Thiis aug 14

ISSUE 191 • AUGUST 2014

Providing news and views in the trade since 1999

10th franchise opens as Scottish outlet added to growing network ARE YOU BREAKING THE NEW LAW?

FAMILY RETAIL BUSINESS CELEBRATES

STOCKSHOP ON THE MARKET NEW FACES RETAILER FOCUS

TR SEE ST AD US AN E A D DA T D YS 40

Comfort Made Infinite

Rise & Recline Chairs by Wilcare

Comfortably Better

When it comes to selecting rise & recline chairs for your exact requirements, our experience, design flair and established innovation simplifies the process for you. For all your healthcare furniture needs, call the experts at Wilcare.

• Craftsman produced in our own factory • Quality engineered mechanisms & motors • Wide range of styles and fabrics • Bespoke & contract ranges

Wilcare (Wales) Ltd Vale Business Park, Llandow, Cowbridge CF71 7PF Wales, United Kingdom Tel: 01446 772227 Fax: 01446 772226 Email: info@wilcarewales.co.uk www.wilcarewales.com

…from the editor

RETAILER AWARDS 6

This month, apart from all the details on new products, retailer focusses and industry news and views, there is a look at a few more of the companies that are going to be exhibiting at Trade Days in October.

The organisers are reporting that feedback from retailers is very positive and it’s likely that you will have seen information from what is an extensive marketing campaign that is in place.

As we’ve said before, as an industry, we have one chance to make a ‘trade only’ event work. The suppliers have shown their support by booking space in numbers – there are around 130 companies with stands now.

But, it will only work if retailers turn up. If they don’t, then bearing in mind the huge amount of effort, the support from the suppliers, the extensive marketing campaign and the not insignificant amount of money that is being spent to get the message out, then it’s very unlikely that any other show organisation would take a chance and try to run an event just for the trade in the future.

So, if you haven’t yet registered for the two day event (Oct 5-6, NEC), then why not take a few minutes to do that now...

STOCK SHOP 18 ON THE MARKET 28 FRANCHISE UPDATE 38

www.tradedays.co.uk

RETAILER FOCUS 52 JOBS ON OFFER 66 TRAINING DIARY 72

David N Russell AD4

Tel: 01536 710050 E-mail: info@thiis.co.uk

v3 12-11 Flash ad Thiis Mag:200x40

14/12/11

14:25

Page 1

WHY ARE SO MANY DEALERS SWITCHING INSURANCE & FINANCE TO FIRST SENIOR?

You can find THIIS on Twitter at: wwwthiiscouk

Find out why on page 11 & 15

www.thiis.co.uk 3

Ellen, Blue Badge Company

Doug, Gerald Simonds

Rebecca, Capatex

Mark, Able2

Angus, Happy Legs

Kim, Sidhil

David, Gordon Ellis

Miranda, NRS

Sarah, Helping Hand

Steve, Recliners UK

Elaine, Electric Mobility

David, TIMO UK

Join us at the UK’s first TRADE ONLY business to business event for the mobility, living aids and assistive technology industry.

It’s new, it’s different, it’s unique, it’s been designed for businesses just like yours and promises to be the most worthwhile, rewarding and profitable two days you and members of your team will spend in 2014.

Time to do business with over 130 suppliers Take advantage of the special trade deals and save £££ Choose from a packed programme of free business, sales and marketing seminars Attend exhibitor briefings to get all the latest news and developments Meeting rooms and spaces available for networking and in-depth discussions Supported by:

Make a date to be part of this brand new trade event For more information and to register for your FREE place visit: www.tradedays.co.uk/free-THIIS

First Name:

www.tradedays.co.uk/free-THIIS

Surname:

Email Address:

Mobile Number:

Organised by: CloserStill Media Healthcare Ltd, George House, Coventry Business Park Herald Avenue, Coventry CV5 6UB

Job Title:

Address: .............................................................................................................................................................................................. Postcode: .....................................................

Company Name: ................................................................................................................................................................................. Telephone: ...................................................

Please write clearly to allow us to process the registration correctly

Post forms to: Freepost Plus – EZCY – AELB, Trade Days, CloserStill Media Healthcare Ltd, George House, Coventry Business Park Herald Avenue, Coventry CV5 6UB

Fax back to: 02476 713 778 Scan and email to: e.cave@closerstillmedia.com

FREE DELEGATE PASS SIGN UP SHEET

RETAILERS PICK UP AWARDS Cavendish Healthcare and IRM Mobility have won special achievement awards for their work on behalf of the AJ Way and Kirton brands respectively.

Kirton Group Dealer Manager Laura Adkin explained: “The awards are in recognition of both retailers’ performance over the last 12 months in terms of volume sales, proactive marketing and superb levels of customer service before, during and after each sale.”

Cavendish Healthcare has been an AJ Way retailer for four years with showrooms in Torquay and Waterlooville from where it covers Devon and Hampshire while also delivering nationwide.

On receiving the award on behalf of Cavendish Healthcare, Simon Thorneloe commented: “We were surprised, pleased and flattered to receive this award as it proves that we truly understand the marketplace and the benefits of promoting ourselves and the brands we represent. The award will also help when we are talking to customers in the showroom about the Kirton product portfolio”.

Based in Yate, Bristol, IRM Mobility Ltd covers approximately a 60 mile radius in and around the town. The company has been a Kirton

retailer since 2000 during which time IRM has built a strong relationship with the Kirton team as Business Development Manager Emma Davies explained: “From day one we have been impressed with the quality of products from Kirton and the support we receive as a retailer. To win such a prestigious award is fantastic for us as it is recognition of all the hard work everyone at IRM puts into ensuring every manufacturer we represent and customer we deal with receives a first class service.”

If you are interested in representing the AJ Way or Kirton brands contact Laura on 01440 765026 or email LauraAdkin@kirtonhealthcare. co.uk

New MND powerchair developed by Invacare The Motor Neurone Disease Association has opened a new wheelchair service, officially launched in Leeds by HRH The Princess Royal.

The new facilities will provide a dedicated service specifically for MND patients and is due to be one of three across the UK that will provide posture and mobility assessments and services.

At the launch, Invacare displayed the new MND powerchair. The new ‘neuro chair’ has been developed in conjunction with the MND Association. It adapts to a patient’s changing requirements and includes more product features to provide an effective mobility solution to enhance quality of life for a person with MND. For more details about the Motor Neurone Disease Association go to www. mndassociation.org The Invacare website is at www.invacare. co.uk

Mark Prosser, MD of Invacare Ltd with The Princess Royal.

Cavendish Healthcare was chosen for the company’s performance with AJ Way products

• An extensive range of rise and recline mechanisms to suit all needs

Rimini Deluxe

• Bespoke chairs designed to the users measurements and requirements

Rimini Classic

Bringing 15 years of comfort and quality to homes all across the UK

• A choice of seat and back cushion design with the emphasis on comfort and posture

Kingston

Westbury

• A wide range of fabrics to match any décor.

All Repose home furniture has been designed to the highest standard. This is demonstrated in the quality and attention to detail in each recliner chair, designed specifically to the users measurements and personal requirements.

Dr Hilary Jones Our In-house Health Advisor

For more information please give us a call:

Tel: 0844 7766001

www.reposefurniture.co.uk CO M FO RT W I T HOU T COM P ROM I S E

£7 MILLION OF POWERCHAIRS SUPPLIED – CHARITY LOOKS FOR MORE RETAILERS AND SPONSORS In 1975, George Makey MBE started an initiative to raise money to buy powered chairs for disabled children. At the end of the seventies he asked Peter Alliss, the renowned golfer and commentator - to become involved, which he did willingly.

Several mobility retailers got involved with the charity and ended up supplying hundreds of powerchairs to children in their areas, all of which had a golf ball on the joystick.

For a number of years, all the wheelchairs were supplied by Sunrise Medical, the main sponsor in the early days. Each year, as organisations such as Golf Clubs, Variety Clubs and Masonic Lodges raised money and purchased the chairs for local children. Golfers were invited to attend the annual golfing event, held in Elie, Scotland.

At the Peter Alliss Masters, golfers could win a coveted green jacket.

Now the charity has been running for over 27 years and has so far donated chairs to the value of an impressive £7 million.

The charity has been supported over the years by several loyal retailers including Five Towns Care Centre, Midshires Mobility, Southern Mobility, Kent Mobility, Helpful Hand and Albion Mobility but the charity is always on the lookout for new retailers to get involved. The main sponsor for the charity is now Invacare.

Katie Thomas has been involved with the charity for many years and she explained more.

“There are seven of us on the Committee and we work voluntarily to ensure that all the money raised goes towards another wheelchair for a 8 www.thiis.co.uk

child. Peter, now 84, is still our patron and enjoys the three day event and loves to welcome all the golfers on tournament day.

At the Presentation dinner, he presents the Green Jacket to our lucky winner - a real honour for any golfer.”

She added: “This year we are moving to a new venue with a fresh approach. At the Old Thorns in Hampshire we are giving manufacturers and retailers the opportunity to sponsor a hole on the day of the tournament, on Wednesday 1st October. The cost is just £250 and the hole sponsorship will enable the charity to buy another wheelchair.”

Katie says that she is “ This year we looking for more retailers a new venue to get involved and to generate interest in their approach” local areas and supplying chairs.

For more details on how you can get involved and to talk to Katie about sponsoring a hole at this years’ event, email teamkatie@googlemail. com or call 07779746008 The website, where you can find out more about how the charity works and see which retailers are currently involved is at www. peterallissmasters.org

ABOVE Peter Alliss heads up a charity that has donated hundreds of powerchairs over the past few years, through retailers throughout the UK ABOVE LEFT Katie Thomas has been involved with the charity for many years. She is pictured here with Eric Malkin of Five Towns Care Centre. The company supplies many of the powerchairs bought with donations from golf clubs and other organisations.

are moving to with a fresh

Earn up to an amazing

£1,000 through the Stiltz Lift referral scheme:

• Exciting and unique product offering; an easy referral.

• Great commission structure.

• Various sizes of eye catching point of sale.

• Simple process, just collect the client details and we do the rest.

Introducing the new Stiltz Lifts

Lead Referral Scheme • Smallest footprint of any home lift.

• A neat and discreet alternative to a stairlift.

• Surprisingly affordable lift options, prices start from just £8,999.

• No load bearing walls required; it can fit almost anywhere, even in a small cupboard.

• Aesthetically pleasing; a lift to be proud of.

• One day installation, with minimal disruption.

For more information call

0844 870 9087

www.stiltz.co.uk

Smart label on sling range

VISIT US ON STAND C47

Care-ability Healthcare has launched their new smart label. The new label is a woven design which is replacing the traditional printed label found on slings.

David Tilly of Care-ability told us: “Woven labels are not new. Care-ability were using these when we first started trading, however, with the introduction of LOLER the information required on the labels had to change. For example each label required a sequential serial number for traceability and the machines that produced the woven labels could not do this as the set up costs back then were prohibitive.”

He added: “From that point printed labels were used as this option allowed for all the necessary information to be present on the label design at a realistic cost without the high set up costs for woven sequential numbering. Over the years our printed labels have always been a reliable source for providing the information required under BS EN SO 10535.”

One issue with printed labels is that the print can fade due to the sometimes harsh laundry processes that slings are subjected to by some organisations. Woven labels are much more serviceable and do not have the same inherent problems as the printed label and can withstand these laundry processes. With the technology available today there can be all of the required information on a woven label that is currently have on a printed label.

David explained: “The cost of the label is a lot higher than that of a printed label but we feel that it adds even more value to our products and extends the life span of our product. Our new smart label does not tell a story but comes with all of the necessary legal information required

www.tradedays.co.uk

including a woven sequential serial number. In addition to this our new labels have a Q.R. code which can be scanned by a smart phone or tablet that will then take you to an instructional video on the sling application.”

“We all know what happens to the paper instructions so this is one way for carers who are using our products to view the product in use. The new labels can be produced with a company logo or branding and colours. In addition the instructional videos are available for “ The cost of the label is a lot our customers without any reference to Carehigher than that of a printed ability Healthcare so trade label but we feel that it customers you can put their branding on them. adds even more value to our Care-ability will be products” showing the new labels at Trade Days on the 5th and 6th October at the NEC. For more information, contact David Tilly david@care-ability.co.uk or telephone 0191 4159777.

About THIIS Magazine The easiest, cheapest and quickest way you find to build retail sales in the disability, homecare, rehabilitation and assistive technology marketplace.

THIIS magazine is read by anyone who either sells or supplies disability, rehab and homecare equipment.

The magazine is monthly and has been produced for over 15 years Sent to 3000 companies each month with an estimated readership of 10,000 per month.

THIIS is also read online with a page reader system by 100’s of trade contacts and is available as a PDF download too.

10 www.thiis.co.uk

5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham

FIND OUT WHY SO MANY DEALERS ARE SWITCHING FINANCE TO FIRST SENIOR VISIT US STAND ON D35 TRIPLE STAR FINANCE

5th & 6 th O NEC Bir ctober 2014 mingha www.tra m de days.co .uk

A helping hand when you need it most.

FREE TOPROFIT JOIN SHARE NO REPURCHASE WITH

FREE TO JOIN - NO MONTHLY FEES

2011: RECORD YEAR FOR ACCEPTANCES

NEW SIMPLE ONE PAGE APPLICATION

FREE HIGH VISABILTY INSTORE P.O.S

First Senior Finance are pleased to present an all new finance scheme for mobility dealers. Feature and benefit highlights include new ‘No-Risk’ agreements, new dealer profit share programme, direct access to our underwriting team and enhanced service levels.

We call it ‘Triple Star Finance’ and it’s good for everyone.

It starts here, for your FREE information pack call:

01582 842224

DRIVE MEDICAL ACQUIRES DUPONT MEDICAL Drive Medical has acquired Dupont Medical, one of the leading manufacturers and distributors of healthcare products in France.

The Company operates from a 175,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility located in Frouard, France.

Founded more than 150 years ago, Dupont Medical is one of the most recognised premier brands in the healthcare industry in France and is an industry leader in Europe, with a broad range of products marketed and distributed to approximately 2,000 customers throughout Europe.

The Company manufactures and distributes a full range of home healthcare products, including wheelchairs, homecare beds, patient lifts and technical aids, under the Mobily, Samery and Adage brands. Dupont Medical also manufactures and distributes a broad range of diagnostic devices, emergency equipment and medical instruments for doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals under the Colson and Healthy brands.

Over the past several years, the Company has launched a wide range of products including comfort and positioning seatlift chairs.

The acquisition expands the company’s already significant presence in the European marketplace, with operations in the UK and Germany. It also increases the manufacturing capacity in Europe.

