We know that wheelchairs can change lives, allowing children to have the freedom they need to explore the world and take advantage of all life’s opportunities, so we’re thrilled we were selected for the weekly BBC Radio 4 Appeals in July 2025.
We were lucky that not only did a recent recipient of a wheelchair from Newlife, Bobby, let us tell his story, but it was one that really resonated with British Paralympian wheelchair racer Hannah Cockroft, who presented our appeal – one which touched so many listers who kindly supported us in raising vital funds to give other children the vital equipment they need too. We raised more than £14,000 during the week-long appeal, with more money still to come, as many Radio 4 listeners prefer to donate by cheque.
Bobby, from the West Midlands, loves his new wheelchair from Newlife, but when his old one became too small and started falling apart it meant that he could no longer get around by himself. The brakes failed, making it unsafe for him to get in and out of his chair on his own, so he had to rely on grown-ups to help.
His new wheelchair means he has the independence he needs for everyday life, but it also means he can go to all the clubs and sports sessions he loves, including wheelchair racing – which is something British Paralympian wheelchair racer Hannah knows all about.
Hannah said: “I didn’t get my first wheelchair until I was 15 – and it was a life-changer; I went on to win gold medals and break world records.
“But as a child I didn’t qualify for a wheelchair from statutory services because I could walk very short distances. Walking left me exhausted; it was a challenge to get around, and having a wheelchair would’ve made my life so much easier. However, a wheelchair cost as much as a small car, and it wasn’t something my parents could afford. Like Bobby – who Newlife provided with a brand-new wheelchair. “It wasn’t cheap, costing nearly £5,000, but it fits perfectly and means he can now keep up with his friends and do all the activities he loves.”
Research from Newlife suggests it’s a similar story for many children across the UK, so by providing specialist equipment – not just wheelchairs, but buggies, beds and car seats too – the charity is making a difference to many young lives.
This won’t be the last chair Bobby needs as he continues to grow, and there are currently hundreds of children just like Bobby waiting for equipment from Newlife.
Although you can no longer donate to our appeal through the BBC phone lines, you can listen to Newlife’s Radio 4 Appeal on BBC Sounds and make a donation to help children just like Bobby by visiting our appeal web page here