THIIS April 2023

Page 1

Also inside...

Top mobility scooter recommendations

RHealthcare: Spreading its wings in mobility

Mountfield Services lifts the lid on its success

Coronation fever

Mobility retailers gear up for the coronation of HRH King Charles

ISSUE 295 APRIL 2023 TRADE MAGAZINE
5 Y E A R P A R T S & L A B O U R W A R R A N T Y P A R T S & L A B O U R W A R R A N T Y 30 mile range T o f i n d o u t m o r e a b o u t o u r 5 Y e a r W a r r a n t y C A L L 0 8 4 4 2 5 7 8 1 5 0 EXPLORE OUR PRODUCTS Heaviest part 10kg Weighs just 17 9kg Heaviest part 10kg R A N G E R A N G E Heaviest part 13kg Available on Most advanced folding powerchair range R A N G E

This year’s Naidex event in Birmingham saw a huge turnout with end-users and mobility retailers alike coming to check out the latest mobility innovations, some of which I’m looking forward to sharing with readers of THIIS over the coming issues. Among these firms was RHealthcare, the UK distributor of the Robooter range of powered wheelchairs. Read more about this rapidly expanding firm on page 26.

As new stairlift regulations come into force for the European stairlift industry this month, THIIS finds out how firms, including Access BDD, are preparing to meet the new criteria (p14).

In keeping with the stairlifts theme, Lee Anderson, Manager of Essex-based Mountfield Services, discusses his firm’s growth as a lift specialist (p18). Now in its 27th year, this family firm has forged a successful partnership with stairlift giant Handicare.

Meanwhile, in this month’s Trade Thoughts (p34) we take a closer look at how mobility suppliers, such as Handicare, are successfully embracing digital technology, especially with regards to communicating with their retail partners.

In the second part of his feature series about seating measurements for wheelchairs (p36), Dr Barend ter Haar from BES Healthcare reviews how angles ultimately relate to a person’s seating system and how these serve the end-user’s needs.

You will also not want to miss the top mobility scooter recommendations in the Retailers’ Choice (p8) and Buyers’ Guide (p40) features.

As ever, if you have any news to share about your retail business please do not hesitate to get in touch with me (contact details below). Enjoy the issue.

www.thiis.co.uk / 3 WELCOME Stay up to date... @wwwthiiscouk facebook.com/THIIS.Magazine linkedin.com/company/thiis-magazine THIIS is produced by BHTA Engage, Office 404, Tower Bridge Business Centre, 46-48 E Smithfield, Whitechapel, London E1W 1AW 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. Inside... Regulars News, deals and people Retailers’ Choice: Mobility scooters 36 Let’s Get It Clear: Seating measurements 40 Buyers’ Guide: Mobility scooters 07917 784929 / liane@thiis.co.uk 07384 258 372 / joe.fahy@bhtaengage.com TRADE MAGAZINE
From the editor Welcome!
26
Editor

News, deals & people

Rehasense UK supports London Marathon fundraiser

Medical equipment supplier Rehasense UK has announced that it will be supporting Dan Metcalfe with one of its carbon fibre Track Wheel attachments, as he prepares to take part in this year’s London Marathon in aid of Spinal Research.

Dan works for Draft Wheelchairs, a mobility retailer in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, and when the store took delivery of a Track Wheel he immediately realised what a difference it could make to his marathon plans.

He added: “I hadn’t seen one before so I contacted Jordan at Rehasense to explain what I was doing, and he agreed that it would make a real difference. Without hesitation he sent me one, which was just amazing, and such a kind thing to do.”

The 12” Track Wheel transforms a manual wheelchair into an agile tricycle to enable wheelchair users to experience greater freedom. Its single-arm model is used with rigid wheelchairs while the double-arm model, which Dan has, is used with foldable wheelchairs featuring fixed integrated footrests.

Rise & Recline appoints new Area Sales Manager

Adjustable chairs and beds specialist Rise & Recline has announced the appointment of Edward Morley to the position of Area Sales Manager for the East Coast of England.

Edward has been with the business for over three years.

Since joining the business in 2020, Ed has worked in all areas of the business from manufacturing and the warehouse to the sales and productions offices.

Completing the family triangle at Rise and Recline is Melissa Morley, who has been with the company for two years and is the Customer Relations & Marketing Assistant.

Melissa is responsible for maintaining a regular contact between the Rise & Recline head office and its UK dealer network.

She also works closely with the company’s White Glove Delivery Team and manages all Stainguard warranty applications.

HANDICARE‘S ONLINE ACADEMY

Stairlift giant Handicare Accessibility has announced the next step in its digital strategy in recognition of the way its dealers are embracing online training and technical support. The Handicare Online Academy is giving engineers access to videos, presentations and manuals to provide all the expertise they need to install and maintain its new Handicare 4000 stairlift. Training can be completed anywhere using a laptop, mobile or tablet and has been created by Handicare’s specialist tech support team.

SIRUS AUTOMOTIVE CONVERTS THE DACIA JOGGER

WAV provider Sirius Automotive has converted the Dacia Jogger into the only wheelchair accessible car for sale on the UK market. The result, it says, is an industry first – a family-friendly car designed to accommodate up to six people, including one wheelchair passenger. The conversion enables wheelchair access via a lightweight ramp. A lower floor level gives the Darius Jogger a seated head height of 139cm, ensuring a wheelchair user can sit comfortably. Meanwhile, the mid-row seats can be folded out of the way to create additional space, or left in place, so a wheelchair user can sit with other rear-seat passengers.

4 / www.thiis.co.uk NEWS, DEALS & PEOPLE
in brief...
A round-up of the key trade stories for business leaders to digest

Mobility Giant launches trade website

Used mobility scooter supplier Mobility Giant has launched a website exclusively for trade customers, enabling them to purchase highquality mobility scooters and powerchairs at a heavily discounted price.

Mobility Giant is Motability’s largest collection agent, serving key regions across the UK. Now its hugely successful customer-facing model has been adapted for trade use.

The new arm of the Mobility Giant website will exclusively facilitate trade customers with mobility scooters and powerchairs, prepped to showroom standard, available to purchase.

For trade customers the website means that it has never been easier to access multipoint checked products at a fraction of the cost of new.

Trade customers can enter the new site via a unique log-in on Mobility Giant’s home page. Once accessed, fuss-free navigation will allow trade to purchase product in a matter of clicks.

Stock will be delivered to a retailer’s showroom or warehouse within 3-5 days, with free delivery on orders of six products or more.

Electric Mobility launches new mobility scooters

Mobility equipment distributor Electric Mobility enjoyed a successful launch of its latest mobility scooters at Naidex, which took place at Birmingham’s NEC last month.

Products on show included the Rascal VelumiLi, a lightweight 28.8kg aluminium boot scooter with a front section weighing 10.2kg. The scooter incorporates British-made “state-of-the-art” lithium ferro-phosphate battery technology which is warranted for a design life of over 1,000 cycles, providing an increased efficiency and performance to stand up to everyday life.

Electric Mobility is also set to launch the VelumiLi DX, an upgraded version of the VelumiLi that offers the additional advantages of a 25Ah LifePO4 battery, increasing the range up to 26 miles, and featuring a delta tiller, USB charging port and all-round suspension.

The supplier has incorporated lithium ferro-phosphate battery technology into other products in the Rascal range, including the new Veo Sport LiFe which offers a range of up to 14.4 miles, and will also have a 12.4Ah lithium ferrophosphate battery, weighing 4.7kg.