“ Drive Medical will help distribute Dupont’s manufactured product lines across new distribution channels throughout Europe”

A brand new, easy to use resource for Invacare’s Safe Patient Handling products

visit www.safepatienthandling.co.uk 12 www.thiis.co.uk

The Dupont range includes a wide range of products

The

Ultralite 480

Voted ‘Best Buy’ in Which? magazine

3 fabulous colours to choose from!

Contact your Area Dealer Manager for more details or call now & order today for your showroom.

Voted ‘Best Buy’

79% Which? Ratings Portability

Score 79%

Ease of handling Control and manoeuvrability Getting on and off Using controls

BEST BUY

What Which? say...

We were so impressed with this mobility scooter that we've made it a Best Buy. It gives a reassuringly stable ride, manoeuvres well around corners, and is easy to get on and off.

You won't have to recharge the battery too often, and you shouldn't have too much trouble lifting its component parts into the boot of a car when it's dismantled. taken from Which? magazine review

0800 252 614

sales@electricmobility.co.uk electricmobility.co.uk

new legislation

Selling to the public?

Are you breaking the new consumer rights law?

If you are selling to the public, then you need to make sure you have caught up with the new law which came into effect in the UK on 13th June. Here, Sarah Lepak, Director of Governance & Policy Development at the BHTA explains some of the changes that you need to know about.

Q A

Which bit of the law has changed?

The new legislation implements the EU Consumer Rights Directive in the UK. The Distance Selling Regulations 2000 and the Cancellation of Contracts made in a Customer’s Home or Place of Work Regulations 2008 have been repealed, and are replaced by the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation & Additional Charges) Regulations 2013.

Q A

So does it affect everyone who sells to members of the public?

Yes it does. Some of the information you now have to provide applies, no matter where the sale takes place. For example, you now have to make your customers aware of your complaints handling policy. You also need to be careful that prices are displayed in a way that shows the total price, so you’ll need to think through how you inform people that they may not need to pay the VAT where that may be the case.

Q A

Does it apply to business to business transactions?

No. This law is about selling to a person who is acting outside their trade, business, craft or profession.

Q A

What’s the headline change?

The change most people will notice immediately is that the cancellation period for sales off premises (at a customer’s home) and via distance means (via the web, mail order, or over the telephone) has changed to 14 calendar days. That’s the period in which the customer

14 www.thiis.co.uk

can simply change their mind. For sales on premises in a shop there is no change, it is entirely up to you whether you wish to offer a “no questions asked” cancellation period as part of your returns policy.

Q A

Have the rules “ You could be looking at criminal about the right to prosecution if you do not provide cancellation changed?

Yes, it’s now the same notice about the cancellation for both off premises right and give the customer a and distance sales, with the cancellation period copy of the cancellation form” running from the day after goods are delivered, or the day after the customer enters into a contract for service.

QA

How vital is it that I get this right?

You could be looking at criminal prosecution if you do not provide notice about the cancellation right and give the customer a copy of the cancellation form. The legislation contains model wording for the form.

The burden of proof is on the trader that this was handed over, so make sure you list it in sign off checklists.

Q A

If the customer changes their mind, what do I have to refund?

If a customer properly cancels within the time allowed (be aware, they can cancel verbally, they don’t have to do it in writing) they are entitled to a refund of what they paid for the product and if they paid for delivery, they are entitled to a refund of the standard delivery fee as well.

FIND OUT WHY SO MANY DEALERS ARE SWITCHING INSURANCE TO FIRST SENIOR

VISIT US STAND ON D35

TRIPLE STAR COVER

5th & 6 th O NEC Bir ctober 2014 mingha www.tra m de days.co .uk

A helping hand when you need it most.

FREE TO JOIN COMMISSION NO OTHER BROKER PAYS HIGHER BETTER COVER WITH FEWER EXCLUSIONS

2011: RECORD COMMISSION PAYOUTS

NEW SIMPLE ONE PAGE APPLICATION

FREE HIGH VISABILTY INSTORE P.O.S PACK

First Senior Insurance are pleased to present a simple, no fuss way for mobility dealers to offer great value insurance to their customers. Outstanding policy benefits, easy registration and processing and enhanced service covering insurance, extended warranty and roadside recovery.

We call it ‘Triple Star Cover’ and it’s good for everyone.

It all starts here, for your FREE information pack call:

01582 840067

new legislation

Q A

Can I charge a re-stocking fee?

No, you can’t. You must also advise the customer at the outset that they will be responsible for the cost of returning the goods to you and if you offer to collect for a fee, they should be given some idea of how that is calculated. If you don’t warn them they can expect you to meet the costs of getting the goods back.

Q A

Can the customer waive their right to a cancellation period?

No. Their decisions may alter their rights to a refund/how that will be calculated, but the basic line is that if it’s a sale off premises or via distance means, they have the right to change their mind.

Q A

What if the customer has used the goods?

If you can prove they’ve used them you can deduct an amount from their refund to reflect that. They do have the right to inspect the goods, just as they would in a shop, so be aware that if they need to remove packaging in order to inspect the goods, you’ll need to allow that.

Q A

How long do I have in which to provide a refund?

You do not have to provide the refund until you have the goods, or proof that they are on the way back to you (whichever is the earliest), but once you do you have 14 days in which to provide the refund.

Sarah Lepak guides businesses through a change to the law that everyone needs to be aware of and to understand

Sarah has emphasised that this is just a snapshot of all the changes. She told us: “There are things to think about such as installation fees, whether an item is bespoke, what happens if you sell the customer your demonstration product and leave it with them there and then; and making sure you have provided all the information they need.

Businesses in every sector will need to get this right.”

You can find a copy of the legislation at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ uksi/2013/3134/pdfs/uksi_20133134_ en.pdf

Do You Want an Extra Income at No Extra Cost?

Benefits for Platinum Partners: • One Stop Shop For Delivery, Maintenance and Service • Increased Marketing Opportunities • Increase Your Brand Awareness • Higher Levels of Commission • Regular Database Management

Visit us at www.hdd-ltd.com

Contact us today on

01274 735041

Commission Generated & Paid to you

Next Contact Agreed If Required Service is Carried Out

New Customer

Call HDD & Arrange Delivery HDD Deliver, Set Up Equipment & Demonstrate to Customers Needs

Call us to find out how you can generate more profit through Healthcare Distribution Direct Ltd.

12 Months After Delivery, Annual Service Contact One Month Follow Up, Customer Service Contact

Follow us

@HDDltd

Join us

/HDDltd

Introducing the new Windsor, an affordable and extremely comfor table riser recliner.

Exceptional Value From A Quality UK Manufacturer.

Trade Fair and Congress

Our Windsor comes complete with a Single Motor Tilt-In-Space action which offers an extremely comfor table seating position through it’s entire motion.

Manufactured in the UK this product comes at an exceptional price and is accompanied by our 5year warranty package.

Self-determined living

www.rehacare.de

For further information contact International Trade Shows Link Ltd. Ramsay House, Marchmont Farm Link Road Hemel Hempstead _ Hertfordshire HP2 6JH Tel 01442 23 00 33 _ Fax 01442 23 00 12 info@itsluk.com _ www.itsluk.com

2014-05-25 RehaCare 2014_Großbritannien_REHACARE_98 x 297 + 3mm_Thiis_4c_3607

Düsseldorf, Germany 24 – 27 September 2014

VISIT US ON STAND C30 5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

Uniquely Designed Fold-up Table.

Our beautifully stylish side tables are made using premium quality wood, which come with a melamine finish that is scratch proof and water-resistant.

Space-economisation is the main use of our tables and when not in use, the table can be easily folded down which makes it perfect for both domestic and professional use.

Exclusive to the UK

only available at Recliners

Design

*

For More Information Call

0800 37 37 02

Craft

*

Quality

info@reclinersltd.co.uk

StockShop StockShop is where you’ll find special trade offers. If you are a supplier and have some stock that you would like to shift, at prices below your normal trade prices, then simply send in the details to info@thiis.co.uk. All we need are product descriptions, a photograph, the normal trade price and the special offer price and contact details.

August offers from Cefndy

S2 - 660mm/26” Antibacterial Plastic Bath board Positive location against bath ensures no sideways movement, as board is held in slip resistant cleats. Hygienic in-built antibacterial properties. Reversible – handle can be positioned at either side.

Trade price was £17.80. Now £12.36 B63 - Over bed Table (4 Castors) Adjustable in height and tilt.Simple to assemble.

Trade price was £22.37. Now £15.21 S152 - 711mm/28” Bath board Reinforced plastic slatted bath board. Smooth surface allows for easy patient transfer. Two plastic cleats to safely secure product.

Trade price was £13.13.

Now £9.41

S153 - 152mm/6” Bath Seat Plastic slatted bath seat provides comfortable option and

allows easy drainage.

Slats are fully sealed to stop water penetration.

Strong suction pads secure product firmly into position.

Trade price was £15.70. Now £10.84 S154 - 200mm/8” Bath Seat Plastic slatted bath seat provides comfortable option and allows easy drainage. Slats are fully sealed to stop water penetration. Strong suction pads secure product firmly into position.

Trade price was £16.12.

Now £11.59

Ringwood Steel Grab Rails 61cm AA6014 Epoxy Coated Now £3.50 was £6.85 AA6015 Chrome Finish Now £4.00 was £8.90

Sherwood Perching Shower Stool with Adjustable Back and Arms 091164607 Now £33.50 was £51.19

Savanah Raised Toilet Seat (Blue) 5cm (2”) 091156710 Now £4.00 was £6.00

C216 - Percher / Brown Vinyl Padded back / Steel Arms Modular but assembled.

Deeply padded in heat sealed vinyl.

Adjustable height. Gentle seat incline for greater comfort and safety.

Trade price was £22.00.

Now £18.95 C380 - Percher / PU, Padded back / Steel Arms Modular but assembled.

Adjustable Height.

Contoured polyurethane foam seat to counter any slippage.

Trade price was £25.15. Now £19.76

Contact Cefndy Sales Team on 01745 343877 or cefndy.sales@denbighshire.gov.uk All prices are exc. VAT. 18 www.thiis.co.uk

Patterson Medical products on offer...

Club Standard Commode (Blue) AA2336B Now £35.00 was £79.50 For any of the Patterson Medical offers, contact 08444 124 330 quoting H0208 to gain these special prices (Subject to availability)

Special Offers Valid from 1st August to 30th September.

All prices reduced by at least 10%.

VISIT US ON STAND B22 5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

Barbey Folding Back Wheelchairs 16” Colours: Hammer Green, Powder Blue, Dark Pink & Turquoise. 19.2 kilos.

18” Colours: Dark Blue, Hammer Green, Powder Blue, Wine Red, Dark Pink & Turquoise. 19.5 kilos.

Bed/Work Table Angle & Height Adjustable: 600 x 480mm Max height 800mm

Kinrin Lightweight Wheelchair 14” Colours: Dark Pink & Turquoise. 12.5 kilos.

18” Colours: Dark Blue, Light Blue, Dark Red & Turquoise. 13.8 kilos.

RA-6147 £13.95

Back Rest Folded size 625 x 590 x 120mm Adjustable Height 260 575mm RA-6201

WA-2710 WA-2175 £13.20

£55.00

Aluminium Suitcase Ramps Width 30” (765mm)

14” £49.00 18” £55.00

Curved Handled Stick Height Adjustable: Non-folding

Portable Aluminium Ramps (Pair)

WA-3414 £3.09 WA-2601 WA-2602

5’ (1525mm) £52.50 7’ (2134mm) £72.00

WA-2604

36” (920mm) £65.00

WA-2605

24” (610mm) £47.00

WA-2606 48” (1220mm) £77.00 WA-2607 60” (1525mm) £110.00

Walking Stick Strap WA-3411 £0.80 Walking Stick Clip

WA-3412 £0.80

Standing Support Stick Height Adjustable 840 - 1070mm

WA-2608 72” (1830mm) £131.00 Offset Sponge Handle Quad Stick Adjustable for Either Hand : Height Adjustable 740 - 960mm : Base size 210 x 157 x 74mm WA-3413 £8.90

WA-3421

£3.94

Contact us at: 9 Holkham Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough, PE2 6TE Tel: 01733 391900 Fax: 01733 931551 mail@shineinternational.co.uk www.shineinternational.co.uk

FIRA VISIT FOR CELEBRITY Phil Reynolds, Chief Operating Officer of FIRA visited the Celebrity factory in Nottinghamshire recently to present the company with a FIRA Test Certificate for BS EN 8474:2013 - 160kg User (Furniture– Chairs with electrically operated support surfaces).

Phil is pictured with Ron Nicolson, Managing Director of Celebrity.

The company is one of the first manufacturers to receive the new British Standard Certificate that supersedes the previous standard issued in 2006.

Ron told us: “Having been one of only a few producers to have met the previous standard I am delighted to receive this further validation of our product quality. This proves our continued desire to be the leading riser/reclining chair manufacturer in the UK, reflecting our commitment to only producing chairs of the correct quality that the marker demands.”

All Celebrity’s reclining and riser recliner Zip Speed models plus the newly launched Hertford and Portland chairs are included within the British Standard testing and meet BS EN 8474:2013 where the performance requirements are specified for chairs suitable for users weighing up to 160kg.

Celebrity recently moved to a new 108,000 sq ft factory in Nottinghamshire.

The new facility includes a training room and product showroom where retailers and their sales staff can try out the full range.

FIRA to present seminar at Trade Days FIRA’s flammability expert, Tristine Hargreaves, will be presenting a seminar at Trade Days. The session is titled ‘10 things both manufacturers and retailers should know about complying with the UK flammability regulations’. Tristine is part of FIRA’s team of experts in technical Standards for the furniture industry and represents FIRA at committees in the UK and Europe. For information on this and all the other seminars taking place at the event, go to www.tradedays.co.uk

NEW OPPORTUNITY MANUFACTURER LOOKING FOR RETAILERS

Horizon Mobility, manufacturer of Heavy Duty and Off Road Mobility Scooters, but equally at home in the High Street jungles

NEW OPPORTUNITY Local areas, first retailer in an area will have exclusivity

NEW PRODUCTS Currently the available models are the Saxon, Aztec and Mayan AC. The Mayan AC is the world’s most powerful mobility scooter and the first one powered by a 3 phase induction AC motor. The Mayan AC also has a maximum user weight of 65 stone.

EXCELLENT MARGIN With exclusive areas and lack of Internet discounting as each scooter is individually built for the customer, margins are maintained.

CALL 01242 223000 or visit www.horizonmobility.com Horizon Mobility Ltd, 10 Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham. GL52 9FB

TELEPHONE: + 44 (0) 1422 314488 FAX: +44 (0) 1422 314489 WEB: WWW.SPORTRIDER.CO.UK EMAIL: ENQUIRIES@DRIVEMEDICAL.CO.UK

THE SPORT RIDER FROM DRIVE THE FUTURE HAS ARRIVED... ...A MILESTONE IN SCOOTER DESIGN, BUILT TO PUSH THE LIMITS.

