Inclusive entrepreneur and influencer empowered by new powerchair from Recare
Entrepreneur and influencer Martyn Sibley, 41 from St Ives in Cambridge, is the latest Recare client to choose a Permobil F5 powered wheelchair to empower his career and personal life.
Martyn is a business strategist, social entrepreneur and content creator. He has founded several platforms including the UK’s fastest growing disability e-magazine, Disability Horizons, and is the joint owner of the inclusive Purple Goat marketing agency. He has spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) which means his mobility is restricted so needs a powered wheelchair to remain independent 24/7. Despite his challenges, Martyn remains an influential ‘changemaker’ who has a media profile from his published writing, keynote speaking and podcasts. He’s a keen traveller and is committed to equality for all fellow passengers with disabilities. By choosing a new Permobil powerchair he will be able to achieve even more this year and beyond, through its advanced design and technology. Martyn picks up his story:
“I first met Tim from Recare three years ago when he came to repair my previous powerchair. Ray from Recare continued this service support and that’s when we got talking about a possible new chair in the future. I knew mine would need replacing in a few years, so I started the process of applying for funds through NHS Wheelchair Services and the Access to Work scheme. It took longer than expected; however, I eventually managed to get funding and after an assessment by Ray, we decided a Permobil F5 was the ideal powerchair for me. I took delivery of it last December and it’s been awesome ever since!”
Martyn continues: “It has been truly life-changing. As someone who relies on my wheelchair for every aspect of daily life, having a powerchair that supports me comfortably, reliably and with the right functionality is essential. It allows me to live a fulfilled home life with my wife and our Golden Retriever, enjoying the simple yet vital things like dog walks and fresh air in the local countryside.”
“Beyond that, my wheelchair is the key to my independence and my career. It enables me to run my business, Purple Goat, lead meaningful conversations around disability inclusion and continue my wider changemaking efforts. Whether that’s attending important meetings, speaking at events or engaging with the incredible disabled community, I rely on my wheelchair to get me where I need to be.”
“It also gives me the freedom to travel, whether for work or leisure. From business trips abroad to advocating for accessibility on a global stage, this powered wheelchair is more than mobility—it’s the foundation of my ability to create change.”
Finally, Martyn sums up by thanking Recare for their specialist support:
“Recare have been fantastic, especially Ray. Ray is a character and I always love catching up with him and having a great chat. One of the concerns I had about having a new powerchair was being able to still sit in particular positions for specific daily tasks, like washing myself and shaving. I was really impressed how he was able to exactly configure the new chair, so I didn’t lose any of those abilities. And when outside, being able to walk our dog again with a special dog lead attachment is so important to me. Overall, from assessment, through my wait for funding and then to handover and aftercare, all the guys at Recare have been amazing.”