CHUNC PARTNERS WITH BES HEALTHCARE

Posture and mobility specialist Chunc has announced the appointment of BES Healthcare, a UK supplier of assistive technology solutions, as its distributor in Ireland and Northern Ireland for a second term.

Lucinda Sharp-Smith, Director of Chunc, commented: “Having an on-the-ground presence is critical to us, providing a direct way to showcase our product innovations with the local market.

“They are also planning several initiatives which will help further spread the word about the unparalleled level of postural support and adaptability offered by Chunc.”

STANNAH MAKES THE WHICH? LIST

Stairlift and home lift company Stannah has received recognition as a Which? Recommended Provider stairlift brand, with an overall satisfaction rating of 75 per cent. The results follow a survey of four stairlift brands in December 2022. Which? surveyed 663 individuals who had purchased a stairlift, whether for themselves or another person, in the past 10 years. Of those surveyed, 228 were Stannah customers, and three-quarters had bought their stairlifts within the past five years. The consumer choice experts claim to have only been impressed enough by one brand to grant it Which? Recommended Provider status.

Mayor cuts the ribbon on Ableworld Thatcham

Mobility retailer Ableworld has announced the opening of its newest store in Thatcham, Berkshire, with the Mayor of Thatcham, Jeff Brooks, officially cutting the ribbon.

Boasting an enviable location in the heart of Thatcham, the showroom kicked off its opening week with a launch party, offering customers plenty of goodies, refreshments, discounts and prizes to be won.

The 2,500 square foot superstore, which is open Monday to Saturday, is showcasing a vast array of mobility equipment, ranging from mobility scooters and powerchairs to smaller aids and everyday essentials.

Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare launches the UltraFold

Following the success of the Auto Folding Dual Wheel Scooter, Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare has launched the UltraFold, a new premium four-wheel model fusing contemporary design, safety, comfort, and high performance.

The remote-folding model features a slimline design, modern twin LED headlights, a rear LED light and an automatic speed assist which helps to reduce speed when cornering, providing great peace of mind.

It weighs 22kg with the battery removed, making it ideal to transport in cars, planes or public transport.

The wide front wheelbase provides enhanced stability and handling.

Armrests feature extra-wide arm pads for added comfort, and there is a padded seat with a flipdown backrest and a protective front impact bar.

The slimline scooter boasts an easy-to-understand display, variable speed functions and a height-adjustable tiller.

Its fresh modern design includes black and silver wheel hubs and it is available in metallic red, purple or copper.

Classic Canes gets in the Coronation spirit

Walking stick specialist Classic Canes has launched an exclusive new ‘Crowning Glory’ design to celebrate the forthcoming coronation of HRH King Charles III.

Managing director and designer Charlotte Gillan has created a cheerful and striking pattern featuring the St Edward’s Crown, which will be used to crown the new king, interspersed with red, white and blue hearts and flowers.

The adjustable cane, which is suitable for ladies and gentlemen, will make an ideal accessory for watching the parades and attending street parties.

The cane will also be perfect for other national occasions such as The Last Night of the Proms, The Eurovision Song Contest and sporting events.

“It will look fabulous in window displays and we are expecting it to be very popular,” says Charlotte.

6 / www.thiis.co.uk NEWS, DEALS & PEOPLE

Mobility Scooters

Retailer’s Choice: Vantage Lithium Scooter by One Rehab

“The Vantage Lithium scooter is our top pick for this month’s scooter review. This scooter sits nicely in the ‘sturdy but lightweight’ niche in the market and ticks many boxes for a variety of people. This 4mph pavement scooter can be dismantled and features 34Ah lithium-Ion batteries, giving this scooter an impressive range of up to 25 miles to a single charge.

“The lithium batteries are super lightweight, only weighing 6kg. The batteries can also be charged off-board, alongside the standard charge point on the tiller of the scooter. It also bolsters a generous maximum carry capacity of 26 stone, making this scooter one of the lightest, yet sturdiest of its kind. Larger pneumatic tyres make this scooter perfect for people who want to traverse slightly rougher terrain, such as forest paths and short grass.

“This scooter is perfect for the avid adventurer who may be limited on storage space. Coming in at only 21.5 inches wide and 47 inches long, the Vantage Lithium packs all these great features into a surprisingly compact package! This scooter is also available on the Motability Scheme for customers who are eligible.”

www.city-mobility.co.uk

Wondering which mobility scooters are grabbing mobility companies’ attention? Each month, retailers in the mobility industry highlight one product that is standing out for them and why…

Retailer’s Choice: Sapphire 2 Scooter by Sunrise Medical

“Here at TPG we stock and sell a full range of mobility scooters, from the smallest of portable boot scooters to the largest of Class III 8mph luxury vehicles.

“Our preferred choice is a mid-range old favourite that has been a customer top seller for some time – the Sapphire 2 Scooter. It is large enough to carry a full-size adult in comfort but small enough to be transported if required.

“Often customers will tell you that the transportability is the most important feature for them. It is often chosen over the performance requirements, but a proper assessment of needs will more than likely show that for their physical size and their preferred area of use, a larger scooter with dependable performance and slightly larger wheels is more appropriate.

“The Sapphire is a great compromise which delivers performance, size and transportability in a well proven package. It may not be outstanding in any particular niche area, but it covers all requirements well enough to put it at the top of our choices.”

www.tpg-disableaids.co.uk

8 / www.thiis.co.uk
RETAILERS’ CHOICE

mini crosser Χ Series

Cabin Crosser

The Cabin Crosser

The Mini Crosser is available with a Cabin on any made to order scooter. The Cabin comes with an optional heater, so even in wintertime, you can enjoy driving outside.

As standard, the Cabin is equipped with an electric wiper and washer as well as low noise level insultion.

You can open the windows of the lockable doors.

The Cabin can also be equipped with a back camera (accessory) for a better view when driving backwards.

In summertime, the doors can be taken off and stored so you’re left with the large front and back windows with scratchproof safety glass.

Door handle Auxiliary heater
open door Visit your local dealer for more information or contact your local rep
Easy to

Retailer’s Choice: QFold Scooter from One Rehab

“We often have customers enquiring about a folding scooter to lift in and out of their boot. Most scooters we stocked previously weighed around 27kg and customers were finding them too difficult to lift.

“Since introducing the QFold 4mph Scooter, this has been the talk of our showrooms with both customers and staff. Our customers love this folding lightweight mobility scooter which weighs just under 19kg.

“The QFold scooter is a revolutionary, lightweight, strong and stable folding scooter that can be folded in seconds for ease of transportation and storage. The chassis is manufactured in ultra-

lightweight aircraft-grade aluminium for optimum durability and strength. The scooter can be charged in two different locations – on the tiller or on the lithium battery itself.

“A great feature of this folding scooter is that the tiller can be adjusted forward or back to suit the perfect position for the user. Not available on many folding scooters.

“It has a comfortable seat and removable arms making it an enjoyable and comfortable driving experience for the end user.

“It has solid puncture-proof tyres, giving the user peace of mind when out and about and has a maximum user weight of 18 stone. We just know this scooter is going to fly out the door over the summer period.”

www.thistlehelp.co.uk

Retailer’s Choice: Jazzy ZT10 Scooter from Pride Mobility

“At Ableworld, we’re continually updating our range of mobility scooters to make sure we are offering the ideal scooter to match the user’s requirements.

