57000 miles, lightweight VOYAGER 2.8 turbo diesel, ramp,2003 low floor, one rearVANEO saloon auto, up-front wheelchair MERCEDES 2010 PEUGEOT EXPERT seats 1.6 (J11088) petrol, 57000 miles, lightweightpassenger, side access ramp, two TEEPEE 1.6HDi, lowered floor, ramp, low floor, one rear saloon rear lightweight ramp, 27000 miles, one saloon seats (J13251) seats (J11088)

5 £29,99

£9,995

rear saloon seat, twin front passenger seat (J12347)

5 £12,99

5 £36,99

2007 CITROEN C8 AUTO 35,000 miles, auto, electric powered door, lowered floor, 2008 CITROEN CIRRUS three rear saloonC8 seats (J12365)

2008 VW CARAVELLE COLORADO DRIVE-FROM WHEELCHAIR 130bhp TDI, auto, only 9000 miles, our own low floor conversion. Save nearly 2003 VW CARAVELLE COLORADO £10k on newWHEELCHAIR price (J11962) DRIVE-FROM

17,000 miles, auto, 2 rear saloon seats, 995spec, full width ramp, 19,good £lowered floor, (J12589)

130bhp TDI, auto, only 9000 miles, our own low floor conversion. Save over £10k on new (J11962)

£7,20

5 £10,49

£7,20

2008 VW CARAVELLE 2.0TDi, auto. 37000 miles, seats six, side access lift.BERLINGO (J13592) 2010 CITROEN

2008 RENAULT KANGOO 38,000 miles, lightweight ramp, lowRENAULT floor, one rear saloon seat, 2008 KANGOO (J11823) 38,000 miles, lightweight ramp,

1.6 HDI, our demonstrator, lightweight ramp, lowered floor, one rear saloon seat (J10193)

low floor, one rear saloon seat, (J11823)

ROY’S STAR CAR

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS VEHICLES WHEELCHAIR ACCESS VEHICLES

2006 FIAT DOBLO HIGH ROOF 1.3 multijet diesel, 32000 miles, manual, 4 seats (J12206)

2009 CITROEN C8 2.0 HDi, 11000 miles, manual, lightweight ramp, 2 rear seats, (J12268)

ROY’S STAR CAR

£6,995

£15,995

2004 FIAT TD diesel, 670001.6miles, 4 seats (J11193) 2010 DUCATO CITROEN2.0 BERLINGO BLAZE HDi,manual, 38000 miles, manual, 2 rear seats (J10193)

£5,750 £10,495

2006 FIAT DOBLO2.4 HIGH ROOF 1.3 multijet diesel, 32000 miles,(J13253) manual, 4 seats (J12206) 2004 TOYOTA PREVIA petrol, 48000 miles, automatic, 4 seats

£6,995 £6,995

2004 RENAULT KANGOO 1.6 petrol, 15000 miles, auto, 52000 one rearmiles, saloon seat, seat two side doors ( J8240) £5,500 2010 CITROEN BERLINGO BLAZE Our ex-demo, 1.6HDI, 1 rear (J10193) £10,495 2006 RENAULT MASTER 2.5DCi, 38000 miles, manual, 5 seats, full width lightweight ramp (J11602) £8,750

2008 RENAULT KANGOO AUTO 1.6 petrol, 20,000 miles, auto, 1 rear seat (J11659) 2005 TOYOTA HI-ACE 2.5 diesel, 58000 miles. 4 seats, manual. (J11964)

£8,250

£6,500

DRIVE-FROM WHEELCHAIR VEHICLES DRIVE-FROM WHEELCHAIR VEHICLES

2008 VW CARAVELLE COLORADO Low floor conversion, side lift, 9000 miles, (J11962)

£29,995

2010 VW CARAVELLE COLORADO Low floor conversion, side lift, 9000 miles, (J11962)

£36,995

2009 MERCEDES SPRINTER 2.2TDi, 4 seats, remote operated tailgate and ramp (J11852)

£21,995

2008 CHRYSLER GRAND VOYAGER Up front passenger, side acess ramp, 24,000 miles ( J13609) RENAULT MASTER 2.5TDi, auto, 4 seats, door and Ricon lift (J11653) Visit 2007 www.gmcoachwork.co.uk forremote morerear vehicles 2008 RENAULT KANGOO 1.6 petrol, 3000 miles, auto, remote tailgate and ramp (J10670)