WWW.DRIVEMEDICAL.CO.UK

VISIT US STAND ON D20 5th & 6 th O NEC Bir ctober 2014 mingha www.tra m de days.co .uk

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @DRIVEMEDICALUK

Getting technical with textiles As well as the companies that will be very well-known to retailers, there are also a number of businesses exhibiting at Trade Days in October that might be less familiar.

Redwood Distribution is one of those companies looking to increase awareness by being in front of retailers and suppliers at the trade only event.

Redwood was established in 1994 and has fast become a market leader in technical textiles. With experience spanning two decades, the company has become a recognised force within the medical, retail and technical sectors.

The company a technical textile converter with a specialism in flame retardant fabric treatment and coated fabrics. These high quality treated fabrics are used in a variety of sectors, including medical, retail, bedding and contract textiles. The range includes Transfer Coated fabrics, FR fabrics, High Slip/ Anti Slip coatings, and durable TPU films.

There is also a range of specialist coatings for medical applications which are used within the pressure relief, incontinence and patient moving & handling sectors.

A division of the business manufactures both components and finished product under the customers own label. Products can also be designed and tailor made to a customer’s exact specification.

More recently Redwood has become a market leader in mattress cover production for the retail bedding market. The company manufactures all types of tailored covers that add value to the overall mattress.

The company also offers a stockholding service for their customers – both UK and international – providing ‘just-in-time’ delivery.

John Atherton is the Group Commercial Director. He told us: “Trade Days provides the right environment for us to show our full range of fabrics, products and manufacturing capabilities to the right audience. It will enable both our existing and new customers to obtain a greater understanding of the Redwood offering and how our expertise in the technical textiles market can assist them.”

He added: “We have strong partnerships 22 www.thiis.co.uk

VISIT US ON STAND B27

5th & 6th October 2014 with leading suppliers across the globe which, NEC Birmingham combined with our technical knowledge and www.tradedays.co.uk our modern manufacturing techniques, allows us to ensure the best fabric is used with the right processes.”

John told us more “ Trade Days provides the right about what visitors to the Redwood stand at environment for us to show our Trade Days will see. “We full range of fabrics, products will be showcasing our Xtreme fabric coating and manufacturing capabilities that provides the quality to the right audience” and safety assurances needed for many products used in this sector such as patient handling and pressure reducing devices.

The company was established in 1994 Xtreme provides multi stretch and breathable and had grown into a fabrics that offer the best chemical resistance market leader with a on the market, ensuring the end product has wide range of textile technology products. strength and durability. As well as Xtreme, we will demonstrate our full range of fabric and BELOW Redwood product offerings available.

Distribution has built a substantial Redwood Distribution are on stand B27. The business in the website for the company is at www.redwoodtextile business, supplying solutions distribution.co.uk in the pressure relief, incontinence and patient moving and handling sectors.

T h e

P r e s t i g e

C o l l e c t i o n

VISIT US STAND ON B51

by primacare

5th & 6 th O NEC Bir ctober 2014 mingha www.tra m de

A collection of rise and recline sofas and chairs for the discerning quality conscious customer

days.co .uk

Prestige by: Primacare ltd Unit 26, Heads of the Valleys Industrial Estate Rhymney, Tredegar. NP22 5RL telephone (01685) 845900 info@primacare.co.uk

Best buy award for Royams Royams has been selected for one of the ‘Best Buy Riser Recliner 2014’ awards from Which?

Tracey Major from Royams told us: “As a very British company, we manufacture frames and mechanisms at our Blackburn based factory, using only highly skilled joiners, engineers and upholsterers. Which? has confirmed, what we believed for many years, that we produce a product which is made to last and provide exceptional comfort, stability and safety. We have always believed our furniture is the best on the market and this award has validated it.”

“Which? advises consumers that our ‘Best Buy’ Donna Riser Recliner provides stability, with an added advantage of firm wooden hand grips.

The chair has not one, but two battery back-ups, fitted as standard.”

24 www.thiis.co.uk

The company has been manufacturing furniture for nearly 40 years.

Tracey added: “We are able to produce bespoke furniture to customers’ requirements, as well as delivering standard and special ordered items within seven working days on our Express delivery service. We were the first to be awarded the FIRA test BS8474 2006, BS48751:2001 for strength, stability and safety, with our unique patented Pro-texa Safety System and other patented designs and concepts that are exclusive to Royams.”

For retailers, point of sale information is available on the chair. For more information, call 01254 665228 or email royams@aol.com

PRICED TO BE ONE OF THE LOWEST ON MARKET Prism Medical UK has announced the launch of two new Freeway branded steel mobile hoist ranges targeted at the community and long term care sectors.

The ‘Freeway E-Series’ has been priced to be one of the lowest cost mobiles on the market, whilst the ‘Freeway S-Series’ provides another economical solution with additional features.

Designed and manufactured at Prism’s North Wales factory and in consultation with key clients, the company says that the new mobile hoists are expected to provide an innovative solution to clients’ mobile hoisting options whilst at the same time reducing their costs.

Both ranges are available with maximum user weight capacities of 160kg (25 stone) or 180kg (28 stone), feature on-board charging and Freecote antibacterial coating. The E-Series comes complete with manual leg opening, whilst the S-Series benefits from powered leg opening and up to 30,000 cycles.

Prism Medical UK Sales Director, Tom Reaney was upbeat about the launch of the new hoists. He said: “Many of our customers are experiencing tighter budgetary constraints

than at any time I can remember and this is something we are continually looking to address. We feel the new mobile hoists will go some way to saving the healthcare system significant amounts of money, whilst maintaining the highest quality standards expected by our customers.

However, we won’t be stopping here as we continue to invest in research and development to ensure we provide the best possible solutions for the UK and European markets.”

For more details on the products, call 0845 409 2000. The website is at www.prismmedical. co.uk

The new hoists have been designed to reduce client costs

To help you Rest & Relax LA002 Bed Backrest

LA069 Memory Foam Contour Leg Pillow

LA003 Leg Support

LA057 Bed grab bar & safety support

LA004 Bed Assist Rail

LA058 Multi-purpose Overbed Table

LA005 Gel Pillow with Cooling Pad

LA021 Set 4 Square Furniture Risers

LA074 Set 4 Circular Furniture Risers

VISIT US ON STAND B15 Brands Brandsby by

For further information about the Active Living range please contact Paroh Ltd on 0121 543 1336 Web: www.paroh.co.uk

Hilly’s Hilly’s Email: sales@paroh.co.uk Kitchen Kitchen GiftGCifot .Co.

Paroh Ltd

@ParohLtd

Paroh Ltd

5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

new on the market

NEW ON THE MARKET Anything new? If you have a new product that you would like to have featured in THIIS and seen by 3000 companies next month, then send details to info@thiis.co.uk. All we need is a short product description and hi-res jpg image

New chairs from Z-Tec Z-Tec Mobility has introduced two new chairs. The company says that the Capri Riser Recliner Chair offers outstanding quality at a competitive price including good quality leather upholstery and wooden frame. It is available in both dual and single motor versions. It is available in brown or black.

The Elba Riser Recliner Chair offers good quality at a competitive price with good quality luxurious fabric and wooden frame.

As with the Capri. It is available in dual and single motor options. Colour choices are Beige, Charcoal or Chocolate.

For more details, call Mizzie on 01384 481111. The website is at www.z-tec.co.uk

New dynamic replacement mattress system The Serenity 2 is a new dynamic replacement mattress system available from Scan Mobility.

It combines low pressure with alternating pressure therapy to help provide a clinical cost effective solution. The modern digital control unit is designed to provide ease of use for any care giver. The control unit is equipped with low pressure and mains fail audible and visual alarms and automatically compensates for patient weight distribution and position.

The mattress cover is made from a new revolutionary fabric Xtreme which is multi stretch and breathable. The cover offers improved durability and has 10,000 ppm chlorine resistance as well as conforming to BS7175 crib 5.

Call 01704 233344 or visit the website at www.scanmobility.co.uk

The ScanTurn Lateral Rotation System The ScanTurn Lateral Rotation System is designed to limit the effects of pressure and immobility by providing lateral rotation and subsequent pressure relief. The degree of tilt and the length of time spent in the tilt position can be programmed to meet the patients clinical and comfort needs whilst at the same time taking into account the care setting.

The mattress has an integral heel cushion which helps improve positioning and heel alignment during rotational therapy and the foam crib provides stable side supports to aid transfer and promote independence where possible. There is also a CPR facility for rapid deflation.

The control unit is user friendly and easy to operate and is equipped with both a lock out facility to prevent inappropriate changes to the settings as well as an audible and visual alarm. The mattress cover also conforms to BS7175 Crib5.

Call 01704 233344 or visit the website at www. scanmobility.co.uk 28 www.thiis.co.uk

B Vi 5t 27 sit o h & at u 6t Tra r sta h O de n ct Da d 20 ys 14 .

Xtreme fabric coating is a specially developed formulation, that can be used to produce covers for pressure reducing devices, without any compromise.

Pressure Relief

Infection Control Stands up to stringent anti-bacterial requirements.

Significantly reduces pressure sores & ulcers.

Durability

Fluid Proof

Outstanding test results for strength and durability.

Waterproof to industry leading standard

Chemical Resistance

Withstands the aggressive cleaning regimes which require the use of 10,000ppm active chlorine.

Comfort Multi stretch & breathable.

Easy to Clean Simple to wipe surfaces

Environmental Meets all legislative requirements

With the heightened concern regarding hospital acquired infections, there has been an increased concentration, prolonged contact time and higher frequency of use, of disinfectant. Xtreme fabric coating has been developed to withstand these new cleaning protocols resulting in fewer incidents of strikethrough and extended product life.

Call Redwood today to find out more about our technical fabric solutions:-

T-01695 553 830

or email info@xtremefabriccoatings.co.uk

www.xtremefabriccoatings.co.uk

new on the market Helping customers block unwanted calls There’s a good chance, that if you ask your customers what annoys them most these days, unwanted sales calls will be right up there. So, being able to provide them with a solution could be a great way to build customer loyalty.

The CPR Call Blocker Protect + has been designed to protect vulnerable adults from scam and nuisance phone calls. The device blocks all calls apart from who you want to speak to. All the trusted numbers can be programmed into the ‘allowed’ list and any caller not on the list won’t get through.

CPR Distribution is exhibiting at Trade Days in October to show this new product and a whole range of useful devices.

For more information, call 0800 6527780 or visit the website at www. cprdistribution. co.uk

New outdoor chair from Ottobock The C1000 DS wheelchair is designed for off-roading, outdoor adventure and everyday manoeuvrability. It has power steering, a tight, 70cm turning circle and is very compact due to its short wheelbase.

The C1000 DS is fully suspended, is front wheel drive and comes with lights and anti-tippers for extra safety.

It has a load capacity of up to 200kg with a low seat height from 40cm. It can be ordered with lift seat functions and tilt-inspace to promote better positioning, feeding and rehabilitation.

Call 01784 744 927 or visit www.ottobock.co.uk

New replacement sling range Easy Sit and Slide Travel sheet The new travel sheet has been designed for people who are going on holiday or into respite care who want to take their Easy Move sheets with them but are unsure of the bed size they are going to.

The Travel sheet is a panel sheet that is placed across the bed on top of the hotel fitted sheet and tucks under the mattress sides. Users position the low friction, ultra smooth satin part of the sheet where they need the most slide; either under the shoulders and body or under the hips and legs. Available in two sizes from single through to superking for most hotel bed sizes.

For more information, call 01380 739 789 or visit the website at www.easymovesheets. com

30 www.thiis.co.uk

Silvalea, has launched the new Silva Quick2-Apply replacement range designed for use with standard coathanger style (LOOP) spreader bars and stud (CLIP) fixing hoists.

The range is manufactured in a lightweight, low friction and flexible single layer fabric.

Call 01626 331655 and ask for a copy of the new Silva Quick-2-Apply Product Mini Guide or visit the website where you can view the whole brochure range. The website is at www.silvalealtd.co.uk

New bath support The JonVac bath support is new to Joncare. The vacuum support cushion, made of high quality PU material, is filled with fine polystyrene granules and can be customised and adapted to fit the users body shape. By extracting air and creating a vacuum state it is easy to create a firm cushion that gives the body support and stability whilst bathing.

The support can be used with or without an integrated headrest and is fixed into the bath or to the bathlift by eight suction cups For more information, call 01235 523353, email info@ joncare.co.uk or visit the website at www.joncare.co.uk

BLAZER POWERCHAIR

S T Y L E I N N O VAT I O N C H O I C E The Blazer is a compact indoor/outdoor powerchair which can be adjusted to suit the user’s needs. The narrow 60cm width and 100cm length make the Blazer an ideal option for confined spaces. It is also is great for outdoor use with large front castors and rear wheel suspension. There are two speed options 4mph or 6mph with the option of larger batteries for increased range.

VISIT US ON STAND C40 5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

Karma Mobility Ltd Unit 6 Target Park, Redditch, Worcestershire B98 8YN T: 0845 630 3436 E: info@karmamobility.co.uk www.karmamobility.co.uk

a Narrow Base only 60cm a Available in 4mph or 6mph a Crash Tested a Available on Motability a Up to 60Amp Batteries a Optional Attendant Control a Optional Lighting a Optional Tilt-in-space For further details please call 0845 630 3436 or visit www.karmamobility.co.uk.

new on the market

New mounting system range through Leckey Leckey has announced that the company has been appointed by Blue Sky Designs as the exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for the Mount n’ Mover range of accessible mounting systems.

The patented Mount’n Mover system provides movable mounting solutions to position, secure and quickly switch out laptops, phones, iPads, speech devices, reading and writing trays, and cameras. The mounts work on wheelchairs, tables and floor stands.

According to the company, it is the most accessible and customisable out-of-the-box mounting system available BlueSky Designs was founded in 1997 by a Rehab Engineer who has designed custom and commercial products for hundreds of people with disabilities.

For more details of the range, go to www. mountnmover.com The Leckey website is at www.leckey.com

ERGO Space Seat - Less Is More Platinum has launched the new ERGO Space seat, an upgraded option which can be added to any ERGO seat order.

The seat provides an extra 50mm of space compared to the standard ERGO seat, allowing stairlifts to operate on thinner staircases. When combined with the ERGO Plus seat pad, the Space seat can reduce the operating area by a further 25mm, a total space saving of 75mm.

