The Wheelchair and Seating Services Standards and Eligibility Group met for the first time at the end of January. Capability’s Director of External Affairs, Richard Hamer, is chairing the group which has been convened to develop national clinical and service standards for Wheelchair and Seating Services (WSS). It has also been tasked with reviewing the WSS eligibility criteria and developing a quality rating tool.
The group has been set up as part of the Scottish Government Wheelchair and Seating Service modernisation project which aims to deliver a consistent, high quality service for people who use wheelchairs throughout Scotland.
Dr Mike Dolan, NHS Lothian, has been appointed as Clinical Advisor to the group which also consists of representatives from the NHS, the Scottish Government and voluntary sector and relevant user and carer organisations.
Richard commented: “I am pleased to be chairing the Wheelchair and Seating Services Standards and Eligibility Group and to have opportunity to help shape the future of Scotland’s wheelchair provision. Providing an efficient service that matches people’s practical needs and expectations is essential as we progress towards a fully inclusive society.
“Over the coming months, we will be working to create a robust set of national standards which will provide a strong framework from which wheelchair services can be delivered locally. By developing standards at a national level we can ensure that everyone in Scotland receives the same high quality service no matter where they live. We will also be reviewing the eligibility criteria to make certain that people receive the support they are entitled to.”