£6,495

£17,995

£15,995 £14,995

E-

DRIV

FROM 2007 FIAT DOBLO 1.3 JTD 2009 MERCEDES Only 25000 miles, manual, SPRINTER full with ramp, lowered DRIVE-FROM floor, one rear seat. 2.2HDI, 19000 miles, (J13708) remote rear lift, side door. Great value

Our stock is

All used vehicles areare fully serviced and All used vehicles fully servicedwith withatatleast least99months months MOT MOT and come with a full mechanical and wheelchair equipment safety check come with a full mechanical and wheelchair equipment safety check OVER 40 VEHICLES ININ STOCK OVER 40 VEHICLES STOCK- OPEN - OPEN66DAYS DAYSA A WEEK WEEK

Our stockall is the changing changing allifthe time so you time so if you can’t find what can’t find what you’re looking for your looking for give me a call. give me a call.

TELEPHONE 0845 076 TELEPHONE 076 0963 0963 visitwww.gmcoachwork.co.uk www.gmcoachwork.co.uk ororvisit

10-11_FT Duo.indd 10

25/11/2012 21:03

Used_Page_spring_Layout 1 28/03/2012 11:57 Page 1

CUSTOMER PROFILE

USED WHEELCHAIR VEHICLES USED WHEELCHAIRPART-EX VEHICLES WELCOME MECHANICAL WARRANTY FINANCE ARRANGED MECHANICAL WARRANTY

PART-EX WELCOME NATIONWIDE DELIVERY NATIONWIDE DELIVERY

FINANCE ARRANGED 5

£6,99

£4,85

£6,99

£4,79

2005 CITROEN BERLINGO 1.4 petrol, 2 owners, 38,000 miles, lightweight ramp, lowered floor, 2005saloon CITROEN BERLINGO one rear seat (J13255)

1.4 petrol, 2 owners, 37,000 miles,

2007 FIAT DOBLO 1.4 petrol, twin sliding doors, lowered floor, lightweight ramp, FIATrear DOBLO air 2007 con, one seat (J11124) 1.4 petrol, twin sliding doors,

lowered ramp, lowered floor, 95 95floor, lightweight ramp, £7,4lightweight £8air,9con, one rear seat (J11124) one rear saloon seat (J12597)

£3,40

5 £13,49

5 £29,99

£9,995

rear saloon seat, twin front passenger seat (J12347)

5 £12,99

5 £36,99

2007 CITROEN C8 AUTO 35,000 miles, auto, electric powered door, lowered floor, 2008 CITROEN CIRRUS three rear saloonC8 seats (J12365)

17,000 miles, auto, 2 rear saloon seats, 995spec, full width ramp, 19,good £lowered floor, (J12589)

130bhp TDI, auto, only 9000 miles, our own low floor conversion. Save over £10k on new (J11962)

£7,20

2008 VW CARAVELLE 2.0TDi, auto. 37000 miles, seats six, side access lift.BERLINGO (J13592) 2010 CITROEN

2008 RENAULT KANGOO 38,000 miles, lightweight ramp, lowRENAULT floor, one rear saloon seat, 2008 KANGOO (J11823) 38,000 miles, lightweight ramp,

low floor, one rear saloon seat, (J11823)

ROY’S STAR CAR

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS VEHICLES WHEELCHAIR ACCESS VEHICLES

2006 FIAT DOBLO HIGH ROOF 1.3 multijet diesel, 32000 miles, manual, 4 seats (J12206)

2009 CITROEN C8 2.0 HDi, 11000 miles, manual, lightweight ramp, 2 rear seats, (J12268)

ROY’S STAR CAR

£6,995

£15,995

2004 FIAT TD diesel, 670001.6miles, 4 seats (J11193) 2010 DUCATO CITROEN2.0 BERLINGO BLAZE HDi,manual, 38000 miles, manual, 2 rear seats (J10193)

£5,750 £10,495

2006 FIAT DOBLO2.4 HIGH ROOF 1.3 multijet diesel, 32000 miles,(J13253) manual, 4 seats (J12206) 2004 TOYOTA PREVIA petrol, 48000 miles, automatic, 4 seats

£6,995 £6,995

2008 RENAULT KANGOO AUTO 1.6 petrol, 20,000 miles, auto, 1 rear seat (J11659) 2005 TOYOTA HI-ACE 2.5 diesel, 58000 miles. 4 seats, manual. (J11964)

DRIVE-FROM WHEELCHAIR VEHICLES DRIVE-FROM WHEELCHAIR VEHICLES

2008 VW CARAVELLE COLORADO Low floor conversion, side lift, 9000 miles, (J11962)

£29,995

2010 VW CARAVELLE COLORADO Low floor conversion, side lift, 9000 miles, (J11962)

£36,995

2009 MERCEDES SPRINTER 2.2TDi, 4 seats, remote operated tailgate and ramp (J11852)

£21,995

£6,495

£8,250

£6,500

£17,995

£15,995 £14,995

E-

Our stockall is the changing changing allifthe time so you time so if you can’t find what can’t find what you’re looking for your looking for give me a call. give me a call.

