Changes to wheelchair services in Derbyshire: Listening to people brings change
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A new provider has been announced for wheelchair services in Derby and Derbyshire. From April 2025, Blatchford Ltd will take over from AJM Healthcare as the new service provider. This is following a procurement process led by NHS Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board (ICB).
We began hearing feedback from local people about the previous wheelchair service in early 2024. This included hearing from social workers and other people working within the health and care system who could see the impact the service was having on the people they support.
Following an increasing number of people telling us about the service we decided to run a project to learn more about the issues people were experiencing.
Over 100 people shared their experiences with us on our survey. We also had a lot of people sharing their personal experiences and frustrations on our social media.
After hearing from local people, we published a report highlighting long waiting times, delays in receiving equipment, and poor communication. All of which had a big impact on wheelchair users and their carers.
Helen Henderson, our Chief Executive welcomed the change and the importance of listening to patient experiences.
Helen said: “We heard from people across Derbyshire who told us about their struggles accessing the wheelchair services they desperately needed. Waiting months, sometimes over a year, for the right equipment was simply unacceptable.”
Helen also highlighted the severe impact that waiting for the correct mobility equipment and modifications has on people’s lives, including children and carers.
“Without the right wheelchair or essential adjustments, people’s independence, mental health, and overall quality of life suffers.
“This is particularly concerning for children, where delays can affect their ability to engage in education, social activities, and day-to-day life.
“Not having the correct mobility equipment can also have an impact on carers making small tasks much harder, something that must be taken into consideration.
“It’s reassuring to see that patient voices have played a role in shaping the future of this service. We hope this change leads to real improvements for those who rely on wheelchairs for their independence and wellbeing.”
The new provider, Blatchford Ltd, will continue to deliver community clinics across the county, starting in April 2025.
Helen added: “While a new provider is a step forward, what matters most is that people receive the timely, high-quality support they need. We will continue to listen to wheelchair users and their carers to make sure their voices are heard.”
We are committed to ensuring making sure all health and care services meet the needs of the people they serve. If you have experiences to share about wheelchair services, or any other health and social care services in Derbyshire, we want to hear from you. Get in touch with us: Feedback form.
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