“The Jazzy ZT10 road scooter is one of our best-selling scooters. This model has been designed with remarkable features and a brilliant mechanical build to make it one of the very best scooters currently on the market. The Jazzy ZT10 is available in two colours so that you can choose from a range of options to fit your personality or lifestyle.

“The contemporary styling and cutting-edge technology of the Jazzy ZT10 is what attracts customers to it when they first walk into our stores, with it featuring an LED delta tiller display with a USB charging point, 10.5-inch alloy style wheels and LCD front and rear lighting which increases visibility. This well-designed scooter comes equipped with a range of advanced features that make it

extremely easy-to-use and increases your enjoyment.

“The ’zero turn’ feature comes from its independent rotating tyres that allows users to move seamlessly both indoors to outdoors, with a turning radius of only 43 inches, allowing for use in even the tightest of spaces. The front and rear suspension makes for a comfortable ride, alongside its powerful dual motor and twowheel drive with revolutionary iTurn technology to take users to out-ofreach places.

“It boasts a maximum range of up to 24 miles, enabling users to enjoy this superb scooter during longer days out. The three different speed settings, an adjustable deluxe

stadium seat, front-mounted basket, and cupholder/storage department are just a few of its further features.

“The Jazzy ZT10 is a mobility scooter that really does have it all. Its futuristic design alongside the smooth ride and super tight turning radius is what makes this a stand out performer in the ever growing Mobility Scooter market, and we are delighted to be able to offer it to our customers at Ableworld.”

www.ableworld.co.uk

10 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ CHOICE
Laura Hays Director of Thistle Help

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Retailer’s Choice: The Alumina Range by Motion Healthcare

“The Alumina Range is not just a company favourite but a customer favourite. We have found that the thought of lifting a scooter into a boot can be a stressful, dreadful task for some of our customers.

“Motion Healthcare have created a perfect lightweight scooter to make getting that scooter packed away a breeze! Without making any compromises on comfort these scooters have been made to be as light as possible, with a lightweight aluminium frame and lithium battery.

“The Alumina Range was designed to be dismantled easily too. The seat, basket and rear motor section are removable leaving the heaviest part, weighing just under 10kg. Its safe to say the Alumina is one of the most easily transportable dismantling mobility scooters on the market.

“You can now go the distance with a range better than the average boot scooter. With a new high-capacity lithium battery pack the Alumina Pro is made to last. With this 30-mile-range boot scooter a customer can spend a full day out without the need for turning back to charge up.

“The Alumina is equipped with puncture-proof wheels, easilyadjustable armrests, all around suspension, a 360-degree swivel seat, excellent legroom and on top of all of that, an airline-safe lithium battery.

“There isn’t much to not love about the Alumina Range. It’s an all-round favourite in all of our stores. They really are the go-to boot scooters.”

www.lifestyleandmobility.co.uk

Retailer’s Choice: Instore 8mph Scooter by Drive Devilbiss Healthcare

“The Instore 8mph Scooter from Drive Devilbiss is a compact modern 8mph scooter which offers you the opportunity to brand the scooter. With no manufacturer stickers on the scooter, you can brand it and market it with your own unique name.

“The benefits to this are you can sell the product at a reasonable price, and not have a customer spend an hour with you learning all about the pros and cons, and then buying from a box shifter. When they search for the brand name Google will take them direct to your website.

“This 8mph is a basic model, but has all the features you would need in a road scooter. Lights, mirrors, indicators, emergency break, delta handles, and front suspension.

“With a generous 136kg carrying weight and 36Ah batteries giving a range of 20 miles, there is no reason not to stock this product alongside your other 8pmh scooters.

“The tiller head displays the battery gauge, speed dial, hazard switch, light switch and horn. The fast-slow is on a switch on the tiller head making it easy to change the speed. The buttons are all waterproofed with individual button covers. Other standard features include adjustable armrests, tiller adjustment, rotating captain seat and a ground clearance of 10cm.”

www.peoplefirstmobility.co.uk

12 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ CHOICE
Darren Macey
Now live on Tailored foot mat Flip down armrests Impact bar Remote control operation Comfortable wide armrests Twin LED headlights & Rear LED light

Are you ready for the new stairlift regulations?

Over the last 100 years, the stairlift industry has changed drastically regarding technology and safety. Due to these advancements, the global market is predicted to hit over £1 billion by 2027.

The latest development in this everchanging market will occur in April when new stairlift safety regulations, EN 81-40:2020, will come into force for the European stairlift industry, replacing EN 81-40:2008. Any stock held by dealers that meets the previous regulations must be installed by 15th April 2023.

Andrew Warbrick, Managing Director of Access BDD, a UK supplier of stairlifts, platform lifts, and home lifts, believes that these

new regulations that help to improve safety are a positive step for all concerned. He commented: “To comply with the new regulations, every new stairlift must meet the following criteria: Interlocking arms, a seatbelt detection system, a separate emergency stop button, and an optional two-way voice communication device.

“The implementation of these new regulations has resulted in manufacturers potentially bringing forward planned new product launches to ensure they meet the criteria. Here at Access BDD, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of the stairlift industry and have ensured all our products fully comply with the

As new stairlift safety regulations come into force for the European stairlift industry this month, THIIS asks Andrew Warbrick (left), Managing Director of Access BDD, and Gary Tidman (right), Director of Only Lifts, to share their thoughts on how their firms are preparing to meet the new criteria…

new regulations and have trained our staff, so they are fully educated on all elements of the new regulations and what they mean for end users and our business partners.”

REASSURING THE END USER

For end-users, there may be some cost implications, comments Andrew, but these can be balanced by a greater level of reassurance on the safety of stairlifts. He continues: “I think the extra features of the stairlifts will require a little more explanation from our partners when they are talking to customers and handing over the product to the end user, but I don’t see this as an obstacle.

“For some, there has been some

14 / www.thiis.co.uk GUEST ARTICLE
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confusion on how to interpret the regulations correctly, but I am confident this will become clear in time.

“The regulations are designed with the users’ safety and well-being in mind, so the impact has got to be positive for all concerned. When speaking to our business partners, some have expressed confusion on how to interpret the regulations and in turn concern about the responsibility this puts on them. However, I think that, in general, most of the feedback we have received has been very positive, and I certainly think everyone agrees that anything designed to improve the safety of the user is a good thing.

“These new regulations are all based on improving safety and security, and the recently launched HomeGlide design has pivoted nicely into this new reality. Although some end users struggle with safety belts, the new HomeGlide has managed to stabilise the seatbelt socket within the chair’s framework, making it easier to negotiate. The call system has also been a triumph of design nicely integrating into the chair armrest allowing easy access to outside help.

“Rather than resting on its laurels, Access BDD has always been ahead of the competition in design and functionality and the integration of new features has always felt designed, rather than an afterthought. The

Access BDD product range feels like the standard to which other manufacturers aspire.”

INSTILLING CONFIDENCE

The benefit of compelling endusers to wear their safety belts is a sensible move, according to Gary Tidman, Director of Only Lifts, one of Access BDD’s UK business partners. This is especially the case where forgetfulness can at times be an issue.