The back rest is 80mm shorter than the standard seat with reduced thickness. This stops the user’s shoulder blades from coming into contact with the seat, and allows them to sit in a more comfortable, upright position. This in turn means that the user’s back is closer to the wall, bringing their legs, knees and feet closer to the carriage and reducing the space needed for the chair to travel up the stairs.

For more information call 01535 631177 or visit the website at www. platinumstairlifts.com

32 www.thiis.co.uk

Looking to donate to deserving causes Aktiv UK’s General Manager, Andy Haines, is donating ex-demo products that he has left over from previous ventures.

Andy said: “When I began the Aktiv UK venture with Murrays Medical Equipment, I had legacy stock available for sale as a stock disposal to clear space in my stores Andy has a number of other items that he is looking to donate including: Various sleep system parts, adult and paediatric, various body supports for bed and shower, an Ocean Shower commode with tension back, foam mattresses, wheelchair cushions and a Mini Crosser 1121 with electric ELR’s, raiser seat, power tilt/recline which needs new batteries.

Andy can be contacted on 07810 555885 or email at sales@aktiv-wheelchairs.co.uk.

New Hoist and Sling Assessment Guidelines Invacare has revised and updated its Hoist and Sling Assessment Guidelines booklet. Written in plain English, it is designed to support anyone involved in planning and implementing moving and handling tasks.

The booklet can be ordered from Customer Services e-mail: ordersUK@ invacare.com product code: 1537335

Permobil acquires TiLite Permobil has acquired TiLite, manufacturer of innovative and individually customised manual wheelchairs. Founded in 1998, TiLite designs and manufactures ultralightweight manual wheelchairs in titanium or aluminum that can be customised to each user’s exact specification. TiLite is headquartered in Pasco, Washington in the USA and currently sells in 41 markets.

Permobil and TiLite combined have sales of approximately SEK 2 billion. Permobil’s acquisition is financed by retained cash and new debt.

34 www.thiis.co.uk

Thirty years of product development Chief development engineer Richard Rimington has completed 30 years of service with Mangar International. One of the company’s first ever employees, Richard has played an intrinsic part in the invention of many of the company’s cutting edge mobility products.

Richard’s career had illustrious beginnings with an apprenticeship at Rolls Royce in Bristol. The apprenticeship was part of a sandwich degree course in aeronautical engineering at Imperial College London.

Richard eventually joined Mangar and became an important part of founder David Garman’s engineering team.

Richard said, “The early days with Mangar were really exciting.

I could use a mix of practical and theoretical engineering skills to create, experiment and test new products. In those days calculations and drawing were all on paper. The introduction of computing for engineering analysis and 3-D drawing enables us to do a much better job these days.”

He added: “One of my proudest achievements was the Booster pneumatic lift where we built stabilisers inside the bellows. This lift was in production for 20 years and even exhibited in the Design

Museum in London.”

Richard was also involved in the product development of the emergency lifting cushions currently used by emergency services in the UK and across the world. “These ground breaking patient lifting cushions have contributed to a reduced risk of back and musculoskeletal injury to paramedics and I’m proud to have been a part of that”.

With memories of his early days at Rolls Royce in mind, Richard still follows developments in the world of cars and aeroplanes.

He concludes, “There have been incredible advancements in the engineering of electric modes of transport that would have seemed staggering years ago.

I’m particularly looking forward to seeing how the first round the world flight of an solar powered aircraft gets on next year.”

The Mangar website is at www. mangar.co.uk

VISIT US ON STAND E35 5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

NEW TO THE TEAM Have you expanded the team or maybe promoted an existing team member into a new role? If so, why not send us details so we can introduce them to the trade? Just send through the details to info@thiis.co.uk

East of England addition Sidhil has continued to strengthen its presence on the ground with the appointment of Nicole Gadsby as External Territory Sales Manager for the East of England region.

Nicole, who is resident in East Anglia, brings to Sidhil a wealth of experience in account management and customer service, as well as knowledge of the healthcare market. She is looking forward to new challenges in terms of further developing Sidhil’s presence in the acute sector, alongside providing sales product training and customer support.

UK Sales Manager for Caretech Caretech UK Ltd has announced the appointment of John Newman as UK Sales Manager for Faaborg UK products.

Faaborg produce a full range of hoists (from 95kg to 375kg) and standaids all matched with their own slings, weigh scales to fit most hoists, chair weigh scales, wheelchair scales and baby scales.

The company says that, over the next 12 months, it will also look to bring to market Faaborg’s selfpropelled wheelchairs, turners, slide sheets, rollators and crutches.

Having worked in the industry for many years John may be especially known from his Carters and Invacare days. John will be responsible for introducing the Faaborg-Rehab range of hoisting and manual handling equipment and weigh scales into the UK. The company will be demonstrating the new range at Trade Days in October at the NEC. For more information, contact John on 07866591787 or the main office on 01268775585.

36 www.thiis.co.uk

Mangar boosts sales team Mangar International has appointed two business development managers to join their growing sales team.

Gary Hopkins from Porthcawl will be responsible for sales in the south of the UK and Phillip Livesey from Blackburn will lead a sales team in the north. Between them, they have more than 35 years’ experience in a sales environment, many of those selling mobility products and equipment.

Before joining Mangar, Gary was Area Sales Manager for Patterson Medical. He also has considerable retail experience having managed a Lidl Supermarket and his own Golf Pro Shop for 17 years. His early career was as a golf professional at Pontardawe Golf Club.

Phillip Livesey joins from moving and handling equipment company Prism Medical. During his time at Prism he worked closely with Local Authority Stores and built strong relationships with occupational therapists in the north of England. He also has an impressive sales background having previously worked with Diageo and Yellow Pages. Phillip started his career as a semi-professional footballer, playing in Australia, America and Sweden.

The Professional Dealer’s Choice For outstanding value for money insurance and warranty Premier Care Partnership

Premier Care Products

Best commission levels in the market

Scooter and powerchair insurance with 24/7 breakdown as standard

15 months insurance for 12 offer to help you sell

Manual wheelchair insurance

Eye-catching point of sale to attract customers Experienced staff to support you and your customers

In-Home warranty with accidental damage cover from day one High value insurance and warranty

For an easy way for your customers to buy MBL Finance Easy payment plans to purchase mobility products Interest free loans up to 18 months Interest bearing loans up to 42 months Simple application process

to find out more call

01476 513789

email: sales@markbatesltd.com visit: www.premiercare.info

SPECIALIST INSURER

Latest Ableworld franchise stores open at both ends of UK Ableworld has opened two more franchise operated stores, in Southampton and Broxburn, near Edinburgh.

L AV AR A Ge ne IL R w A M BL A e XI SO M O O n !

The new stores bring the number of Ableworld Franchises across the country to 10 and the total number of stores to 22 with 2 more set to open this summer and more planned for later in the year.

The Southampton franchise operation is owned by local businessmen Jeff Newman, Steven Thompson and Chris Hewitt. They are all local people who have significant experience behind them. Jeff’s working history goes back over 35 years and includes retail, construction and hospitality. His most recent role was as a local Franchised Milkman and was 2008 Southern area Milkman of the Year.

Many of Jeff’s old customers are similar in age and needs to Ableworld’s core customers.

Steven and Chris have had a successful partnership for several years and bring their skills from construction and mechanical engineering into the business, something that the team says will be particularly useful on the stairlift and scooter side of the business.

All three directors have undertaken Ableworld’s training programme so that they can assess

380729TGAad.newstripJun14v3.indd www.thiis.co.uk

1

customers correctly and provide the right solutions for the variety of customer’s needs they will face.

Jeff has a clear view “ I believe our highly visible and how he and his fellow accessible superstore will fill a directors can help local people who need mobility gap in the market” equipment “Having had daily contact with elderly and disabled customers in my previous occupation, I witnessed several fall injuries and mobility complaints. I believe our highly visible and accessible superstore will fill a gap in the “ We were disappointed by the market.” number of times we would walk Ableworld Broxburn is owned by local residents into a store and be completely David Gaffney, wife Audrey ignored” and sister Maureen McIvor. The showroom was previously a motor vehicle business.

David has a wealth of retail, customer service and management experience which resulted in him owning and managing three car sales

VISIT US ON STAND E14 5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

ABOVE LEFT Broxburn near Edinburgh is the location for the most recent Ableworld franchise operation and it is maybe the most impressive looking yet.

showrooms. Audrey, is a Primary school teacher and has been working in West Lothian schools for the past 36 years. Maureen has worked as a nursing auxiliary for severely handicapped children, in retail and has recently been employed by Edinburgh City Council working closely with OT’s and carers.

David told us: “When we were researching other local Mobility Retailers, we were disappointed by the number of times we would

walk into a store and be completely ignored. We also noticed how the stores were small, dark and not welcoming. Our new store is completely the opposite of all those things.”

The Broxburn outlet is on 01506 856565. The Southampton store can be contacted on 02380 440000.

The Ableworld Franchise operation will be exhibiting at Trade Days in October.

ABOVE RIGHT Inside the brand new store.

LEFT The new franchisee team in Southampton.

From left to right Sue Newman, Jeff Newman, Chris Hewitt, Steven Thompson RIGHT The new Southampton store is now open and became the ninth franchise operation to appear

faster folding, further flexibility with enhanced engineering, the latest Minimo can be easily folded in one smooth movement. with unsurpassed transportability and ultra-lightweight battery option, the compact Minimo is a revolution in car boot scooter design.

Tel: +44(0)1787 882244 sales@tgamobility.co.uk www.tgamobility.co.uk

The UK’s leading range of mobility products, since 1985

27/05/2014 18:30

Healthy retailer registrations for first Trade Days The available exhibition space at Trade Days looks like running out shortly as the number of exhibitors reaches the 130 mark. There’s no doubt that there is going to be a very interesting and unique show floor at the new event – a group of exhibitors that no-one has previously seen at any show, anywhere, all looking for a ‘trade only’ audience.

Matthew Butler, Trade Days Show Director reports that things are going exceptionally well.

“We are very encouraged by the reaction to the show from retailers” he said. “We are still a couple of months out from the show dates and we know a lot of the registrations will happen during that time, but we are seeing very healthy registrations at this point with retailers registering as a team. They can obviously see that there are a number of different reasons for staff members to come along and benefit from the extensive and focussed educational programme that we have for them.”

He added: “We have a major telemarketing programme taking place and I’m sure that many THIIS readers will have already heard from one of our team members. The feedback about the initial pack and first newspaper that we sent out to retailers was extremely good, awareness of the show is very high and the vast majority of the phone conversations are very positive. It’s clear that many retailers are really looking forward to visiting the show to see what it’s all about and they believe that it will be a great place for them to do business, which, of course, is the whole point of Trade Days.”

The show is attracting the leading suppliers along with a number of smaller companies looking to make their mark in the marketplace and build a retail network.

One such company is Flexyfoot. David Goodwin, Founder and Designer told us: “We are thrilled to be involved with Trade Days. The

event provides a platform for further building our brand and creates the opportunity for us to interact with our customer base, other relevant retailers and the wider The first Trade Days industry in a very targeted newspaper is just way. A dedicated trade a small part of the on-going marketing event like this is just what we need in the UK; campaign for the new the opportunity to talk business, increase trade, event. If you haven’t seen a copy of the develop business relationships and exchange newspaper, then you thoughts and ideas.” can read it online at The Ramp People will be in front of the trade http://www.tradedays. co.uk/press/Juneat a show for the first time. Philip Shaw told us: Newspaper “Trade Days offers us our first opportunity to produce a focussed promotion for retailers and we believe it is going to be a great place for us to be to get the message across about the quality and competitiveness of our products.”

Established supplier Rise & Recline Ltd will be using the show to unveil several new products on stand D15. Managing Director Samantha Langtree explained: “Trade Days is the perfect event “ We are very encouraged by for us to launch our latest products as it will allow us the reaction to the show from to talk exclusively to the retailers” trade and gain invaluable feedback. To have the opportunity to spend two days engaging with industry contacts in a B2B environment is fantastic and a very worthwhile investment”

Stairlifts 0844 225 3121 | Moving & Handling / Bathing Solutions 0845 271 1107 | Mobility 0845 0745 945 | www.handicare.co.uk 40 www.thiis.co.uk

Our select range has been designed offering British built quality at unrivalled value for money, 3 Attractive lift recliner chairs with 3 size options, all offering advantages over similar priced foreign imports • More choice on fabrics

• Hassle free ordering

• Fixed furniture to match

• Multiple order discounts

The Tuxford

• Manual recliners available • Supporting British manufacturing • Quicker lead times

Sitting Pretty are proud to present:

Y - Years O - Of an U - Unrivalled R - Reputation - Offering...

C H A I R

- Comfortable - Highly - Appealing - Individual - Recliner Chairs

3 sizes...

• Petite, standard and large.

• Available in a wide selection of quality fabrics (books provided) • All available as single and dual motor lift recliners/manual recliners or as static fixed furniture with 2 and 3 seater sofas

The Brinsley

The Lambley

We have now relocated to our larger manufacturing factories at Pinxton, Nottinghamshire just 1 mile from the M1 junction 28.

Call 01773 811610 today for your price list and info pack Email: sales@spchairs.co.uk • Website: www.spchairs.co.uk

The company is also hoping to use the event to attract new retailers as Sales Director Nigel Morley explained: “Over the years we have built up a very strong UK network but I believe there is still room for growth in parts of the UK and I am looking forward to talking with existing and potential retailers at the show.”

If you are interested in becoming a Rise & Recline retailer and would like an initial discussion with Samantha or Nigel prior to Trade Days, call them on 0115 913 3572.

Last month we carried details of some of the free seminars available over the two days of Trade Days. Whether you are interesting in learning about how to sell more, market your business without spending a fortune, develop online business or update yourself on technical issues, there are sure to be seminars that will be useful and relevant for you and members of your team. Here are details of a few more on offer….

The ‘Let’s talk retail – What do retailers think about the market, the suppliers, the challenges and the opportunities?’ is a session where a number of retailers will give their views and look into the future of the marketplace. Why not come along, listen and then fire a few questions!

The future of the marketplace is also being discussed in a session that asks what the AT business model of the future will look like. It will include how changes in the marketplace will impact on marketing and communication strategies, who are the customers of the future and how you can engage with them?

Sponsored by Patterson Medical, the session is being presented by David Silver of Years Ahead.

David says that the session will give attendees an understanding of what encourages and what puts existing and prospective consumers off from using and purchasing more products.

Everyone wants to sell more of course, but selling in the right way, that brings the customer back time and time again is key to building a business. The session entitled ‘Sell more, but sell well’ is all about having and keeping that happy customer, hopefully for years to come. Anyone who is face to face with a customer will learn some useful and essential ways to make sure you start to build customer loyalty. The session shows you how you can achieve strong sales performances whilst maintaining the highest of ethical standards and is presented by : Dave Sutton of DPS Associates. Dave has worked with Handicare, Liko, Days Medical and NRS over the past few years.

