Foothold knows that engineers are always looking for ways to solve problems and improve the world around them. We know an amazing charity – REMAP – who work with disabled people to design custom-made equipment.

As part of our conversation around disability and illness, we invited REMAP to share stories from the people who use their equipment in their daily lives – and the engineers who power these possibilities.

Guest blog: The engineers building a more accessible future

Imagine not being able to enjoy your favourite hobby or complete daily tasks – not because you lack the passion or motivation, but because the right equipment simply doesn’t exist. For many of the UK’s 16 million disabled people, this is an everyday reality.

That’s where REMAP steps in.

We are the UK’s only charity providing custom-made equipment for disabled people, completely free of charge. Designed by expert volunteers, our solutions help people regain their independence, boost confidence, and access activities many of us take for granted – from cooking and playing sports to navigating daily life.

Mya’s water-skiing challenge

Take Mya, a determined water-skier with a shortened right arm. Off-the-shelf equipment failed her – it was too large, clunky, and held back her progress. Her family turned to REMAP.

One of our volunteer engineers crafted a lightweight, bespoke adaptor tailored to her arm. The result? Mya’s now accelerating in her sport and reaching her full potential.

“Tom from REMAP was absolutely fantastic,” said Mya’s mum, Diane. “He listened, he cared, and he worked tirelessly to design something just for her. We couldn’t have done this without him.”

Hazel’s return to independence

Hazel, a wheelchair user since childhood polio, has worked with REMAP over the years as her needs have evolved. Most recently, limited arm movement made it impossible for her to reach her joystick in its standard position.

Our volunteers engineered a custom moveable sidearm, repositioning the joystick so Hazel could control her chair independently – allowing her to take back both freedom and confidence.

Powered by volunteer engineers

Stories like Mya’s and Hazel’s are only possible thanks to REMAP’s incredible team of over 800 volunteers – people with backgrounds in engineering, design, electronics, carpentry, metalwork, and 3D printing.

One such volunteer is Fareda Alwakeel, who holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Medical Engineering from the University of Leeds. Since joining REMAP, she’s worked on numerous life-changing projects, each starting with a home visit to understand the client’s unique needs.

“Volunteering with REMAP has been truly transformative,” Fareda shares. “It’s shown me how my skills can directly improve lives. I’ve had to think creatively, adapt quickly, and solve real-world challenges – and it’s made me a better engineer.”

Another REMAP volunteer is John, a retired engineering manager with over 50 years of experience. One of the first people that John worked with was Seth, a young boy who used a wheeled walker to get around. Living near the coast, Seth and his family spent a lot of time on the beach, but he found that his walker’s small wheels got stuck in the sand.

John’s solution was to craft a large-wheeled version of Seth’s walker, using wheels from a golf cart. Within minutes of trying out his new beach walker, Seth was paddling out into the sea for the first time unaided and playing with his family.

John commented: “This project gave me a great sense of achievement. I have done several other projects for children and the look on their faces when they try their new aid is priceless!”

Building a more accessible future

REMAP was founded over 60 years ago by Pat Johnson, a former Royal Engineer, who designed a custom hoist and ramp for his sister. He soon realised others needed similar tools.

Since then, REMAP has supported over 145,000 people – helping around 3,000 more every year. In fact, 98.9% of our clients report increased independence thanks to our work.

But we can’t do it without people like you.

Interested in volunteering for REMAP?

Are you an engineer, maker, or designer ready to make a difference?

Join REMAP’s nationwide team and use your skills to improve lives in your local community. Whether you’re experienced in electronics, metalwork, woodworking or simply a creative problem-solver – we need you!

Learn more and get involved at remap.org.uk or if you want to ask any questions, please email me at [email protected].

 

Thank you to REMAP, their volunteers and their clients, for sharing their stories.

At Foothold, we can help you take some control back as you adapt to ill health, disability or caring responsibilities. Explore the support available to you here.