Gary explains: “An integrated communication device built into the stairlift will take safety and security to another level, especially for those that don’t have a telecare system in place. Ultimately these design changes should help re-assure the end-user,

and those that worry about them, such as relatives or friends, who can’t always be there. These technologies have the power to make one of the safest types of lift design, even safer and instil a sense of confidence when moving from one level to another.”

Andrew concludes: “Looking to the future, here at Access BDD we have often thought about the need for some kind of qualification or method of assessment for people who are selling stairlifts, to ensure they correctly assess the end user and situation, so the best solution is provided with the safety and comfort of the end user in mind. Whether the best place for this is in EN 81-40 is open to debate, but I think it’s an area that deserves more attention.”

For more information on the full range of stairlifts, home lifts and platform lifts available at Access BDD dealer visit

www.accessbdd.com or

email info@accessbdd.com

16 / www.thiis.co.uk
A stairlift fitted with a handle alarm New design changes could potentially help re-assure the end-user
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Mountfield Services: Access all areas

Based in Basildon, Essex, Mountfield Services was founded in 1996 by Mick Anderson, Managing Director. It covers most of the south of England, including Essex, Kent, Surrey, Hertfordshire and London.

The business specialises in all kinds of accessible mobility equipment such as stairlifts, homelifts, bathroom adaptations, lifts, ceiling track hoists, ramps and grab rails and powered door and window openers.

The business established after the company Mick was working for

ceased trading, so he decided to work for himself. Very much a family business; at one point all four of Mick’s children were working for the business. These days, Mick’s oldest child, Lee, is the manager at the firm.

Lee has been working at the company since he left school 23 years ago. Managing the moving and handing side of the company Lee is very keen on growing the company further. He appreciates more than anyone the hard work that has gone into making the business a success.

Now in its 27th year, Mountfield Services has been thriving as a stairlifts specialist in the south of England, where it is one of Handicare’s biggest dealers. Lee Anderson, Manager of Mountfield Services, takes THIIS behind the scenes...

Asked about what he thinks has been key to its longevity over 27 years, he replies: “Hard work and a good workforce, which has built up our excellent reputation and a willingness to go the extra mile.”

Lee explains that he has long been motivated to work in the mobility industry. He adds: “Working in an industry where you can make a real difference and change in someone’s life by installing a bit of equipment which gives them their independence back is very rewarding.”

18 / www.thiis.co.uk
RETAILER
SPOTLIGHT
The retailer's branding on show at the West Ham United stadium

Other key people working at Mountfield Services, apart from Mick and Lee, include Dawn Webster, its office manager, who has been working at the firm for 23 years and has been “a massive part of our success”, according to Lee.

Others include senior engineer David Fowke, engineers Jim Paterson and Luke Turner, as well as Holly Anderson and Natalie Hall, who work in administration.

STAIRLIFT SPECIALIST

Mountfield Services has built a solid reputation as a stairlift specialist. Lee explains: “We carry out a full and in-depth site survey for all our customers, using our years of expertise/experience so we can inform them of the best solution to fit their needs.”

Mountfield Services is a Diamond Tier dealer in the Handicare Partner Programme and is currently working its way up to becoming the stairlift supplier’s biggest dealer in the south.

Lee comments: “We’ve found the Handicare range very popular. One of the main reasons for using Handicare as our main stairlift manufacture is

because of the wide range of products and features, such as the Slide Track and Active Seat.”

The Slide Track automatically slides the stairlift track clear of any obstacles while it moves up or down the track, while the Active Seat is a lever that the user can lift up to activate the seat.

Lee says that the firm has had a long working relationship with Handicare since opening an account with it 27 years ago. He says: “We feel like we have grown with Handicare over the years and are very proud to be one of their biggest dealers. We have our sights set on becoming a Diamond partner of the year in the next couple of years.

In fact, Lee says that the Handicare 1100 and 2000 stairlifts are its biggestselling products.

THE SHOWROOM

Anyone interesting in buying an accessible mobility solution is encouraged to visit Mountfield Services’ dedicated demonstration showroom in Basildon and test out the huge range of products that it has offer.

The retailer works with brands such as BHM Medical, Impey, Wessex, Contour, AKW, N&C and Handicare. Mountfield Services showroom showcases a selection of all the products that it offers.

Its website is also a good place for its customers to learn about our company, says Lee, as it showcases all the products and services it offers. He adds: “We’re very aware that the internet/social media is the best place to get our name out there these days.”

Since the start of the year, the retailer has hosted several Trusted Assessor training days for occupational therapists at its showroom. The feedback, says Lee, has been very positive, with Thurrock Council pleased with the setting, as it allowed participants to immerse themselves in measuring and fitting the equipment.

The OT training days were set up to offer local OT’s the opportunity to be trained or refreshed on equipment they will come across in the community, Lee explains. It’s also a handy way of getting the company name out there.

Lee comments: “We’ve been running these courses for years, although due to Covid the recent courses were the first ones for a few years. The courses cover the installation and placement of equipment, such as grab rails. We find they are also good with keeping our

20 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILER SPOTLIGHT
The Basildon showroom Lee with the Handicare 1100 stairlift (also pictured above left) Branding on show at a West Ham home game

NOW!

The Handicare 4000

Increased weight limits

136kg = standard version

Smoother ride

Improved crimp joints

Fits narrower staircases

Small footplate available

Faster installation

Pre-installed footplate & less stanchions

Perfect for the tightest of bends

YOU ASKED, WE LISTENED

Using the latest technology, the 4000 brings you the benefits of 135 years of Handicare innovation. Make everyday life easier for more customers with higher weight limits, powered options for a range of needs and offer a solution to the tightest bends on the market.

Also, with our new online training programme, getting your engineers ready to install the 4000 is easier than ever.

Speak to your BDM to learn more or call TPS on

www.handicare-stairlifts.co.uk
0844 225 3121
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OTs updated on new products coming onto the market.”

It is looking forward to introducing the new Handicare 4000 stairlift to customers this spring. Lee says: “The Handicare 4000 is going to fill a big gap in the market. We’ve been missing a reliable heavy duty curved stairlift in our portfolio and we believe the Handicare 4000 meets these needs.”

Lee says he is looking forward to expanding his product range with the latest technological advances. He adds: “We believe home controlled devices are the future. Being able to control opening your doors and windows via an Alexa would be very useful for a wheelchair or bed-bound client.”

COMMUNITY-FOCUSED

Mountfield Services become a proud London Stadium Associate Partner in the last couple of years, meaning that its company logo is shown at all West Ham FC Premier League home games.

The firm is always very interested in contributing and giving back to the local community/charities.

Says Lee: “Last year we were the main sponsor at a local school fair and we donated to a children’s Christmas party event, supplying presents. This was organised by one of the housing associations we work for.

“We carried out our yearly Christmas food parcel delivery

service for the less fortunate and vulnerable and supplied a new bench to one of the sheltered housing sites we work at and donated/helped in organising and raising £1,500 for a friend to put towards treatment for a brain tumour.”

As for the future, Lee hopes that it will continue to supply equipment for local authorities despite the challenging financial circumstances at the moment. He says: “A large amount of Mountfield Services’ work comes via local authorities, so it is worrying if the government cuts their spending. The cost of living crisis is very real and customers are not spending as much money on mobility equipment.”

He is keen on building on all the hard work his father has done for the past 27 years.

“I hope Mountfield Services will still be running for another 27 plus years so mine and my sister’s children can also have the opportunity of working for Mountfield and helping it to grow further, as we did.