TELEPHONE 0845 076 TELEPHONE 076 0963 0963 visitwww.gmcoachwork.co.uk www.gmcoachwork.co.uk ororvisit

10-11_FT Duo.indd 10-11

DRIV

Our stock is

y DUO!”

£7,20

5 £10,49

1.6 HDI, our demonstrator, lightweight ramp, lowered floor, one rear saloon seat (J10193)

“I love m

Maria Domenic was one of the first customers to take delivery of a Duo. She tells ProActive how it has changed her life and how her Jack Russell absolutely loves it!

aria was diagnosed with osteoarthritis three years ago and is now wheelchair bound. She used to have a Vauxhall Corsa but sold it when she lost the strength in her back and it became too painful to drive. Her disability is further compounded by a degenerative disc problem. When she sold her Corsa she asked Motabilty about drive-from wheelchair vehicles. Given her requirements they suggested she get in touch with GM. A phone call to GM’s Dave Christie suggested the Citroen Berlingo Duo would give her all she needed. “I like GM and the way they work” Maria said. “I needed a car where, because of my condition, I didn’t have to open the doors and the Duo ticked all my boxes.” As the first customer to take delivery of a Duo Maria’s fallen in love with it. “It’s a marvellous car. It’s comfortable to drive with excellent vision through the windscreen and the rear window.” Maria added how she likes how easy it is to get in and out. “It’s great to be able to press a button and guide myself straight into

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

the driving position. It has given me the greatest freedom to do what for most people would be simple things, such as going to the shops and visiting friends and family.” Maria reckons the best features are the remote opening tailgate and ramp and the flat floor - a flat floor is rare in a compact drive-from vehicle. One of the safety features Maria says is a godsend is the Firetrace system which is a fire extinguisher system for the engine bay. “I’m really made up with that. As a wheelchair driver you can’t quickly get out of a car in the event of fire but with this system I’ve got real peace of mind”. As a matter of course GM fit Firetrace as standard to all Duo’s supplied through Motability. Another feature of the Duo Maria has found useful is interchangeable seats. “My friend Chris drove us to the garden centre as I didn’t fancy driving that day. It was really easy. She moved the seats over, released the hand controls and it all took less than a minute. It also meant I got to ride in the passenger position which I found really comfortable.” Maria’s 10 year old Jack Russell

I’d like to thank everyone at GM for coming up with such a brilliant car dog Jaxs also loves it. He sits in the passenger seat when they go out and cries when its time to get out,” says Maria. “I’m delighted I chose the Duo. I like GM and the way they work. The staff were brilliant. When Gary was going over my hand controls I told him he should be a driving instructor. He was so patient. He put me at ease and boosted my confidence no end. I would like to thank everyone at GM who came up with such a brilliant car.” For more information on the DUO call GM on 0800 3169327 or email sales@ gmcoachwork.co.uk

PROACTIVE Autumn 2012 //11

27/11/2012 20:06

FEATURE: Wheelchair Basketball

40,000 people

100

countries

sport

Wheelchair basketball embraces a wide range of disabilities bring people together to focus on their ability, not disability

ometimes all it takes is one shot: from rehabilitation for injured World War II Veterans to centre stage at the Paralympic Games, wheelchair basketball continues to push forward –now part of physical therapy, social recreation, and an elite sport. This year sees British Wheelchair Basketball (BWB) celebrate 30 years as the governing body for all levels of the sport, from grassroots through to the Standard Life GB Men and Women’s National Teams. With wheelchair basketball embracing a wide range of disabilities including paraplegia, spina bifida, amputees, brittle bones, cerebral palsy, and multiple