To get the customer you have to get the enquiry in the first place and that’s all about putting together an effective marketing campaign. ‘Heads, Shoulders, Hips and Toes – an insight into how to produce an award winning marketing campaign’ explains how to put together an award winning marketing campaign in our industry. In this presentation you’ll get to know why it was put together, how it was put together and how it worked and you 42 www.thiis.co.uk

Rise and Recline Directors Nigel Morley and Samantha Langtree beleive that Trade Days will be a great place to launch new products

will be able to take away simple tips to make your own marketing more effective. The session is presented by Bornona Dasgupta, Marketing Manager of BES Rehab Ltd. One area of the business that has developed quickly over the past decade is the bariatric sector. Anyone working in the marketplace needs to know more about the specific needs of a customer group that they are sure to come across in the future. ‘Equipment assessments for Plus Size People - 10 things you need to know - the ‘ins and outs’ of providing the right service for someone with specific needs’ will be presented by Anita Rush who is a Clinical Nurse working with specialist equipment. Anita is the highly experienced clinical lead for equipment provision across Berkshire and she has lectured “Trade Days offers us our for the Disabled Living first opportunity to produce Foundation, published a a focussed promotion for number of articles, spoken at national conference and retailers” facilitates workshops on Plus Size Management.

Richard Nicholson of Veritas Procurement will be presenting a seminar that aims to give retailers an overview of other opportunities in the marketplace. Richard set up Veritas after identifying a real requirement for efficiency savings across Health and Social Care organisations, and since then has helped revolutionise the way in which people’s needs “A number of retailers will give are assessed and the way in which equipment their views and look into the and support is obtained. future of the marketplace” He’ll be taking a look at Community Loan Stores, Wheelchair Services and CCG’s in a session entitled ‘New opportunities in a changing landscape – how your company can take advantage of the ‘outsourcing’ momentum’.

Richard will be looking at the opportunities out there to develop your business right now and in the future? The keyword is often ‘outsourcing’ and Richard will explain how you can take advantage.

To register for the show, go to www.tradedays. co.uk

Comfort

Corrective postural support

Adjustability

Paediatric, Adult, Bariatric and made to measure

If you are a retailer who knows all about wheelchairs, then we think there are plenty of reasons why you will want to know about us ...

Exceptional comfort

Exceptional life time use

Exceptional seating and corrective posture

Exceptional re-issue qualities

Exceptional adjustment

Exceptional individual/ bespoke designed chairs paediatric, adult, bariatric

Exceptional bespoke possabilities Exceptional Danish build quality

Exceptional unique modular construction that allows

Seat and base to be interchangeable Manual to power tilt in space & full recline & manual to full dynamics power base indoor/outdoor Too many accessories to mention and over 5000 components and growing

Exceptional partners/dealers required contact Ashley on

01905 821407, 07766 463340 or ashley@qimova.com

UK Ltd

SIMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE AS RETAILERS URGED TO GRASP ‘TECHIE’ NETTLE Whilst this summer the Daily Mail says population is growing by 400,000 per year and there are now over 64 million of us in the UK (up 5 million since 2001) death rates are quite static (493,000 in 2010 and 499,000 in 2012) according to the O.N.S. Yet use of smart phones has virtually doubled in the same period.

The Yougov website tells us that 51% of over 55’s used a smartphone in 2012. The website of eMarketer has a lower estimate, but they both agree that smartphone use is now hovering around the 70% mark in the UK. The conclusion…there are more of us, we are living longer and using technology more.

The team at Assistive Partner believe that now is the time for our sector to grasp the nettle and use the technology on offer to make life easier in the business, both for themselves and their customers.

Ian Slaughter, Director of Assistive Technology says: “It is now almost inconceivable to find a shop that does not have barcode scanning at the till. What’s even more rare is to find a modern retailing business that does not have an effective database to keep in touch with its customers and promote the “offer of the week/month/decade” using their Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software.”

That is, Ian suggests, except in our sector and the undertaking business.

He explained: “Agreed, you will not find CRM or barcode reading at the local undertakers, although their associated funeral expense savings policies are sold quite hard. But any other retailing operation that does not move forward and embrace technology will fall behind.

Behind in sales; behind in margins and behind in relevance. In fact, most would be surprised if they survive the next five years. Despite the market demand for mobility equipment and all the other associated assistive technology and services growing at well above 10% per year as

A very simple and very quick

our population ages; the market is tough and questionnaire will tell you whether your ruthlessly competitive.” retail business could “Only the best will survive” he adds as he do with some help uses a couple of quotes to emphasise the point. “Rumi said, more than a thousand years ago, ‘carrying on regardless is not an option’.

Another favourite quote is from the modern philosopher A.G Grayling who said…instead of “ We have developed an instant weeping in the dark, try online business analysis tool. and light at least one candle.”

There are just ten simple So, according to Ian, multiple-choice questions to change is inevitable and businesses need to answer” embrace it if they want to grow.

He believes that Assistive Partner has a simple solution. “We have perfected a specialist mobility retailing software solution which is affordable.

It will help any retailing operation that wants to mmende co over by

Re

d

The Extra Roomy footwear brand that 0 really gives your business extra oomph! 900 s

alth l ProHe a fession

Cosyfeet is the brand for Extra Roomy footwear, socks and hosiery.

Cosyfeet brings more customers to your store - for you to sell more!

Cosyfeet offers a one width fitting which means less complication.

Cosyfeet products encourage repeat business, bringing customers back to your store again and again.

Cosyfeet customers ask for our product by name.

Cosyfeet offers impressive stockist support.

Want to know more? Potential stockists should call John Negus on 01458 449075 or email: johnn@footshopltd.co.uk CF038_V2.indd 1

44 www.thiis.co.uk

www.cosyfeet.com 16/06/2011 09:58

E

x c

l u

s

i

v

E

t

StairSteady

®

o

pat t e r s o n m e d i c a l

A Step Towards Independence

The StairSteady Story The StairSteady was invented by Ruth Amos when she was just 16, as part of her GCSE resistant materials project.

The product was designed as an aid for people with limited mobility to use the stairs. This led to her being named “Young Engineer for Britain 2006”, launching her own business. Ruth has now partnered with Patterson Medical to exclusively distribute the product to the wider market.

What is StairSteady?

The StairSteady is the ideal solution if you have some difficulty getting up and down the stairs but do not require a stairlift.

The innovative device is made up of a handrail attached to the wall and a handle that provides support while you climb the stairs. The handle locks in position when weight is applied allowing you to pull yourself up the stairs and then slide it forwards so that you can climb the next step or two. The handle is used in the same way when coming down the stairs and provides additional security and support.

The StairSteady can be installed with two steadying handles for cases where two people need to use the StairSteady.

Why should I sell the StairSteady?

The StairSteady provides you with a new revenue opportunity by filling a gap in the market A common question we are asked is “Why should I sell a StairSteady when I can sell the customer a stairlift?”

The answer is simple, the StairSteady is not a product to sell instead of a stairlift, it is a product a customer needs before they require a stairlift. The StairSteady sits earlier in the aging process than a stairlift. Once you have sold a customer a StairSteady you then have cemented a relationship with them and if and when they require a stairlift in future – you will be the retailer that they call!

The StairSteady is ideal for individuals who wish to remain active and independent in their own home, but may have some difficulty getting up and down the stairs. The StairSteady is a perfect complementary product to rollators, grab rails, bath boards, raised toilet seats and walking frames. If you are selling rollators, you should be selling the StairSteady!

For more information and installation details visit:

www.stairsteady.net Contact your Area Sales Manager Today to find out more about StairSteady.

Tel: 08444 124 330 Email: retail.sales@pattersonmedical.com

modernise. And it’s used on the internet with a really affordable subscription, from about £17 a day. We’re sure that we can show retailers how our subscription-based; cloud accessed application allows small businesses to gain the advantages enjoyed by their larger competitors with a lot more flexibility.”

The system includes Point of Sale Automation, Barcoding, CRM (Client Relationship Management), Management Control & Automated Purchasing, Inventory Management & Warehouse functionality, Logistics, Billing, Track & Trace and Service Support.

UNIQUS iRetailer is one of a number of specialist web-based software applications from Assistive Partner. The company’s software products are used in many healthcare related services and in other sectors.

The company has a brief questionnaire that retailers can complete.

Ian told us: “To help retailers understand where they are on the journey to modernisation and operational excellence, we have developed an instant online business analysis tool. There are just ten simple multiple-choice questions to answer. Respondents’ results are scored out of a possible 200 maximum points based upon their answers. Depending on the score, we apply a traffic light advice summary outlining THIIS Customise ad 280714:Layout 1

www.gerald-simonds.co.uk

30/7/14

which processes the retailer should focus on to improve their day to day business results. The questionnaire takes less than 30 seconds to complete and the results can be saved by email if required.”

Call 0844 335 6791 or email info@ assistivepartner.co.uk. The website for the product is at www.assistivepartner.co.uk/ iRetailer Assistive Partner will be at Trade Days in October 10:50

VISIT US ON STAND C51 5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

Page 1

The World’s Best Mobility and Seating Solutions

● If your customers want a chair with style and performance, TiLite can help. ● If your customers want to stand up for themselves, Levo can help ● If your customers want to get out and about, FreeWheel can help ● If your customers want a lift, Levo C3 ProActiv can help ● And if you want to deal with the best, TiLite ZRA2 We can help

Call our Dealer Sales Manager Tim Clayton on 07834 651536 to find out more about becoming a Gerald Simonds Dealer or about our referral scheme.

Fitting Choice.

G E R A L D

FreeWheel All-Terrain add on

SIMONDS

The world’s best mobility and seating solutions Gerald Simonds Healthcare Ltd. email: info@gerald-simonds.co.uk

ProActiv Lift FS 35704

www.gerald-simonds.co.uk

Summertime and the living is easy using our TRAVEL & AQUATIC AIDS MANUAL TRANSFER HARNESS

Excellent for trains, planes and coaches Lightweight and easy to carry when not in use

SILVA-SUPERFINE速 REPLACEMENT SLINGS

FLOATATION SLING

Keep cool in quick drying

Silva-Superfine速 fabric IDEAL FOR BATHING

REPLACEMENT LONGSEAT DESIGN

Horizontal & Vertical Designs

GUILLY P ADAPTIVE CLOTHING By Silvalea SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS: Available in: Black Taupe Easy Access Clothing with Coolskyn速 seating panel is ideal for added comfort and great for travel

T: +44 (1626) 332218/331655 F: +44 (1626) 335171 sales@silvalealtd.co.uk

www.silvalealtd.co.uk !

Significant changes for Moving & Handling People The organisers of the Moving & Handling People event have announced changes to the 2015 date that sees the removal of the exhibition element of the event.

The exhibition has been an established dairy date for a number of companies over the years but the number of stands has reduced in recent times. The move sees a greater emphasis on a ‘workshop’ style of event although companies that are featured in the sessions, with delegates using the equipment, will still have a significant involvement.

The 21st anniversary of the event takes places on Tuesday 27th and Wednesday 28th January 2015 at a new venue in the City of London.

Following what the organisers say has been extensive analysis of delegate feedback the

ON VISIT USD45 STAND 2014 October 5th & 6th irmingham NEC B edays.co.uk d www.tra

There will be no exhibition alongside the Moving & Handling People event next year, but companies that supply the equipment for the workshops will be able to get in front of the delegates.

event relocates to Amnesty International’s Human Rights Action Centre facility in Shoreditch.

Chris Shaw, Chief Executive of the organisers, the Disabled Living Foundation said: “The practical Open Forum first introduced in 2014 was a great hit with ‘real life situations’ being discussed and peer reviewed by experts and peers alike. On the lead up to the 2015 event we will be asking delegates to submit their most thorny issues or bring them along to the event.”

More information at www. movingandhandlingpeople.co.uk

Wheelchair Cushions Manufactured in the UK by www.able2.eu E-mail: enquiries@able2.eu Tel: 01254 619000

48 www.thiis.co.uk

E

Healthcare Equipment Providers

UK Design & Manufacturing Sidhil design and manufacture a comprehensive selection of products, improving comfort and quality of life for users and easing carer workloads.

Visit www.sidhil.com to find out more

VISIT US ON STAND E37

Join Sidhil on Stand E37 at Trade Days > welcoming existing distributors, dealers & retailers > catching up with valued suppliers

5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

> making new contacts

Contact us for your nearest distributor: t: 01422 233 000 / e. sales@sidhil.com / w: www.sidhil.com

Hertfordshire choose for Innov8 bed Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust has selected Sidhil’s Innov8 Low bed as an integral part of a plan to upgrade bed stock, replacing existing hydraulic and electric beds with this advanced ward bed which features a minimum platform height of just 218mm – one of the lowest available on the market today.

One of a new generation of NHS community health service Trusts, responsible for delivering a wide range of community health services across Hertfordshire, HCT employs 3,200 staff and is one of the largest employers in the county, operating eight community hospitals.

The order for Sidhil’s Innov8 Low beds is the result of a competitive tender, won on the back of evaluations and trials carried out by East and North Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust. The Trust identified the bed as providing the optimum specification for applications from utility ward

beds through to high dependency environments, doubling as a Low bed in line with the Trust’s ongoing falls prevention strategy.

The Sidhil website is at www.sidhil.com

Walking stick specialists Avoid the ‘hospital look’ with stylish, quality walking sticks, folding canes and seat sticks.

GEL WHEELCHAIR & WALKING AID ACCESSORIES 100’s of quality instant solutions to your pressure care problems that are affordable and easy to fit.

We take away the pressure… …so YOU feel the comfort Please visit us at Trade Days: Stand C57.

Or contact us for our new trade catalogue: Warren House, Hinton St George, Somerset TA17 8TQ Tel +44 (0)1460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk 50 www.thiis.co.uk

01454 285071

E: info@gelovationseurope.com

www.gelovationseurope.com

Looking for a change of direction?

We PROUDLY manufacture in GREAT Britain @ GREAT prices!

•

UK hi

gh qu

ality

manu

factu r

• •

•

Up to

•

Spec

• •

12 sta

nce 2

002

sling

s

faste n

ing

ndard

ial be

spoke

heets

sizes

sling

s

Trans fer be

lts

Bump e

rs

Rang e

of ma t

inclu •

r clip

Slide s

• •

lifting

Loop o

• •

ing si

Patie nt

ding

Rang e Own b

erials

patie

nt sp e

of co lo

cific

urs

Fast d

randi n

g

elive

ry

www.care-ability.co.uk To be a part of a distributor network with an exclusive area please contact....