“Ultimately I want Mountfield to keep up with technology. We are looking into home control systems and keeping an eye out for any other products that will benefit our customers and make life easier.”

www.mountfieldservices.co.uk

22 / www.thiis.co.uk
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RHealthcare: Cutting a dash in mobility

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT RHEALTHCARE?

“My role in the organisation is Sales and Marketing Director, which also includes product sourcing. I started off working in occupational therapy in New Zealand [where I am originally from] and this drove my interest in mobility products and gave me a great foundation for the years ahead.

“I have had a couple of years in retail with John Bell and Croydon in London before working at Remploy and then Days Healthcare, before it was taken over by Patterson Medical. I moved with the power division from Patterson Medical to Drive

Medical. In 2017 I made the move to RHealthcare. Over the 25 years I have been working in this field the market has changed so much, with the internet being a major factor in the changes.”

WHO ARE THE OTHER KEY PEOPLE AT RHEALTHCARE?

“We also have Roy Day, Business Development Manager, who covers the Midlands North. Roy has 20 years’ experience in the mobility industry covering the northern region.

“And to back it all up we have an excellent customer service team based in Hamilton.”

Based in Hamilton, Scotland, RHealthcare supplies a wide range of mobility equipment for users and prescribers alike, including the NHS. These products include lightweight powered and non-powered wheelchairs and rollators. Most recently, the firm debuted the Robooter powered wheelchair range at Naidex. THIIS chats to Brent McIvor, Sales and Marketing Director at RHealthcare.

26 / www.thiis.co.uk
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HOW DID RHEALTHCARE COME TO BE ESTABLISHED?

“RHealthcare started trading in 2011 following the purchase of the wheelchair business from Remploy, who had been supplying wheelchairs to the NHS for over 50 years. The business, when purchased, focused exclusively on the NHS but still employs some of the original Remploy staff. We see ourselves as an inclusive and supportive employer with a family-style feel to the team.

“Our management is highly experienced from multi-national company backgrounds, so we are managed in a highly professional but also personal manner. We use this experience to help us make fast and reliable decisions and to set up business processes to make us more effective.

“We operate with a streamlined structure. Our team has been selected carefully and is very friendly and experienced. We support one another to give, what we hope, is a great customer experience. We don’t always get it right, but we do try hard to get it right. We are also open to suggestions on how we can make it better from all sources.

“Over the past few years, we have now developed a range of lightweight powered and non-powered wheelchairs and rollators focused into the retail market as well as making additions to our NHS ranges.

“We branded the retail part of the business as Dash Rehab in 2020 (dashrehab.co.uk) to separate the NHS side from the retail side. We believe we have one of the most modern ranges of lightweight products available in the market today.”

WHAT IS RHEALTHCARE'S ‘HERO’ PRODUCT?

“Our Fold Down Rollator has been a huge success with the numbers of units sold to mobility retailers. Its unique folding mechanism has been a hit with the dealers and users alike and is made of aluminium with a 136kg maximum user weight.

“The product got THIIS Product of the Year in 2021. The Fold Down Rollator with a liquid paint finish and stylish design make it a valuefor-money product. The rollator also comes with a backrest, under-seat bag and a walking stick holder.”

28 / www.thiis.co.uk SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
“We believe we have one of the most modern ranges of lightweight products available in the market today”
Brent McIvor beside the Robooter stand at this year's Naidex event The lightweight Dash Express wheelchair

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CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR LATEST PRODUCT TO HIT THE MARKET?

“The Robooter powerchair range is new and fresh to the market. We have tied up an exclusive agreement with Robooter and have big plans for this range to move it forward over the coming years.

“The X40 electric-fold model is a crossover between a mobility scooter and a powered wheelchair and offers a maximum user weight of 120kg. Released earlier this year, it has been a hit with dealers. It features an OMNI wheel and an intelligent controller and comes in various colour options, with state-of-the-art manufacturing that makes it suitable for all types of terrain.

“The E40 manual-fold model is more of a conventional powered wheelchair and accommodates a user weight of up to 150kg.

“Naidex 2023 was successful for us with many orders placed on the Robooter products and an incredibly busy stand. The comedian Lee Ridley (aka Lost Voice Guy), of Britain's Got Talent fame, was among those who popped by for a demo and placed an order on the X40 model.”

WHAT OTHER PRODUCTS ARE PLANNED FOR RELEASE?

“This year we have a number of new products to hit the market, from rollators and lightweight manual wheelchairs to new-to-the-market powerpacks and more lightweight powerchairs.

“We will be increasing our range by at least 30 per cent. We see our company as the new boys on the block in retail, but have made enormous growth over the past three years.”

HOW HAS RHEALTHCARE DEALT WITH THE CHALLENGES OF GLOBAL SHIPPING DELAYS?

“The shipping delays have put a lot of pressure on uninterrupted supply for all businesses in the industry.

“We actually came through that period quite well but did have some challenges on one of our product lines for around five months due to the temporary closure of a production facility temporary closure caused by staff shortage from COVID!

“We have always had a genuine partnership approach with our suppliers which meant that we continued to order during the

pandemic despite a lack of sales at our end. This meant our suppliers could keep working and staff employed but it also meant that we had quite high stocks of most of our products.

“So, when there was a surge of ordering towards the end of the pandemic and long delays in supply, we had a lot of stock! The delays didn’t hurt us as much as we heard from others in the market.”

IS RHEALTHCARE LOOKING AT EXPANDING INTO OTHER PRODUCT CATEGORIES?

“At the moment we are taking a good look at the mobility scooter and rise and recline market. The products will be new to market, as we try to innovate in the market, not copy. I believe this is where our success has come from.”

HOW DOES RHEALTHCARE SUPPORT ITS RETAILER NETWORK?

“To be a partner with Dash Rehab you need to take a small group of products and in return you will be the first to see and buy new products. Pricing support and a website listing

30 / www.thiis.co.uk SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
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are some other examples. We have product flyers on all our products for handouts in the stores.

“Most of our products are unbranded, which the retail market likes. Moving forward we will look to go to the next level with product videos and more innovative ways to get the end users to buy our products. Watch this space!

“We welcome new retail partners, particularly in Cornwall, the South East England and Midlands. Anyone interested in being a partner can email sales@rhealthcare.co.uk or phone 0845 1460600.”

DOES RHEALTHCARE HAVE PLANS TO EXPAND OUTSIDE THE UK?

“We have some business outside of the UK already. We are always open to ideas and thoughts about growing our business but at this time we want to continue doing what we think we are good at, which is introducing the right products to our UK customers.

“Once we build our Dash Rehab brand we may look at moving it into EU countries. I would love to see the Dash Rehab brand in New Zealand as this is where my journey started.”

NEW PRODUCTS ASIDE, WHAT’S NEXT FOR RHEALTHCARE THIS YEAR?

“We are looking to add some more customer support to our team in Scotland as we grow our business. We are very careful about whom we select and would rather not recruit than recruit someone who doesn’t fit the team.

“We are currently updating our website to make it more user friendly. I will be at CMEF in Shanghai in May. Rehacare in September and Arab Health in Dubai. We will also support Robooter on the stand in Rehacare, as this is Europe's go-to show now.”

www.rhealthcare.co.uk

32 / www.thiis.co.uk SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
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Embracing digital technology can deliver a potentially transformative impact on health, housing and social care services.

