Equipment

There are many items of equipment that offer practical solutions to problems of daily living and that aid independence and safety in the home environment.

The main types of equipment provided include wheelchairs, backrests, bath seats, commodes, bedpans and urinals, walking sticks and frames and adapted cutlery.

If someone is assessed by an Occupational Therapist (OT) and a need is identified for equipment, aids or minor adaptations then this will be organised by the OT and provided free of charge from Social Services. Each county has a slightly different system and they have varied stocks of equipment, but the OT will be able to advise on this. If specific equipment or aids are not available via Social Services it is possible to purchase them from specialist companies. Again the OT can advise. In exceptional circumstances Dorothy House may loan smaller items to patients.

The British Red Cross provides short-term loans of medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, for people with a disability or illness. Their website includes a search facility where you can find your nearest services.

Independent Living Centres offer a wide range of help. You can see and try many types of products and receive information on where to buy or how to get help to obtain what you need.

Patterson Medical is a national company that has a huge stock of items. Other local companies include:

• Bristol Mobility Centre
• Care Plus Mobility (all over the South West)
• Dorothy House Furniture Shop, Melksham
• Glebe Healthcare, Malmesbury
• Gompels Healthcare, Melksham

The National Centre for Independent Living is a national support, advice and consultancy organisation that aims to enable disabled people to be equal citizens with choice, control, rights and full economic, social and cultural lives.

Contacts

 Review Date: December 2011