David Tilly. Care-ability Healthcare Ltd, Phoenix House Walton Road, Pattinson Industrial Estate, Washington, Tyne and Wear, NE38 8QE. Tel: 0191 4159777 or Email: david@care-ability.co.uk

retailer focus

From employee to owner – growth of a family business When Mike Watts was approached to buy the business that he was working in, he and his wife Debbie had a major decision to take. That was back in 2004 and, ten years on; the business is thriving, with a mobility outlet added a few years ago and another on the cards.

Mike was an employee with Shepherd Hospital Equipment Limited, a long established family business of more than 40 years standing, providing a comprehensive service and maintenance package for the NHS and Private Health Sector nationwide.

He joined the firm when he left the Navy after 25 years’ service. His naval background in engineering was an interesting link when researching the Shepherd’s business, it having been founded by an ex-service man originally and taken over by Ken Wilson, also an ex-navy engineer.

It was Ken who made the approach back in 2004 and Mike and Debbie took up the opportunity and have since made it their own.

According to the pair, its success has been based on the dedication to customer satisfaction from initial contact through to completion of service and catering to the needs of individual Trusts.

After learning the ropes and the mechanics of running a company the couple decided to develop another arm to their business.

Recognising a gap in the market locally, they launched Solent Mobility Centre.

Solent Mobility was launched in 2008 and, according to Mike, is considered to have the largest mobility showroom on the South Coast, offering a wide selection of products from wet room installation, beds and furniture to mobility scooters and specialist shoes. The company are also active in the stairlift sector, with both curved and straight stairlifts, which are fitted by their own engineers.

With a background in Customer Service, Debbie is the driving force behind Solent 52 www.thiis.co.uk

The company celebrated a decade in business recently.

Debbie Watts is pictured with the 10 Year celebration Cake

Mobility Centre, while Mike continues to lead on Shepherd’s and both businesses are flourishing.

To promote the reputation of Solent Mobility in the local area the centre is a member of ‘Check-a“The first few years were tough trade’, the only company working hard to learn all the in this field and area to do so, it currently has a skills needed to run a business” 9.9/10 rating.

Debbie told us: “The first few years were tough working hard to learn all the skills needed to run a business, something neither Mike nor myself have ever done before.

Once we felt confident, we were able to start making future plans.”

And it’s very much a family business. “Keeping up the traditions of a family run business, our son Jamie joined us nine years ago, as an engineer with Shepherd’s working alongside his father, Mike, learning on the job day-to-day. Then five years later our younger son Ben came on-board.

Both are now directors, studying and training for There are two leading roles in the businesses allowing for future different businesses, both doing well expansion.”

Mike explained that the company has been

Introducing New Freeway Mobile Hoists...

At Prices You Will Love!

E-Series A highly economical solution to hoisting requirements.

S-Series Highest quality solution to hoisting requirements, complete with electric leg opening.

The new Freeway E-Series and S-Series Mobile Hoists are the latest cost effective additions to our lifting and handling range.

Available with Manual or Powered Leg Opening and at maximum user weight capacities of 160kg and 180kg.

The compact, ergonomic design makes them perfect for use in community or nursing environments and come with a two year warranty.

Designed and Manufactured in the UK

Find out more. Call us on 0845 409 2000 www.prismmedical.co.uk | info@prismmedical.co.uk

2014-07 Thiis - New Mobiles.indd 1

7/11/2014 3:12:13 PM

retailer focus

ABOVE The Solent Mobility team in the showroom

helped by bringing in outside expertise too. “We enrolled with a business coach, about three years ago, which has helped us tremendously.

We meet with him regularly for training and suggestions of how to improve our offering to our end users for Solent Mobility and also our business to business contracts through Shepherd’s. I would highly recommend this tactical approach, when you are working so close to your business you can become blinkered. We have learnt a lot and are confident in making informed decisions to grow both arms of the business.”

“Now our sons are working with us” he added, “we can become more pro-active and allow them to run things and develop both businesses for their families’ futures. “We are about to celebrate our 10th Anniversary of buying Shepherd’s this July and can reflect on an amazing decade of extreme hard work and life changing experiences for all of us.”

Mike and Debbie are firm believers that hard work and drive will get you to where you want to be. They are looking forward to growing both businesses with their sons and keeping the businesses focused on quality of service.

Debbie added; “Getting it right and building a good reputation will gain repeat business and new business will be driven by recommendations. Having a great team of staff with us to support and deliver an excellent service is vital. Likewise their training in our ethics, working practices and offering personal development to staff is equally important to ensure they live the brand, as we do.”

She explained: “The company motto is “Passionate about providing a better quality of life for you and those that you care for. Our staff work very closely as a team to make this a reality and guarantee customer satisfaction from initial 54 www.thiis.co.uk

Guests enjoy the refreshments at the celebration of being in business for 10 years

contact through to completion of sales and after sales service.”

And it seems that, “ When you are working so according to Debbie, further expansion is close to your business you planned. “The next step is become blinkered” to open a second mobility store – we are already looking for premises.”

Contact the company on 023 9255 6564 or email staff@shepherds-ltd.co.uk.

The Watts family The website is at www.solentmobility.co.uk

can

members: Mike, Jamie, Ben and Debbie

LEGAL ONE STOP SHOP CREATED FOR THE MARKETPLACE Companies wanting to protect their product designs, technical processes, computer programmes or trademarks can now access specialist patent advice alongside their wider legal needs, thanks to a ground-breaking move

by Harrison Clark Rickerbys solicitors, The company, which will be delivering a seminar at Trade Days explaining how you can keep an idea safe, has five offices across the country and is thought to be one of the UK’s first regional law firms to offer the intellectual property expertise of two Consultant Patent Attorneys as part of its team – one specialising in the healthcare sector.

Whereas intellectual property services are usually available only through specialist providers – often in London and major cities – the arrival of experienced Chartered and European Patent Attorneys Richard Bailey and Kate Lees will enable regional business clients to access legal advice to access City-quality, affordable legal advice on complex matters such as patents, industrial designs, design rights and copyright.

There are only around 2,000 qualified Patent Attorneys in the UK, and the number of UK patents filed increasing by 4% year on year.

Kate Lees is the firm’s expert in healthcare and medical intellectual property law; advising on inventions such as modified peptides for wound healing, medical devices and assisted living products. She said: “Don’t be tempted to put anything on the market before you have put in a patent application. Also look seriously at an intellectual property audit. All businesses have some kind of IP need, and this can help identify

what needs protecting, as well as a pre-emptive strategy to protect it.”

Richard Bailey is an expert in handling UK and international patent applications for multinationals, smaller companies and individual inventors. He said: “If you have come up with a new idea, make sure you speak to a patent attorney and seek advice regarding whether it is possible - or sensible - to seek protection for it.

Also, keep your invention to yourself/” The company will be running the seminar ‘Got a great idea? Keep it safe’ at Trade Days. If there is any chance of you looking to develop a product in the future, then take this opportunity to get some free advice. Half an hour’s IP advice would normally cost you anything from £100 to £200, but you can get it completely free in this session.

Left to right: Robert Capper, Partner, Commercial Department at Harrison Clark Rickerbys, with Patent Attorneys Kate Lees and Richard Bailey.

EXHIBITION & EVENT GUIDE September 11 2014 - Kidz Scotland, Royal Highland Exhibition Centre, Edinburgh. Call 0161 607 8230/8223 September 24-27 2014 – Rehacare, Dusseldorf. www.rehacare.com October 5-6 2014 – Trade Days, NEC. www.tradedays.co.uk October 20-23 2014 – Medtrade – Atlanta. www.medtrade.com November 4-5 2014 – The Care Show – NEC. www.careshow.co.uk November 12-15 2014 – Medica – Dusseldorf. www.medica.de November 20 2014 – Kidz Up North, Manchester. www.kidzupnorth.co.uk November 26-27 2014 – The OT Show, NEC. www.otshow.co.uk January 26-29 2015 - Arab Health, Dubai. www.arabhealthonline.com January 27-28 2015 – Moving & Handling People, Amnesty International’s Human Rights Action Centre, London. www. movingandhandlingpeople.co.uk March 19 2015 – Kidz In The Middle – Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Call 0161 607 8230/8223 or email info@disabledliving.co.uk March 30 – April 1 2015 – Medtrade Spring, Las Vegas. www.medtrade.com April 28-30 2015 Naidex National – NEC – www.naidex.co.uk June 24-25 2015 – Health+Care, Excel, London. Call 020 7348 5261 www.healthpluscare.co.uk October 27-29 2015 – Medtrade, Atlanta. www.medtrade.com November 16-19 2015 – Medica – Dusseldorf. www.medica.de 56 www.thiis.co.uk

Taking you to the next level Supra (curved) • Supra Linea (straight) • Inclined Platform Lifts Versatility • Quality • Safety • Choice

To find out more about the Supra and Supra Linea inclined platform lifts, or to arrange a no obligation quote, call the UK team on 01642 853 671 Email – info@accessbdd.com Website – www.accessbdd.com Access Business Development Division (Access BDD) / A division of ThyssenKrupp Access Ltd. Unit E3, Eagle Court, De Havilland Avenue, Preston Farm Business Park, Stockton on Tees, TS18 3TB, England

website news

News items are added to the THIIS website every day. Apart from the stories on retailers and suppliers, the news section also carries lots of items on interesting developments in the marketplace. Here are just a few examples. Visit the news section at www.thiis.co.uk for all the latest. You can also sign up for weekly email updates too. from Leicester to the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital in The Gambia.

New online portal for healthcare innovation A new online portal designed to help healthcare innovators turn their ideas into tangible frontline service improvements has been launched.

Innovation Exchange, created and managed by NHS England, brings together for the first time an unprecedented collection of networks, ideas and resources on a single web platform.

Smartphone adapted to help prevent falls Researchers have adapted a smartphone to measure an individual’s walking gait in order to prevent falls. The technology is being commercialised as SmartGait, a tool to assist in assessing an individual’s risk of falling and identifying ways to avoid injury.

500 prosthetic legs arrive in the Gambia 500 prosthetic legs have been delivered to the Gambia by charity Legs4Africa. Legs4Africa started with an ambitious and unusual goal: the safe transportation of a van of prosthetic twion_PressBanner:Layout 1 full 14/4/14 12:43limbs Page 1

Business Schools can play major role for NHS innovation At least half of all hospital admissions worldwide involve older people. In England, as many as 65 per cent of admissions are of people aged 65 or over. It is a major problem and increasingly the NHS and healthcare organisations are looking beyond the sector for innovations. Business schools are ideally placed to play a major role.

They have the potential to bring to the often insular healthcare world insights from other sectors.

Pricing policy introduced for USA marketplace There has been a lot of debate about the prices of products sold online over the past few years in our marketplace and so it is interesting to see one of the leading companies in the business introduce a policy for its home marketplace. Invacare Invacare Corp. has introduced an Internet Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) policy for the United States.

ENERGISE YOUR LIFE • Power assist wheels for active people • Silent and lightweight just 6kg • Bluetooth connectivity to remote control • Speed: 6km/h or optional 10km/h t: 01656 58 www.thiis.co.uk

776222 www.invacare.co.uk

2049RARad.HOMECAREsept09.aw:2049RARad.HOMECAREsept09.aw 16/07/2009 18:18 Page 1

O U R F I N I S H I S O N LY THE BEGINNING...

VISIT US ON STAND D15 5th & 6th October 2014 NEC Birmingham www.tradedays.co.uk

beautifully handcrafted adjustable chairs and beds totally bespoke designs delivery in just seven days unparalleled dealer support

t: 0115 913 3572 e: info@riseandrecline.co.uk www.riseandrecline.co.uk

NEW HEADREST FOR BEE SEATING SYSTEM Jiraffe, UK has launched a new seating system headrest with improved occipital support for toddlers and babies.

The new headrest, for the Bee Seating System uses ‘fingers’ to act like hands, allowing the parent or carer to shape and contour the headrest to cradle the head in the right position for each user. The headrest ensures improved occipital support specifically for younger children and babies with fewer links and a smaller frame. It also features a simple mounting system and has a removable, washable cover.

For more information on the Bee Headrest, visit www.jiraffe.org.uk

AN EVENT FOR OTs…

THAT DELIVERS THE OccupATIONAL THERApy SHOw RETuRNS TO THE NEc, BIRmINgHAm ON THE 26TH & 27TH NOVEmBER 2014 75% of the audience have advisory influence in purchasing products and services

“Very good show for us. Lots of OTs and we have been very busy. We have launched a new product here at the show and it has been great for that. We have booked already for next year because it has been so brilliant.”

Les Jones, careflex

“A very interesting show with high calibre delegates. Over 50% of the people we have spoken to have been senior level OTs.” caroline milne, pivotell

THEOTSHOw.cOm

VITAL STATS

57.3% of visitors have either already placed an order or plan to place an order in the next 12 months.

THE 2013 SHOw FEATuRED: • 2,188 OT’s in attendance • 162 Exhibiting companies • 92 Education sessions • 56 Hours of cpD

94% said they met suppliers and learnt about products that they had not had time to meet or learn about before

95%

95% attended a conference session, making the show an ideal education platform

TImE SpENT AT SHOw: 60% = mORE THAN 5-7 HOuRS 28.8% = mORE THAN ONE DAy If you want to talk to OTs, then talk to us... with 3,000 OTs expected, and over 160 suppliers already booked, the Occupational Therapy Show is a ‘do not miss’ event. cALL cARmELA ON +44 (0)207 348 5767 OR pANAyIOTA ON +44 (0) 207 348 4909 FOR DETAILS NOw.

The New B400

Manoeuvrable and compact

© Ottobock · UK/ADV/MOB/0447

The new B400 is small, versatile and ideal for everyday use, whether in the home, visiting the shops or socialising with friends. The compact design of the B400 allows easy negotiation of doorways and narrow hallways, while its low seat to floor height enables the user to access tables and workstations without any problems. The new B400 is equipped with suspension, providing additional comfort required for longer journeys.

Available options for the B400 • • • • • • • • •

Ottobock · 0845 600 7664 · www.ottobock.co.uk

Optimised frame shape Splash guards Drive wheel suspension Power back angle adjustment, 30° Puncture proof tyres Attendant control Electrically elevating footrests Caster swivel lock 50Ah (C5) AGM batteries

New Irish Stairlift website launched MMS Medical has launched a new website for customers considering the purchase or rental of a stair-lift.

The company says that the new website is fully responsive for viewing on all devices and will replace the technically out-dated mobilitylifts website. It is visually clean, clear, easy to navigate and fully interactive for users of all mobile devices.

Commenting on the launch Gearoid O’Herlihy, Managing Director of MMS Medical stated: “Over the last few years we’ve witnessed a major change in how some customers search for products and make their initial contact with us. As a result, for some product areas, such as stair-lifts we view it as imperative to ensure we’re offering a medium to suit whatever device they may be searching with.”