“In particular, digital technologies can help to drive better services, and ensure smoother interactions between mobility suppliers and collaboration with their partners. Collaboration and communication are essential to support the effective provision of proactive and predictive services. It can also ensure that decisions are made that are in the best interests of service users.

“A collaborative approach requires professionals to come together to share their knowledge and ideas on how best to care for the people who need it most. It’s also important that collaboration includes communication with service users, to identify where improvements are required and support the codesigning of services.

“However, there can be numerous barriers to effective collaboration and it’s important that mobility suppliers are aware of these and do what they can to mitigate them. These barriers include geographical areas covered by different stakeholders, statutory responsibilities, contrasting priorities and cultures, and siloed approaches.

“Technology is helping us to rethink the way we live our lives, yet it is often an afterthought when planning service delivery. Technology continues to play a key role in establishing a modern care platform, and this is even more the case as we move towards the digital transition.

With the widespread adoption of mobile devices and the shift to more digital access of products and services as a result of the pandemic, NRS Healthcare has taken a number of strategic measures aimed at embracing digital technology.

“As well as offering a range of products to customers, our digital channels, completecareshop.co.uk and healthcarepro.co.uk are a “goto” source of help and guidance, all written in collaboration with our inhouse occupational therapists (OTs).

“Our OTs also give free product advice online, however, we also know that many of our customers prefer to speak with our team on the phone, so both options are available.

“Another milestone in our digital offering was the launch of completecareshop.co.uk ‘Home Living Consultations’; a bespoke virtual assessment and advice service to older people or those living with illness or disability and conducted with a HCPC-registered OT via video call over WhatsApp, Zoom or Microsoft Teams. This service provides a personalised, proactive and rapid solution to those experiencing difficulties and can be used to help influence a wider care plan.

This month, we ask mobility leaders to share their thoughts about how they are utilising online platforms and embracing a digital future…

“If mobility suppliers understand its benefits, it will support collaborative working and deliver incredible opportunities to improve the outcomes of people using mobility services.

www.tunstall.co.uk

“We believe that as technology continues to evolve and become even more accessible, it will increasingly shape the way we interact with each other, source information and buy products and services. As a trusted partner for both healthcare professionals who recommend our products and our end consumers, we will continue to look for new ways to embrace the latest technology into our business where we believe it is appropriate and beneficial to our customers.

www.nrshealthcare.com

34 / www.thiis.co.uk
Can mobility suppliers do more to embrace digital technology to communicate with its partners?

With the advent of the pandemic we certainly noticed a rise in digital communication, and were forced to embrace digital change as our vulnerable customers isolated and began entering a more digital space.

“We built a new interactive website in response to a rise in traffic, questions and support on products through our @rmsrehab social media channels remain higher than ever, whilst video calls allowed our product specialists to do assessments with end users in a virtual digital environment.

“Previously, meetings with international partners had us flying all over the globe, whilst now virtual meetings allow us to conclude business at the touch of a button, at great savings to the company.

“In the UK we have run training seminars, conferences and business meeting all virtually, meaning we can maximise the time and effectiveness of our staff.

“Yet despite embracing this digital future, our team will always have to maintain an element of the ‘hands on’ approach.

“Many of our specialised rehabilitation products require us to be in a room with a user to adjust and build the equipment around their body shape and requirements.

“No matter how good technology may get it will never be able to replicate that kind of personal service.

Our partners are integral to our business, and we are always looking for new ways to support them.

“We recently launched LINC –a cloud-based order processing platform which is designed to provide our partners with complete visibility of their order book from point of order, through to dispatch. This enables them to have real-time information on the status of their customer's order. Therefore, partners benefit from a transparent flow of communication from the factory to their customers. With LINC being a cloud-based platform, partners can place an order from anywhere and on any device.

“Each partner has their own secure account where they can quickly and easily enter the configuration of their customer’s lift. LINC guides partners through the configuration process, eliminating potential errors through predefined intelligent conditional logic.

“In addition, partners can see exactly what stage each order is at, be notified when drawings are ready for approval and when their lift goes into production. All correspondence is kept in one central location relevant to each specific order and when there is an update, the partner is instantly informed via an automatic email notification.

“We have also established a dedicated LINC team who monitor all orders to ensure a smooth rollout process. To further support our partners, we are in the process of developing ‘Partner Portal’ which will be launched later this year.

“The new portal will provide secure direct access to all relevant documents such as parts information and marketing material.

Since the pandemic, there’s no doubt we’ve seen a huge shift in society towards digital services. Our sector has been slower to embrace this change, but Handicare is accelerating our digital strategy to make life easier for our Partners and, ultimately, for their customers.

“The latest project in our digital journey is the Handicare Online Academy, providing in-depth product training for the new Handicare 4000.

“During Covid, Partners could access live training online, and now with the new e-learning platform engineers can access on-demand presentations and videos, and complete training in half a day with no travel costs or additional time out of the business.

“We know finances are tight for everyone, and digital resources provide a cost-effective solution to help our Partners’ businesses keep thriving.

“We know these online resources are popular. Our digital troubleshooter TechTool has over 1,300 users, giving them 24/7 access to technical fixes for all our lifts.

“We’ve recently expanded TechTool to include technical news and updates, so that engineers can find all the latest technical information on our products in one place at the touch of a button.

www.rms-rehab.co.uk

www.accessbdd.com

www.handicare-stairlifts.co.uk

www.thiis.co.uk / 35
Mila Newbold Communications Manager at RMS Bethany Ward Marketing Co-Ordinator, Access BDD Paul Stockdill Sales Director (UK) of Handicare

Measurements in seating 2. Relative angles in a seating system

A standard was published in 2006 (ISO 16840-1)1 which (for the first time) introduced a standardised means of measuring a seated person and their seating system in a wheelchair. This is important so that one assessor’s measures are similar to the next assessor’s. Inevitably the language of standards is not always an easy read, and so Kelly Waugh and Barbara Crane produced a Clinical Application Guide (CAG) which is available for free download2 – giving greater in-depth coverage of the material summarised here.

In the previous article we looked at the relative angles of the seated person, while in this article we concentrate on the relative angles of their seating system.

FIRST PRINCIPLES

Relative support surface angles are usually taken from the side view, the ‘sagittal’ view. Relative angles of support surfaces in the frontal and transverse planes are rarely used in practice.

All relative angles are measured from the occupant side of one support surface to the occupant side of the adjacent support surface, with the surfaces unloaded.

Any angle can be measured on two sides (one side less than 180 degrees and the other greater than 180 degrees). The side of the angle which is used is based on clinical intuitiveness, with a preference for using the angle which gives a smaller value when the surfaces are oriented in a ‘neutral’ seating position.

The three primary support surface relative angles - seat to back support angle, seat to lower leg support angle, and lower leg support to foot support angle - are the most commonly specified support surface angles in practice, because deviations in these angles will have the most profound effect on seated posture.

