South Yorkshire CentreEQUIPMENT & INDEPENDENT LIVING UNIT
Trying out equipment at one of our open days.
The Independent Living Unit aims to provide impartial advice about equipment and practical aspects of daily living for disabled people, carers and professionals. Two state registered Occupational Therapists are available to provide equipment assessments and advice both in the unit and the wider community.
As an "Open Referral" policy is in operation, anyone can contact the Independent Living Unit for an assessment with the Occupational Therapist without a referral from a GP or other professional.
A range of equipment on display is available for demonstration, assessments and training.
The Display areas are:
- Bathroom: examples of level access showers, a variety of bathing equipment from standard board and seat to powered bath-lifts and toilet equipment
- Kitchen: a functional kitchen with a range of lightweight and easy to use cutlery, crockery, kettle tippers, tin/jar openers and more!
- Communication: a display of telephones with features to enhance use by people with hearing or visual impairments
- Bedroom: variable posture beds, pressure-relieving overlays, hoists and transfer equipment
- Seating: a range of high seat, easy riser, eclectic lift and recline chairs
- Mobility: walking appliances, manual and powered wheelchairs and scooters
- Stairs: four styles of stair lifts
If a piece of equipment is not currently available in the Unit, it is often possible to obtain products for "one off" assessments.
If you are wanting to visit the unit, it is advisable to make contact first to ensure that the area of interest and the Occupational Therapist are available.
There is a comprehensive information service providing details of equipment, including where they can be purchased and their current cost. The unit does not supply equipment for purchase. An Independent Living Support Worker can assist where necessary.
Community Therapists are encouraged to make full use of the Units resources and can book areas or equipment for their own assessments.
We Provide:
- Information packs expertly designed by our staff giving a back up reference and pointing out the possible pitfalls when purchasing equipment
- New product training and demonstration days for Health and Social Care Professionals
- Exhibitions and Open Days for disabled people, cares and professionals
- Information and advice workshops offered to professionals, service users and carers
- Accredited courses aiming to increase and maintain independent living skills
- Outreach sessions to community groups, offering advice on what our service is and how this could be beneficial
Important Action Points:
This section will be regularly updated with any important news bulletins regarding issues such as groups and equipment.
There are current investigations regarding LEVEL 3 scooters, in that the DVLA may need to be informed if you have one - more will be added to this when we know.
Mobility Pass
From March 1st 2007 severely disabled people who are unable to travel without assistance can qualify for a special Mobility Pass that enables a carer to travel with them free of charge.
For further information you can contact one of these information centres
Doncaster District
01302 735336
Rotherham District
01709 382121 ext 4005
Barnsley District
01226 775656
Sheffield Districe
0114 273 4897
For more information about Equipment or the Independent Living Unit please contact:
Linda Pinder Senior Occupational Therapist
Jennie East Basic Grade Occupational Therapist
Cheryl Stowe Information Officer