12 // PROACTIVE Autumn 2012

12-13_FT_Basketball-APPROVED.indd 12

sclerosis, BWB also welcomes ablebodied players into the BWB National League (Divisions 1-4) as well as both The Lord’s Taverners Junior League and the Women’s League – the biggest of their kind in the world – opening the game up to friends and family. And with over 130 teams from clubs all across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland filling the nation’s sports halls there are plenty of opportunities for players of all ages and abilities to play socially or at a

competitive level. Not only this, but for those gripped by GB battling it out at the London 2012 Games and want to see more don’t miss the chance to watch several of the Paralympians, past and future stars, in the RGK Super League! With the aim of creating, underpinning, and delivering quality opportunities both on and off the court for all ages and abilities, British Wheelchair Basketball also offers the opportunity to qualify as young officials, coaches, statisticians, classifiers, and referees. Classification System Enabling wheelchair basketball to embrace a

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

25/11/2012 21:45

It’s great exercise and I’ve met some brilliant friends through the sport range of disabilities whilst maintaining a level playing field, the sport sees players assigned a points rating from 1.0 to 4.5, reflecting their physical ability: the lower pointers having the most severe disability and the higher pointers having the least impairment. During matches, each team fields five players on court at one time but the total of these players’ points cannot exceed 14. In the UK, able-bodied players are able to compete in certain domestic competitions with a 5.0 classification. Rules Wheelchair basketball is played on the same size courts and with the same size height hoops as running basketball with many of the rules the same. Each basket is worth two points if scored within the two point field goal area. If the shot is taken from outside this area and scored it is worth three points. If a free throw is taken this is worth one point.

One Family’s Story: Secretary and Head Coach of the Stoke Spitfires, Andy Flower said: “I first got involved in wheelchair basketball some twenty years ago through a friend of mine. I loved the speed of the game and how much fun it is. It is great excercise and I’ve met some brilliant friends through the sport. “People come and go due to illness and injury and about nine years ago I became more involved in the running of the club. Apart from a brief spell last year as Chair I am still Secretary, but now the whole sport is a family affair. “This is one of the things I love about the game. When I met my wife Alison five years ago she loved coming to watch. We had met after chatting on the internet about her son who has a physical disability, and the chances of him having a go at basketball. So I suppose in a way the sport even found me my wife! David now plays and has been for four years. After being excluded from school PE lessons it was the first time he really took part in sport. After a couple of years watching Katie, his sister, he had a go.

It’s one thing that we can all do as a family. Alison is really involved with developing our club as well as working with the IPC to promote “parasport” in general. It has changed her life as well as her children’s. “Last year we had to have a season out and regroup - we only had 6 regular players. After a season of hard work we now have a junior section 16 players strong and enough adult players for a Division 3 and a Development team. Letting the club go was unthinkable in my eyes. It has been such a huge part of my life for such a long time. “My playing days are drawing to a close now but I could never walk away. I have undertaken my coaching badges and I really enjoy coaching youngsters. I want to become as good as I can be as a coach. “Wheelchair basketball is a great leveller. It helps people come to terms with their ability, not to focus on their disability. My only regret is that I didn’t find it sooner. I would have loved to have played at the top level of the game.“

If you would like more information about British Wheelchair Basketball or to find your local club, please visit www.britishwheelchairbasketball.co.uk or call 01509 279900

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

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PROACTIVE Autumn 2012 // 13

25/11/2012 21:45

ACTIVE: Fishing

Fishing for a

better future The BDAA has been campaigning for equality for disabled anglers for over 15 years

any disabled people rely on adapted vehicles to enjoy their hobbies or sport as well as for general travel. In many cases this years disabled athletes would not be able to represent their sports or attend training sessions for the Paralympics independently without wheelchair vehicles. Fishing is one of the most UK`s most participated pastimes or sports, whether as a means of therapeutic recovery or competitive sport. Many disabled anglers support The British Disabled Angling Association which was registered as a charity in 1996 by Terry Moseley, a 22 year veteran wheelchair user who has amassed 45 years angling experience at club, national, home and international levels. His achievements include numerous titles for competitions, Angling Times â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dick Walkerâ&#x20AC;? award for services to angling and, gold national and bronze international medals for England.