LOCATING THE RELEVANT SUPPORT SURFACES

Relative support surface angles are defined as the angle between two

Last month we looked at what we need to do to measure the angles between different parts of the body with respect to the needs of a seated person. This month we review how these angles ultimately relate to a person’s seating system. There are important aspects that ensure that the seating system prescription meets the seated person’s needs. The key take-home message is that the body’s relative angles frequently do not equate to those of the seating system, or vice versa.

adjacent support surfaces, and so you need to be able to locate the relevant parts of the two adjacent support surfaces in order to align your goniometer arms. If the contact surface side of the body support device is flat, you can lay the arms of the goniometer or angle finder directly on the contact surface itself, or parallel to the flat contact surface side of the support. For contoured seat or back support surfaces, this is more difficult. There are two ways to identify the relevant part of the support surface when the surface is contoured:

1. Use the solid, flat structure on the non-contact surface side of the support: The support surface lines of a contoured seat or back support cushion can be approximated using the flat pan or shell on the noncontact surface side of the seat or back support device.

2. Use a clipboard or other flat surface placed onto the contoured contact surface.

36 / www.thiis.co.uk
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EXAMPLE

SEAT TO BACK SUPPORT ANGLE

The most common relative angle of the seated person is the thigh to trunk angle, and this angle of the seating system relates to this body angle, but frequently is not the same value, and ideally is measured with the occupant in place in the seating system at the required thigh to trunk angle, and then the angle of the seating system to achieve this can be measured.

The clinical relevance is that the angle between the seat and back support can have a significant influence on the individual’s comfort, posture, health, and function, and therefore it can be clinically useful to document the existing and/or desired seat to back support angle.

SAMPLE PROCEDURE

(USING A GONIOMETER):

1. Locate the seat and back support surfaces

a) If the seat and/or back support surface is flat, align the arms of the goniometer along or parallel with the flat contact surface side of the seat and of the back support cushion.

b) If the seat and/or back support surface is contoured, their surfaces can be approximated using the flat pan or shell on the non-contact surface side of the seat or back cushions. In this situation, align the arms of the goniometer along or parallel to the flat solid backings behind the back support cushion and under the seat cushion to approximate the seat to back support angle. Alternatively, place a clipboard or other firm flat surface on top of the contact surface to approximate the surface.

2. Measure the angle

SEAT TO BACK SUPPORT ANGLE

Type of Measurement: Relative support surface angle

Description: The angle between the seat cushion and the back support viewed from the side.

Surfaces used:

• Back support surface

• Seat cushion surface

Angle measured: The anterior side of the angle formed between the back support surface and the seat cushion surface, as viewed from the side. Typical

CONSIDERATIONS

• This measure is used when there is a single continuous back support surface. If the back support is sectioned, as in a bi-angular back support, you may wish to measure both the seat to lower back support and the seat to upper back support angles.

• The seat to back support angle is very critical as it can influence the user’s posture and function in many ways. This relative angle is typically chosen to support the person’s body at the desired thigh to trunk angle, which is unique to that individual. The desired thigh to trunk angle is typically based on the user’s hip joint flexibility, level of postural control of the trunk, presence of muscle spasticity, and functional needs with respect to orientation of the trunk, head and upper extremities.

• If the seated person’s trunk is parallel with the back support surface, and their thigh is parallel to the seat cushion surface, then the seat to back support angle will likely be the same as the person’s thigh to trunk angle.

a) Align the stationary arm of the goniometer along or parallel to the back support surface.

b) Align the moveable arm of the goniometer along or parallel to the seat cushion surface.

c) Read the internal, anterior side of the angle.

Dr ter Haar has been involved in seating and mobility for over 30 years, including lecturing internationally, and developing international seating standards.

www.thiis.co.uk / 37
Values: 80 -120ᵒ
Get it Clear’ by Dr
Haar
Figure 1. Seat to back support angle (Fig 3.2 in the CAG2)
‘Let’s
Barend ter
Further items can be found at www.beshealthcare.net
Call to find out more 01787 888 106 or email trade.sales@tgamobility.co.uk www.tgamobility.co.uk QUOTE: THS20 Attaches in seconds

LOWER LEG MEASURES

The lower leg support surface can be difficult to identify because frequently there is not an actual lower leg support device, such as a ‘calf pad’, on the wheelchair. However, this ‘surface’ is necessary for measuring the seat to lower leg support angle and the lower leg support to foot support angle.

There are two ways to identify the lower leg support ‘surface’, based on whether there is a posterior lower leg support device on the system being measured, and these are summarised in Figure 2. The lower leg support ‘surface’ can be an imaginary line intersecting the rear edge of the foot supports or heel loops and the most forward projection of the seat.

Where there is a lower leg support device, such as a calf pad, on the wheelchair, the lower leg support surface is defined by the contact surface of the posterior lower leg support at its geometric centre. Note that this lower leg support line may project forward of the end of the seat cushion, and the bottom may not project to the back of the foot support; however the posterior lower leg support line will be defined by the orientation of this pad. This makes sense clinically, because the location and orientation of a calf pad will affect the person’s lower leg alignment.

SEAT TO LOWER LEG SUPPORT ANGLE

This angle is generally prescribed to match the desired thigh to lower leg

angle of the person, which is based on the user’s hamstring flexibility, knee joint range of motion, comfort, and stability needs, as well as other functional considerations such as manoeuvrability of the mobility base. The most common way to alter the seat to lower leg support angle is to change the anterior-posterior position of the foot support relative to the front edge of the seat.

This angle generates a significant amount of confusion among clinicians and suppliers, yet it is a critical dimension to specify and therefore it is important to communicate information about this dimension accurately.

The seat to lower leg support angle is a support surface angle, not a body segment angle. Specification of this angle is used to achieve a certain thigh to lower leg angle, however they are often not exactly the same value. This is because the centre of the user’s knee is forward of the end of the seat, and therefore the centre point, or vertex, of the body segment angle and the support surface angle do not line up.

For example, if a user’s knee is several inches forward of the end of the seat (in a system with no posterior lower leg support), the user’s thigh to lower leg angle will be significantly less than the seat to lower leg support angle (Fig. 3). Additionally, if the back of the user’s foot is not positioned at the back of the footplate, there will be a greater discrepancy between these two angles.

LOWER LEG SUPPORT ASSEMBLY ANGLE IS SOMETHING ELSE

The lower leg support assembly angle is a wheelchair frame angle, and not a seating support surface angle, and it is defined and measured very differently. The 60-70-90 degree angle of the lower leg support assembly of the wheelchair frame, used by manufacturers, refers to the angle formed between the forward projection of the seat rail and the leg support hanger tube.

Not only is the value determined differently, but it also represents the orientation of frame components and not necessarily the orientation of seating support surface components mounted onto the wheelchair frame. The wheelchair’s lower leg support assembly angle is typically fixed, and does not change with varied placements of the seat or foot supports. Conversely, changes in the position and/or angle of the seat cushion or foot support will change the seat to lower leg support angle.

REFERENCES

1. ISO 16840-1:2006 Wheelchair Seating, Part 1 - Vocabulary, reference axis convention and measures for body posture and postural support surfaces

2. Waugh, K and Crane, B (2013) A clinical application guide to standardized wheelchair seating measures of the body and seating support surfaces. Accessible as BPG3 from https://www.pmguk.co.uk/ resources/best-practice-guidelines/bpgarchive

38 / www.thiis.co.uk
Figure 2. Lower leg support surface (Reference Plane) without calf pad, and lower leg support surface (Reference Plane) with calf pad (Fig 3.1 from the CAG2)
LET’S GET IT CLEAR
Figure 3. Seat to lower leg support angle vs. thigh to lower leg angle (Fig 3.7 from CAG2)

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Buyers’ guide to mobility scooters UltraFold auto folding scooter by Drive

DeVilbiss Healthcare

The lightest four-wheel folding scooter to come from Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare, the UltraFold includes several new features.

