Wear Your Wheels Hackathon

Over 65 million people worldwide require a wheelchair to be part of society and live an independent life. The freedom a wheelchair can give depends on how bespoke it. With traditional manufacturing techniques this freedom comes at a price that most people can't afford but new techniques such as 3D printing, CNC milling and laser cutting could change that. It’s already been done for bionic limbs, now why not wheelchairs? On the 27th June, we're inviting designers, makers and wheelchair users to come together at Machines Room, a makerspace in East London, to use digital fabrication techniques to develop bespoke wheelchair components that respond to a user-led design challenge. When?Tuesday 27th June, 11am - 7pm Where? Machines Room, 45 Vyner Street, E2 9DQ How much does it cost to attend? 100% Free. Travel grants may be made available in some circumstances, please contact molly.gavriel@disruptdisability.org. Who can attend? Anyone! But please let us know if you are a wheelchair user, designer or maker as attendees will be working in teams on the day. What about accessibility? Machines Room is an accessible, ground floor venue. There is one wheelchair accessible toilet at Machines Room and another at a gallery across the road that attendees will be able to use. If you would like further information on access or to reserve parking at the venue please contact Molly at molly.gavriel@disruptdisability.org. Molly is also able to provide directions from accessible public transport and organise taxis - nearby stations are Bethnal Green, Cambridge Heath, Hackney Central and Haggerston.Is lunch provided? Lunch will be provided. Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary requirements. Is there anything I need to prepare in advance? Attendees will be sent a briefing pack prior to the event with further information. Participants will be working in teams reflecting a mix of skills and experience.