Navigating Snow and Ice

As snow and icy weather settle across the UK, many young wheelchair users and their families may find everyday journeys more challenging. While a white winter can look magical, it can also bring hidden obstacles — from slippery pavements to reduced wheelchair performance. 

At Whizz Kidz, we believe every young person should have the confidence and support they need to enjoy life to the fullest, whatever the weather. That’s why our Wheelchair Skills Training is designed to help young people feel ready for real-world conditions — including tricky winter terrain. 

Here’s how snow and ice can affect wheelchair users, along with simple, everyday tips and skills to help families stay safe, comfortable, and confident.

How Snow and Ice Affect Young Wheelchair Users

Reduced Traction and Manoeuvrability

Snow, slush and ice can make pavements slippery and uneven. Manual wheelchair users may find themselves getting stuck or unable to steer easily. Powered wheelchair users may feel their wheels slipping on shiny or icy paths. 

Impact on Powered Wheelchairs

Cold weather drains batteries more quickly, meaning young people may not be able to travel their usual distances. Snow and moisture can also affect controls, buttons or joysticks. 

Cold Exposure and Comfort

Young wheelchair users often get cold more quickly, and cold hands make it harder to push or operate controls safely.

Access and Independence

Icy ramps, blocked kerbs and uncleared pavements can disrupt familiar school or social journeys, affecting confidence and independence. 

Everyday Winter Tips to Stay Safe and Confident

These simple, practical tips can help young wheelchair users manage winter conditions more easily — whether heading to school, visiting friends or going on family outings.

Give Your Wheelchair a Quick Check Before Heading Out

• Make sure tyres look pumped and wheels spin smoothly.
• Brush off ice or snow stuck to the frame.
• For powered chairs, double-check the battery level - it drops faster in cold weather.

Wrap Up Warm (Even for Short Trips!)

• Dress in layers - a T-shirt, jumper and warm coat work well.
• A blanket or cosy over legs helps trap warmth.
• Use gloves with good grip so hands stay warm and safe on push rims or controls.

Take It Slow On Slippery Surfaces

• Move steadily on ice or slush.
• If a path feels unsafe, turning back is always okay.
• Travelling with someone can help when conditions are especially icy.

Keep Electronics Dry

• Wipe moisture from joysticks or buttons.
• A sandwich bag or clear cover can act as quick protection.
• Store the wheelchair somewhere warm and dry overnight if possible.

Plan Your Route Before You Leave

• Choose pavements likely to be cleared or salted.
• Stick to flatter routes - hills can become dangerous in ice.
• Let someone know your plan if heading out independently.

Pack a Simple "Winter Grab Bag"

• A small bag with a few basics can make winter outings smoother:
• Snack and drink
• Spare gloves or hand warmers
• Small towel to dry wheels or controls
• Charger or power bank
• A tiny pot of grit salt if your family uses it

Keep Talking About What Works

• Chat as a family about the safest winter routes.
• Share ideas and tips with other families in the Whizz Kidz community.
• Celebrate achievements - even short outings can be big winter wins!

How Wheelchair Skills Training Helps in Winter

Whizz Kidz Wheelchair Skills Training gives young people the confidence and practical know-how to handle all sorts of real-life situations — including winter conditions.

During training, young people learn skills such as:

• How to handle uneven or slippery ground safely
• How to approach small kerbs or slopes with control
• Techniques for manoeuvring when traction is reduced
• How to stay safe and confident when conditions change suddenly

These skills can make winter travel less intimidating and help young people stay independent, active and prepared — whatever the weather brings. 

Families often tell us that after skills training, their child feels more confident tackling snow, slush and icy patches, even when they look daunting at first. 

If you haven’t taken part yet, you can find more on our website — they’re fun, supportive and completely tailored to a young person’s needs. 

Keeping Winter Accessible For Every Young Person

Winter weather can make everyday journeys more challenging, but with simple preparation, everyday safety tips and the confidence-building skills learned through Whizz Kidz Wheelchair Skills Training, young wheelchair users can stay safe, independent and empowered all season long. 

Whizz Kidz is here to help children and young people develop the skills, confidence and independence they need — in every season of the year.