The new website aims to be as simple, clear and as user friendly as possible for visitors; in order to build confidence and encourage them to make contact.

The new website is at www.stair-lifts.ie

YOU SHALL GO TO THE DAY CENTRE Sunrise Medical came to the rescue of a disabled great-grandmother recently after she had been barred from attending a day centre she loved. Health and safety chiefs had deemed her wheelchair to be made from the ‘wrong kind of metal’. She was featured in the national press after the taxi firm who usually transported her to the council-run pensioners’ centre refused to take her, as her aluminium wheelchair was not crash tested.

Sunrise heard about her predicament and came to her rescue by donating a crash tested Breezy Moonlite.

62 www.thiis.co.uk

THE LUXURY SCOOTER

THAT RIDES LIKE A CAR Introducing the luxurious, Class 3, Freerider FR1 steers and “ridesDrives, like a car, with looks you can take pride in ” ELEGANT HANDLING The height-adjustable, fixed tiller design gives car-like handling, while independent 4-wheel wishbone suspension makes for a smoother ride.

SPORTY LOOKS Take to the road or pavement with rugged good looks, a 35 mile range* and a maximum legal speed of 8mph.

If you’re looking for a mobility scooter that’s earned its right to take its place on the road, look no further than the FR1.

REASSURINGLY SAFE With fixed twin mirrors, LED lighting and indicators and LCD dash, you can see and be seen all the way around.

A pleasure to drive, with looks to take pride in, plus a host of comforting safety features and handy extras you’ll find useful every day, the FR1 is the next-generation scooter for anyone who takes pride in their ride.

HANDY EXTRAS Including an easy access captains seat, double carry bags, and even a USB plug for mobiles or tablets!

www.freeriderfr1.co.uk or call 01535 669604 Email us on sales@freerideruk.co.uk *Varies with user weight, terrain type, battery charge, battery condition and tyre condition.

We reserve the right to change specifications without prior notice.

Freerider UK Ltd, Unit 2C, Acre Park, Dalton Lane, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 4JH, UK.

association update

Association Update BHTA launches its manifesto BHTA has produced a “Manifesto for healthcare and assistive technology”, setting out the case for investment in assistive technology equipment and services, and highlighting the need to enable wider use of prescribing/vouchers/part-funding among patients. The manifesto has been sent to all MPs, CCG contacts and a wide range of opinion-formers and is available on the BHTA website at: www.bhta.net/manifesto

Retailer Forum coming soon Half of all BHTA’s members are retailers, from sole traders up to large national businesses such as Simply Health. We offer a wide range of support to our retail members, but plan to extend this over the next few months with the development of a Retailer Forum.

This will be an additional forum for retailers to discuss common issues, whatever their sector. We expect the Forum to have virtual meetings (over Skype or by conference call) as well as to face-to-face, which we know retailers can find it difficult to make time for. BHTA plans to carry out a survey of retailers to understand their needs from the group more thoroughly, before the launch at Trade Days on 5/6 October.

Getting the most out of National Consumer Week We would very much encourage BHTA members to engage with National Consumer Week in November, for which this year’s theme is doorstep crime. This can be a useful hook for members – particularly retailers - to carry out their own promotional activity, such as direct mail to residents, writing to local media or introducing their business to their local authority as a BHTA member covered by a TSI-approved code of practice.

There is also an opportunity to enter a competition run by the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) to create a 90-second ‘Good Neighbours Stop Rogue Traders’ informational video.

The video should be designed to encourage friends, family, neighbours and carers to help protect vulnerable citizens against doorstep crime. Creators of the winning video will receive a £1,000 prize and will have their video played by Trading Standards Officers and community partners across the country as part of an educational campaign. More details are available at: www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/events/2014. cfm

Time is money So when you’re planning your visit to Trade Days, get even more value from your time by attending our networking social night on 5 October. This is an ideal opportunity to extend your contacts and network with the industry in a relaxed, informal atmosphere after the first day of the show.

The perfect way to wind down, but with the opportunity to talk business and make new contacts, the event include we have a pub quiz, hot buffet, table football, air hockey and even a giant Scalextric track.

Book your place today: www.tradedayssocial.eventbrite. co.uk 64 www.thiis.co.uk

Pointing the way – to your business?

Under the provisions of the Care Act, local authorities have a duty to provide assessments. However, not every member of the public will meet their local authority’s eligibility criteria to be provided with equipment that could benefit them. Where that’s the case, local authorities are required to offer signposting to reliable private providers/retailers – but how will they know which businesses to signpost to?

Membership of Consumer Codes of Practice (such as the TSI Approved Code operated by BHTA), is a simple means of recognising businesses that can be trusted. BHTA will be writing to all local authorities, highlighting what our Code means and the businesses in their area that are signed up to it, offering a straightforward way for them to signpost customers to professional, ethical suppliers.

A number of local authorities are looking to set up/endorse networks of suitably accredited retailers, such as the “Safe + Well” scheme being piloted by NRS Healthcare. This makes it more important than ever for retail members to engage, and for non-BHTA members to consider the benefits of joining and becoming accredited.

PROMOTING YOUR START-UP Have you started a new assistive technology business in the last three years? Are you proud of what you’ve achieved and looking to promote your company further?

Why not enter the Best New Business category in the British Healthcare Awards?

With an electronic entry process that costs just £25, this is is an easy, cost-effective way to raise your profile and demonstrate how proud you are of your work. We will profile all entrants on the BHTA website and in the Bulletin (sent to MPs, opinion formers and CCGs), and all our winners will be presented at the annual Awards dinner on 11 December. Whether or not you walk away with the Best New Business award, this is a great opportunity to network, meet peers in the industry and make new connections.

Simply complete the entry form at www.bhta.net/ awards, return it to us with payment details and we’ll provide a link for you to upload your entry. It’s quick, simple and you have until 15 September 2014 to get your entry in.

We also promote members’ news – whether that’s a new business, new premises or growing sales – in our quarterly magazine, the Bulletin. If you have an article for inclusion, please contact kate.webster@bhta.com with 250 words of copy and a high-resolution photo.

Supplying quality for 50 years Technology Ltd

mm

670

HADDON BED Features & Benefits: • Coolmax zip cover • Vasco topper • 203mm mattress • Choice of headboards • Drawers (optional) TAMWORTH CHAIR Features & Benefits: new!

• Tilt & space • Generous & soft padding throughout • Solid steel chassis & hardwood frame • Choice of fabrics • Lifting capacity – 35 stone

The answer to all your specialist care furniture needs. With almost 50 years experience manufacturing and crafting chairs and furniture, you’re in good hands. We’re proud to be a trusted partner to mobility shops, care homes, medical centres and schools nationwide.

Technology Ltd

0800 0373 044

www.nhc-technology.co.uk sales@nhc-technology.co.uk

jobs on offer Jiraffe Sales and Customer Support Team Leader After going through a recent expansion we are now looking for an enthusiastic and inspiring ‘people person’ to run our Sheffield-based, inbound Sales and Customer Support Team. Our ideal candidate will have experience in getting the most out of both systems and people when supporting sales and providing outstanding levels of customer service. You will be accomplished in the use of CRM systems and bring to the role an ability to review and develop established office procedures to fit with the capabilities of our new system - bringing improvements in speed, efficiency and customer experience.

It is essential that you are able to promote our brand values in every aspect of your work and engage with our existing friendly and knowledgeable team to provide clear direction and robust support. We are looking for someone who is just at ease picking up the phone when things are busy as they are in providing performance feedback and regular training to their team. Setting and delivering departmental goals in line with the overall company strategy will be a key part of this role. A background in actively managing performance to targets in a customer service environment is vital with experience of creating those targets providing a distinct advantage.

The successful candidate will be responsible for providing detailed and accurate sales data to the Sales Operations Manager and Steering Group and will be expected to have an up to date picture of sales day to day. This varied role also gives opportunities to be involved in the activities of our strong external sales team – assisting the Sales and Marketing managers in planning and delivering projects of varying scale, with some scope to travel within the UK and support the external Sales Team at national events.

You will undergo a comprehensive induction programme and in return for your commitment and hard work can expect a competitive salary and holiday allowance with access to a pension, subsidised healthcare-cashback scheme and opportunities for progression. Jiraffe colleagues enjoy a wide range of benefits including a personal ‘elected-learning’ fund which can be used for to pay for anything from your gym membership to skydiving lessons!, regular social events and paid time off to participate in fundraising activities.

For an informal chat about the role please contact sally.hamshaw@jenx.com. Applications via agencies will not be accepted.

Essential Requirements • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Experience in developing a CRM system • A hands-on approach to people-management • Experience in resolving escalated complaints • An empathetic approach to circumstances and needs of our customers • IT literate • Proven success in managing people to deliver against departmental targets Desirable Attributes Educated to degree level Experience working within the medical devices industry Experience in setting goals in line with company strategy Contact details Sally Hamshaw, HR Manager Email CV to sally.hamshaw@jenx.com

Sales Agents Regency Recliners is a well-established rise and recline manufacturer based in the West Midlands. We supply custom-made chairs to the NHS, mobility shops, nursing homes, and healthcare sector.

We require driven and experienced self-employed sales agents with a comprehensive knowledge in the mobility sector, to develop our sales nationwide.

We will require our agents to promote our custom-built electrically powered rise and recline chairs in all mobility areas.

Interested applicants, please send your CV to...

Mrs A Reynolds Regency Recliners Limited Units A1 & A2 Chapel Street Dudley, West Mids. DY2 9PN info@regencyrecliners.co.uk 01384 240444

Trade Days Social Night

Mobility Technicians Clearwell are recruiting additional technicians for their engineering and installation teams. The roles will be field based covering the Sussex, Surrey and Kent areas.

5 October 2014

Key responsibilities will include: •

•

•

Diagnosing and repairing mobility equipment including scooters, wheelchairs, powerchairs, rise recliners, beds, hoists and bath lifts

•

Undertaking servicing of equipment to manufacturer’s guidelines

•

Surveying and installing stairlifts and ramps

•

Maintaining detailed job related paperwork

Unpacking, assembling and testing new equipment

Delivering and installing products in customer’s homes including product demonstrations and guidance on safe use of the equipment

This is a great opportunity to join one of the UK’s fastest growing mobility retailers.

Clearwell currently operates a network of six showrooms in East and West Sussex with a funded plan to grow to 14 showrooms across the South East within the next 3 years. This continued expansion will offer excellent career opportunities to the right candidates.

For further information and to apply, please go to our website...

www.clearwellmobility.co.uk/careers

8pm-10.30pm National Motorcycle Museum Network with colleagues and contacts in a relaxed, informal atmosphere off-site at the National Motorcycle Museum with a pub quiz, table football, air hockey and even a giant Scalextric track.

It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day at the show, but with the opportunity to talk business and make new contacts.

STOP PRESS!

...and complete the application form.

Clearwell are also recr uiting for an area manager and additional showroom staff – see website for furth er details.

Sales Advisor – Jiraffe We are looking for outgoing, ‘people people’ to join our expanding sales team in the South of England. If you are an ambitious self-motivator and able to talk easily to people from all walks of life then we want to hear from you! This varied role will put you at the forefront of our customer relationships, building relationships with children with special needs, their parents/carers, therapists and other members of the multidisciplinary team as well as key decision makers in public sector procurement.

The right candidate will be keen to put in the hours required to increase turnover in their territory, in return they will get the satisfaction of making a real difference to the lives of disabled children, access to a company vehicle, iPad, phone and a great range of other benefits and an uncapped commission structure. There is a lot of driving involved in this role and the equipment you’ll be selling can be big and heavy (although it’s all on wheels!) so you should be able to cope easily with those demands.

Knowledge and understanding of the human body, in particular the muscular and skeletal systems would be an advantage, degrees in topics such as sports science, anatomy and human biology and physiology lend themselves well to this role, as would any previous background working with children with special needs. However enthusiasm, outstanding presentation skills and the ability to organise your own workload efficiently are the really key things we will be looking at. Due to the nature of this role a DBS check will be required from the successful candidate.

Essential Requirements • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Outstanding presentation skills • A hands-on approach to equipment use and maintenance • Good time management skills • Well presented • An empathetic approach to circumstances and needs of our customers • IT literate • Full driving licence with no more than 6 penalty points • Physically able to move and lift equipment as required Desirable Attributes • Educated to degree level • Experience working with children with special needs Contact details Sally Hamshaw, HR Manager Email CV to sally.hamshaw@jenx.com

The bar’s open from 8pm, the quiz will start at 8.30 – feel free to form your own team, or we’ll help you find one on arrival – and the evening will finish around 10.30pm.

A hot fork buffet, entry to the pub quiz and unlimited tests of your sporting skill on the giant Scalextric, air hockey and table football are all included in the £25 ticket.

Book your night out now at... tradedayssocial.eventbrite.co.uk

SAFE HANDLING LEAFLET FOR MANUAL WHEELCHAIRS The National Back Exchange has produced a new advisory leaflet on safe handling of a manual wheelchair.

NBE says that many carers have little training in wheelchair use. This leaflet summaries the important information that needs to be considered and includes the Do’s and Don’ts of using a wheelchair, how to open and close a wheelchair, getting in and out of a wheelchair, pushing a wheelchair on the level, uphill and downhill, negotiating steps, kerbs and doorways, loading a wheelchair into a vehicle and how to push a wheelchair from the user’s perspective.

The packs contain 20 copies and the cost is £5 per pack and might be a useful resource for companies that want to give their customers more information when they buy a product.

For further information go to www.nationalbackexchange. org.uk

Dealers sought for Timo UK

®

Timo UK are pleased to be able to offer the TIMO Shower Trolley range throughout the United Kingdom. Available in 3 sizes in both Electric and Manual models, Timo UK are able to cater for most showering situations.

Trolleys can be purchased individually, delivered direct to your client, or in batches delivered to your warehouse.

High Low Hydraulic Shower Trolley

Electric Shower Trolley

£19

£23

69

76

Wall Mounted Shower Stretcher

£26

75

Free shipping on pallet deliveries to UK business address.

Home delivery POA. All prices shown are Dealer Prices.

Tel 01257 472255

www.timouk.com Email sales@timouk.com

Gateway to the Scandinavian market

Health & Rehab Scandinavia

NEW OPPORTUNITY

9 -11 September 2014 · Bella Center · Copenhagen · Denmark MANUFACTURER LOOKING FOR RETAILERS

Horizon Mobility, manufacturer of Heavy Duty and Off Road Mobility Scooters, but equally at home in the Street jungles Healthcare markets of Denmark and Scandinavia attractsHigh world attention

Danish Rehabilitation Group invites the entire industryNEW and allOPPORTUNITY actors in the social, healthcare and assistive technology sectors to becomeLocal a partareas, of first retailer in an area will have exclusivity Scandinavia’s largest trade exhibition.

