Health equipment survey to help improve local community services

People living across Lancashire are being asked for their feedback to help improve the provision of community equipment services across the region.

These services provide free equipment on loan to people in their homes that is ordered through the NHS or via local social care services.

Community equipment services help people to carry out day-to-day tasks and activities which they would otherwise be unable to do, help people remain independent in their own home and enable carers to continue to support loved ones with their ongoing care.

The equipment provided to people’s homes ranges from complex items, such as hospital-type beds, hoists, bed lifts and other specialist moving and handling equipment, to simpler support aids such as commodes, walking frames and raised toilet seats.

Some of the equipment must be fitted or adapted to the home in which it will be used by suitably trained staff.

The survey has been launched to help NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) and the local authorities in Lancashire to improve these services.

Feedback is welcomed from anyone who has used or continues to use these services, whether this was for a short time or over a number of years.

Jackie Moran, integration place leader for Lancashire East at the ICB, said: “Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Council, Blackpool Council and the health services across those areas, are looking to understand what the experience is like for our residents who are in receipt of equipment in the community.

“At the moment there are different processes in each area and we are considering if there are any areas where the experience is great for our residents where we can take learning to help us improve the experience for others. We want to hear from you to help us to shape our services for the future.”

To take the survey, visit Community Equipment Services across Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool and Lancashire (smartsurvey.co.uk)

Alternatively, you can email lscicb.ice@nhs.net if you need help completing the survey.

The survey closes on Sunday, August 18.