14 // PROACTIVE Autumn 2012

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Over fifteen years the charity has evolved from an unincorporated organisation in 1992 with just a few dedicated likeminded followers into the leading disability angling charity in Great Britain recognised and respected all over the world. From its humble beginnings it is now managed by a dedicated board of trustees and professional advisers, enabling them to deliver the charities aims and objectives governed by its constitution to ensure the BDAA helps create fishing opportunities, inclusive angling environments and equality for disabled children and adults with an interest in fishing. The volunteer trustees have dedicated their time to providing support, information and services to disabled people, their families, fishery owners, clubs and retailers in order to socially integrate disabled and nondisabled people within angling. We have seen many positive changes over the years due to

Fishing is one of the most UK`s most participated pastimes or sports our commitment and determination to make a difference. Our projects involve improving access and facilities, raising awareness of disabilities, adapting equipment and updating national directories of accessible fisheries. We have seen a number of barriers brought down enabling more disabled people to enjoy angling with the help and campaigning by the charity for equality in angling. Much of the charities success would never have been possible without the expertise of conversion companies such as GM Coachwork who have innovative ways of getting almost anyone mobileâ&#x20AC;?.

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

25/11/2012 21:13

THE TOOLBOX

THE TOOLBO THE GREAT GM ANNIVERSARY MUG GIVE-AWAY! Next year, 2013, marks GM’s 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion we have launched a limited edition mug and we have 20 to give away.

ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS Wheelchair access vehicles

1. Go on to our Facebook page from 9am Monday 10 December where you will see a photo of the mug

2. Click on LIKE

3. Give us your contact email address by sending a COMMENT.

(if you like the design!)

Accessible minibuses Mobility adaptations Used vehicles WAV hire Vehicle modifications CALL US ON

01626 853050

And its simple as that!

www. gm coach work . co. u k

The first 20 to do so will be sent a limited edition GM anniversary mug.

NEW CAR LOGOS As a finishing touch to our range we’ve decided to give them all an individual logo.

MONTANA

GM_25 Mug design_NEW.indd 1

NOT LONG NOW FOR CAONEY

FREE WINDOW STICKERS! Is your GM window sticker looking a bit tired? No worries. Drop us a line and we’ll send a crisp new one out in the post to you. Send your name and address to: Free Sticker Offer, GM Coachwork, Teign Valley, Trusham, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ13 0NX. Or email marketing@ gmcoachwork.co.uk

We like them! What do you think?

RES for e 3 M E T CESS AC IR A H C WHEEL

Please leav

Drop us a line on our Facebook page

ww w.g mc

oac hw ork

Thank you

.co .uk

186 0 084 5 850

15/11/2012 2

24/07/2012

00:26

She’s getting bigger by the day! Our not-so little Caoney is a mum in full bloom! Baby is due in January so Caoney’s getting everything ready to leave at Christmas.

Che www

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_Final201

GM STICKER

CONVERT YOUR NAVARA INTO A TIPPER No need to part exchange your Navara pick up for a tipper. Our conversion turns it into a pick-up truck. Fit it yourself or we can do it for you.

www.gmcoachwork.co.uk

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Call Graham for details…. 01626 853050. Watch the video on our You Tube channel. For more info www.pickuptipper.co.uk

AS EASY AS 1,2,3 Convert your Citroen Berlingo or Peugeot Partner van into a 5 seater. Our simple conversion adds a second row of seats behind the front cabin seats. Each seat is removable so you can have 1, 2, or 3 rear seats… or none at all. Comes supplied as a DIY kit or we can DIFY (do it for you!). Call Graham for details….

01626 853050. Watch the video on our You Tube channel. For more info www.seatsforvan.co.uk

PROACTIVE Autumn 2012 // 15

25/11/2012 21:14

PRO ACTIVE GM COACHWORK QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

Luxury as standard

AUTUMN 2012

I Love my

Volkswagen Caravelle MONTEREY Luxury Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Lowered floor

Class leading 59” access height

Seats 4 plus wheelchair passenger

Drive from wheelchair vehicles giving you total independence

Volkswagen Caravelle NEVADA

Volkswagen Caravelle COLORADO

Rear access Remote operated tailgate and ramp Rear lowering suspension Lowered floor Class leading access height 59”

Side access Remote operated doors and lift Optional air levelling suspension Lowered floor Three seat rear bench

Citroen Berlingo DUO Lowered floor Remote power tailgate and ramp Drive from or travel up front Lowering rear suspension Interchangeable driver & passenger seats

Maria was one of the first customers to take delivery. Here she tells the story of life with the Duo - Page 11

07 WHEELCHAIR HOISTS Gary’s guide to your choices

12 BASKETBALL Get active and get fit

Call 0845 0760962 www.gmcoachwork.co.uk 01_cover 16-1 GM ClassyNew.indd AD_A4_2012_V1.indd 1

07/11/2012 22:45

14 ANGLING

Fishing for a better future

27/11/2012 20:29