NEW PRODUCTS Currently the available models are the Saxon, Aztec and Mayan AC. The Mayan AC is the world’s most powerful in mobility The exhibition offers a unique opportunity of presenting your company the scooter and the first one powered by a 3 phase induction AC motor. The Mayan AC also has right forum and of getting in touch with many key persons of the social, a maximum user weight of 65 stone.

Get in touch with the right people

healthcare and assistive technology sectors.

EXCELLENT MARGIN In 2014 the exhibition sets focus on “An Independent Life”.

Exhibition Office: Tel. +45 61 22 57 56 · Tel. +45 40 15 91 51 info@health-rehab.com · www.health-rehab.com

Organizer:

With exclusive areas and lack of Internet discounting as each scooter is individually built for the customer, margins are maintained.

CALL 01242 223000 or visit www.horizonmobility.com Horizon Mobility Ltd, 10 Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham. GL52 9FB

NEW RETAIL OPPORTUNITY DISTRIBUTOR LOOKING FOR UK RETAILERS Horizon Mobility Ltd has been appointed the UK distributor for the American built Amigo TravelMate scooter. With a durable but lightweight aluminium frame and lithium batteries, these scooters are built to last. The TravelMate folds into one piece, weighing a manageable 24 kg

ACT FAST TO SECURE AN EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTION AREA! Have exclusivity, don’t wait, you will miss this opportunity

NEW PRODUCT TO UK MARKET New to the UK market, the TravelMate is the first Amigo scooter to be widely distributed. With benefits including high quality construction, simple folding and a 2-year manufacturers warranty, the TravelMate is a contender in the small folding transportable's market.

BENEFICIAL MARGINS The Amigo TravelMate is not available on the internet, and exclusive selling areas are available to retailers who act quickly. To seize the opportunity to promote this exciting product and increase your sales, contact Horizon Mobility Ltd.

Call 01242 223000

Or visit the website www.amigoscooters.co.uk

retailer focus

18 YEARS UP FOR RETAIL LIFT COMPANY It’s 18 years since lift engineer Steve Wakefield launched Clevedon-based Dolphin Lifts Western Ltd. Having recently relocated to a purpose-built, 4,000sq ft office and warehouse facility, the company supplies to a number of local authorities through tenders and to housing associations and care agencies across North Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Bristol and the whole of Somerset.

“The business has gone from strength to strength since it was founded by my wife Avril and I in 1996, and I am really proud to see that Dolphin is still successful after so many years,” said Steve. “We have been able to withstand the test of time over the years and have overcome two major recessions and the emergence of a great deal of competition from rival companies.”

Steve told us why he thinks the company has

Embroidery Service Now Available E-mail: enquiries@able2.eu 70 www.thiis.co.uk

grown over the years. “I believe this is down to our refusal to employ hard sales techniques. We have no affiliation with any one manufacturer and our staff receive no commission for pushing particular products. We only ever provide our customers with the products that meet their requirements.”

The company is truly family-orientated, with Steve, Avril and eldest son Tom at the helm as directors. Youngest son Nick recently came on board as servicing and surveys manager while his wife Stacy manages the busy office and takes on all marketing roles.

The company can be contacted on 0800 169 3404 or go to www.dolphinliftswestern.co.uk

The team together.

From left to right: Stacy Heaven (office manager) Nick Wakefield (Servicing and Surveys manager) Jason King (Engineer) Mark White (Engineer) Simon Andrews (Engineer) Tom Wakefield (Director) Steve Wakefield (Managing Director) Avril Wakefield (Director and accounts)

VISIT US ON STAND D45 Wet Weather Wear from Able2

Tel: 01254 619000

5th & 6 th O NEC Bir ctober 2014 mingha www.tr m aded ays.co.u k

www.able2.eu

training diary

Doing any training?

If you are providing training for the trade, then simply send us the details of the course, the date, any costs, the venue and the contact for booking places and we’ll include it in the Diary. Email info@thiis.co.uk with any details you have.

AUGUST 2014 R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children. August 12th & 13th – Block 2: Technical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block Global Training by Silvalea – Manual Handling Products. 12th Aug. Interactive Online Training. FOC. Global Training by Silvalea – Manual Handling Products. 13th Aug. Interactive Online Training. FOC.

Electric Mobility – Servicing / maintenance & fault finding for Rascal Mobility products. 20 August. Ilminster. FOC including lunch.

R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children. August 26th & 27th – Block 3: Clinical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block

SEPTEMBER 2014 Disabled Living - Dementia: Working together to build a brighter future, 2nd September, Disabled Living, Worsley, M28 2LY, FOC

Invacare Ltd - Servicing and Maintenance of Patient Lifters – Tuesday 16th September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Disabled Living - Emergency Evacuation of Disabled and Older People, 3rd September. Disabled Living, Manchester, M8 8QA, FOC

R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children. August 16th & 17th – Block 2: Technical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block

Disabled Living - Trusted Assessor - 4 day course. Day 1 4/9/14, Day 2 - 11/9/14, Day 3 - 18/9/14 Day 4 - 25/9/14.

Disabled Living, Worsley, M28 2LY. £400 + VAT Invacare Ltd - Pressure & Posture in Wheelchair Seating – Tuesday 2nd September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Invacare Ltd – Robin Overhead Hoists – Wednesday 17th September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Invacare Ltd – Servicing, Maintenance and Adjustments in Invacare Manual Chairs – Wednesday 3rd September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Disabled Living, Moving & Handling Trainers & Assessors - 5 day course. Day 1 - 17/9/14, Day 2 - 24/9/14, Day 3 - 1/10/14, Day 4 - 8/10/14, Day 5 - 15/10/14, Disabled Living, Worsley, M28 2LY £650 + VAT

Invacare Ltd - Servicing, Maintenance and Adjustments in Invacare Power Chairs – Thursday 4th September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Global Training by Silvalea – Introduction to Slings - 17th Sept.

Interactive Online Training. FOC.

Disabled Living - Safe Use of Bed Rails – 10th September.

Disabled Living, Worsley, M28 2LY, £50.00 + VAT Invacare Ltd – Fault Finding on Power Chairs – Wednesday 10th September – FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders Sunrise Medical - Manual Mobility Selection: Linking Assessment to Appropriate Prescription (CMAN) - Wednesday 10th September - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children. August 10th & 11th – Block 1: Mechanical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block

Global Training by Silvalea – Paediatric Sling Solutions - 18th Sept. Interactive Online Training. FOC. Invacare Ltd – Pressure Ulcer Awareness and Mattress Care – Tuesday 23rd September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders Invacare Ltd – Pressure Ulcer Awareness and Mattress Care – Tuesday 23rd September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders Disabled Living, Housing Adaptations: Creating accessibility and promoting independence, 23/09/2014, Disabled Living, Worsley, M28 2LY, FOC Sunrise Medical – Seating & Positioning for Function & Mobility (for dealers) (CDEA) – Wednesday 24th September - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders

Sunrise Medical – Manual Wheelchair Assessment (CMDE) – Thursday 11th September - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders

Pride - Introduction to Pride Mobility Products Technical Trouble Shooting – September 24th-25th – Fee of £170 +VAT inc – Includes B&B and dinner for one night, and lunch for both days.

Invacare Ltd – Power Chair Controls – Thursday 11th September – FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Global Training by Silvalea – Amputee Sling Solutions - 24th Sept.

Interactive Online Training. FOC.

72 www.thiis.co.uk

The Perfect Package Deal From Handicare

Travel Track: compact construction with integral carry case Handicare’s Travel Track portable gantry system can be easily packed away into its robust integral carry case. This non intrusive gantry does not require any fixing which makes it a great solution for those with short term lifting requirements.

RisePorto: strong yet lightweight Handicare’s RisePorto is one of the smallest and lightest portable hoists available (5.8kgs) yet it provides safe and secure lifting for clients up to 205kgs and is compatible with all rail systems.

Buy the two together for only

£1,995

Travel Track and RisePorto The Perfect Package Deal

To find out more about our Travel Track package or the other products call your Handicare representative or our Dealer Support team on 0844 225 3121

www.handicare.co.uk

The Travel Track portable gantry and RisePorto portable hoist cassette are now available as a package from Handicare. These products provide a portable, easily removable solution for those who need an assisted lift in the home or when they are travelling.

training diary SEPTEMBER 2014 Global Training by Silvalea – Complex Sling Solutions 1 - 25th Sept. Interactive Online Training. FOC. Sunrise Medical – JAY Product Training for Dealers (PJAY) – Thursday 25th September - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders Invacare Ltd – Servicing and Maintenance of Mattress Pumps –

Thursday 25th September - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children.

September 30th – October 1st – Block 3: Clinical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block

OCTOBER 2014 Sunrise Medical – Wednesday 1st October - Powerchair Service and Maintenance - Mechanics (TPSM4) - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders Sunrise Medical – Thursday 2nd October - Powerchair Service and Maintenance - Electronics and Diagnostics (TPSM2) - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders Invacare Ltd - Scooter Servicing and Maintenance – Tuesday 2nd October - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders Invacare Ltd - Community Bed Maintenance and Servicing – Wednesday 8th October - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Invacare Ltd - Invacare Manual Wheelchairs – Tuesday 21st October - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children. October 21st & 22nd – Block 2: Technical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block Invacare Ltd – Kuschall – Wednesday 22nd October - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Electric Mobility – Servicing / maintenance & fault finding for Rascal Mobility products. 08 October. Ilminster. FOC including lunch.

Sunrise Medical – Wednesday 22nd October - Mobility & Seating System Selection: a Paediatric Focus (CPAE) - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders

R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children. October 8th & 9th – Block 1: Mechanical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block

Pride - Introduction to Pride Mobility Products Technical Trouble Shooting – October 22nd-23rd – Fee of £170 +VAT inc –Includes B&B and dinner for one night, and lunch for both days.

Global Training by Silvalea – Complex Sling Solutions 2 - 22nd Oct. Interactive Online Training. FOC.

Invacare Ltd - Servicing and Maintenance of Mattress Pumps – Thursday 9th October - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders

Global Training by Silvalea – Toileting Sling Solutions - 23rd Oct. Interactive Online Training. FOC.

BHTA - BTEC Stoma and Continence Support - 14-15 October 2014 – Wellingborough. Member cost £399.00. Non-member cost £512.00.

R82 UK Ltd - Structured Training in the Management of Medical Devices – Posturally Supportive Equipment for Children.October 28th & 29th – Block 3: Clinical - City & Guilds Accredited and endorsed by the College of Occupational Therapists. Halesowen. £185 +VAT per Block

Global Training by Silvalea – In-Situ Sling Solutions - 15th Oct. Interactive Online Training. FOC. Global Training by Silvalea – Sizing & Measuring Slings - 16th Oct. Interactive Online Training. FOC. Invacare Ltd - Servicing and Maintenance of Patient Lifters – Thursday 16th October - FOC to Invacare Ltd account holders.

BHTA - BTEC Healthcare and Assistive Technology -21/22 October 2014 - Wellingborough. Member cost £415.00. Nonmember cost £540.00.

Sunrise Medical – Wednesday 29th October - Scooter and Powerchair Service and Maintenance (TPSM1) - FOC to Sunrise Medical account holders Pride - Quantum Rehab powerchair training programme Thursday 30th October - A deposit is required for each delegate which will be returned once the course has been attended.

CONTACTS FOR BOOKINGS BHTA - Call 0207 702 2141 or email nigel.woods@bhta.com Invacare – Call Joan James on 01656 776283 or email jjames@invacare.com Prism Medical – Call Cheryl Murdock on 0844 980 2260 or email: traininginfo@prismmedical.co.uk Sunrise Medical – Laura Payne on 01384 421 538, email laura.payne@sunmed.co.uk, or visit www.SunriseMedical.co.uk/STEPS Global Training by Silvalea - +44 (0) 1626 331655 info@silvalea-globaltraining.com or visit www.trainingbysilvalea.com Quantum Rehab – Call 01869 324600 or email sales@pride-mobility.co.uk Pride Mobility – Call 01869 324600 or email service@pride-mobility.co.uk R82 UK Ltd – Call 0121 561 2222, or email Martyn Davis on mda@r82.com Disabled Living – Call 0161 607 8200 or email training@disabledliving.co.uk. www.disabledliving.co.uk/Training/Events---Courses Electric Mobility – Call Sharon Newton on 01460 258118 or email sharon.newton@electricmobility.co.uk 74 www.thiis.co.uk

You’ll find a chair to suit every customer’s budget in our Gold, Silver and Bronze range • • • • • • • • • •

Manufactured in Britain Extensive Range of Actions 8 Styles of back 5 Styles of Arms Large Fabric and leather Selection Hardwood Frames, manufactured in our own Woodmill.

Home Installation Service Large Selection of Matching Sofas Stylish Selection of Adjustable Beds Full Range of Accessories

Units 5 & 6 brookhill Industrial Estate, Pinxton, Notts, NG16 6NT 01773 580500 | phoenixupholstery@hotmail.com

www.phoenix-upholstery.co.uk

CHIEVE MORE J O I N T H E E N H a N C E d T G a A - C L a S S R E Ta I L E R S C H E M E

ENHANCED DiSCouNtS EXtENDED wArrANtiES puNCturE SEALANt AS StANDArD pAiD CALL outS priority DELivEriES & wArrANty rEturNS prE-DELivEry ApprovED ‘out-of-A-boX’ SuppLy DEDiCAtED SErviCE CoNtACt proDuCt & SErviCE trAiNiNg QuArtErLy rEviEwS ADvErtiSiNg & pr Support EXCLuSivE offErS for AN A-CLASS SCHEME broCHurE:

01787 882244 SALES@tgAMobiLity.Co.uk www.tgAMobiLity.Co.uk

GU I

D RL

ESS WO NN TGA & Steve Tarrant

RE

The UK’s leading range of mobility products, since 1985

Goodwood Motor Circuit

CO

Team of the Year

PT

2014

R D AT T E M

WE’RE READY TO DO BUSINESS AT TRADE DAYS, NEC, 5-6 OCTOBER, STAND E10

0729TGAadThiisJunOBC14v2.indd 1

27/05/2014 17:56

THIIS is produced for BHTA Engage by: Homecare Publishing Ltd, The Stables, 16c High Street, Rushton, NN14 1RQ Tel: 01536 710050 E-mail: info@thiis.co.uk Providing news and views in

the trade since 1999 BHTA Engage Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without the written permission of the publisher. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher and although every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate, the publishers take no responsibility for errors or omissions.