Automatic speed assist helps reduce speed when cornering while a remote control operation auto folds the scooter to an ultra compact size within seconds. It has a small turning circle of 111cm and the wide front wheelbase offers enhanced stability. Other features include twin LED headlights, solid PU tyres, wide flip-down armrests, rear LED light, height-adjustable tiller and a front impact bar.

The scooter has a maximum speed of 4mph and a maximum range of 7.5 miles. It is ultra lightweight at only 22kg without battery. Its lightweight lithium ion airline-friendly battery is removable. The scooter has a weight capacity of 115kg.

Each month, discover key products from a different segment of the mobility market to consider offering to customers

Mayan AC scooter by Horizon Mobility

The Mayan AC is an all-terrain off-road mobility scooter designed and built in the UK. Its powerful three-phase AC motor makes it unique and offers the end-user impressive performance at their fingertips, enabling them to tackle more challenging hills and terrains.

The new series 3 Mayan AC comes with a range of options including power steering, an ideal feature for those with limited dexterity and strength in their arms. Plus, with a maximum user weight of up to 412kg it is also suitable for heavier users.

horizonmobility.com

40 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE
drivedevilbiss.co.uk
www.thiis.co.uk / 41 * The Iconic Tilt-in-Space Quad Motor Premium Riser Recliner * The Reef Pro Sustainable, luxury Fabric on Ambassador & Jubilee * The Rascal VelumiLi & Veo Sport LiFe 4mph scooters with Lithium Ferro-Phosphate Battery & 2 year Warranty Successfully launched at Newly Launched Products Stock available NOW for your showrooms this Spring! Call 01460 258120 today to order.... Professional trade support is our Number 1 priority UK Exclusive Distributor Innovative &DesignsUnique

Lite folding travel scooter from eFOLDi

One of the lightest, ultra-compact folding travel scooters on the market, this travel scooter weighs 15kg, excluding batteries. The latest and most advanced scooter from eFOLDi, the Lite folds and unfolds in a few seconds. It fits easily into most car boots and is simple to store and transport.

The Lite’s revolutionary design features a highspecification, airline-friendly lithium battery and a lightweight magnesium-alloy chassis, so it is not only exceptionally portable, it is also remarkably durable. Its lightweight components and energy-efficient lithium battery technology means the Lite scooter costs less than one pence per mile to use.

www.efoldi.com

The Leo scooter by Invacare

With over 50,000 sold, The Leo offers reliability, safety, and secure driving ability. Offering many of the essential features that customers ask for, the Leo is a highly popular model in the compact mini scooter category, according to Invacare.

It gives a smooth, safe ride in a scooter that is easy to control and manoeuvre. An intelligent lighting package provides additional peace of mind with indicators that automatically switch off and a rear brake light for safely warning other drivers and pedestrians of manoeuvres. The Leo is equally at home around town and in shopping centres with its easy manoeuvrability assisting the end user in getting around tight corners.

www.invacare.co.uk

K-Lite FE folding scooter by Kymco Mobility

K-Lite folding scooters are designed to offer the end-user the ultimate lightweight folding scooters for easy storage, transportation and handling. These very compact and ultra-lightweight scooters incorporate the latest technologies in lightweight materials, electronics, folding mechanisms and safety.

K-Lite folding scooters are available as either K-Lite FE (electric) and K-Lite F (manual). When folded, the scooter can be stored in many handy locations, making travel more convenient and trouble free.

K-Lite folding scooters are made from special lightweight aluminium and are fitted with a 1.64 kg ultralightweight lithium battery pack, which the user can carry indoors to conveniently charge it, in their home.

www.kymco.co.uk

42 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE

Rascal VelumiLi scooter by Electric Mobility

The lightest Rascal ever at 28.8kg, there is a two-year warranty on both the scooter and the British-made lithium ferro-phosphate battery pack with a design life of over 1,000 cycles for peace of mind and increased efficiency.

Lightweight and transportable, this small but mighty 4mph scooter

Gogo E scooter by Pride Mobility

offers great value for money. Brimming with features and a choice of five vibrant colours, the slimline, aluminium, high-quality frame is just 18.6 inches wide, yet the sturdy frame and transaxle contribute to the extra travelling stability for everyday adventures.

The front section weights just

10.2kg with the T-bar tiller locking feature for easy transportation and durable metal seat post for added strength. The compact scooter offers an exceptional 1150mm turning radius and manoeuvrability.

This four-wheel scooter is brand new to the Pride Mobility range and has everything the end-user needs for a safe and convenient trip whilst still with the most modest price point within the range. It comes with two 12 Ah batteries, a maximum speed of up to 4mph and a weight capacity of 115kg.

pride-mobility.co.uk

www.thiis.co.uk / 43

Comet Pro scooter from Invacare

Featuring advanced safety features built in as standard, the Comet Pro offers peace of mind to the end-user. A combination of advanced mono shock rear suspension and independent front suspension ensures a smooth and comfortable drive over uneven terrain. The tiller can be easily lever adjusted in finite steps to achieve a comfortable driving position.

Speed and efficient steering with in-built safety managed by an ergonomic design and an auto speed reduction feature helps reduce speed on bends. All this is combined with an automatic rear brake light for warning others of slowing. Also available in the range is the Comet Ultra.

www.invacare.co.uk

Vecta

Sport scooter by Electric Mobility

The popular Vecta Sport is unrivalled with its compact chassis and sleek design, making it a must-have showroom model.

Functional and captivating, the Vecta Sport is ideal for consumers who equally value increased independence while desiring a beautifully engineered and attractive compact performance scooter.

With excellent leg room, an adjustable tiller and super comfortable seat it is a scooter designed for all users. The waterproof USB power outlet ensures that the user’s mobile phone is always charged or alternatively provides the power for a GPS unit for the adventurous.

The scooter comes with a 25-stone weight carrying capacity, run flat pneumatic tyres on split rims, the unique Max Grip limited slip differential gearbox and the new technology high-power high-torque 600 watt motor.

electricmobility.co.uk

Go Go Endurance scooter by Pride Mobility

With the Go Go Endurance Li, travelling is easy for the end-user. With the standard 8ah airline safe lithium battery pack, the Go Go Endurance is perfect for air travel. With a weight capacity of up to 147kg and speeds of up to 4.2mph it is a great scooter to recommend for anyone who loves to travel.

pride-mobility.co.uk

44 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE

good looking, great design

ERGOGRIP HANDLES for flexible grip, correct walking posture and comfortable armrest while seated (models: 5G, ATR & Pegasus)

MEMORY HEIGHT FUNCTION

Unique to TOPRO, makes setting heights simple and easy

SHOCK-ABSORBING WHEELS for maximum comfort on different surfaces

7-YEAR WARRANTY all our products come with a 7 year warranty

SUSTAINABLE Sustainable production and environmentally friendly materials

MADE IN NORWAY

Modern Nordic design and strict quality control procedures

info@topro.co.uk | 0115 846 5406 topromobility.co.uk
Meet the Pegasus – part of the TOPRO family

Dual Wheel Auto Fold Scooter by Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare

This dual-front-wheel scooter offers enhanced stability, while retaining the excellent functionality of the original scooter. It can be easily folded and unfolded by remote, or buttons on the scooter, within 20 seconds.

Coming with a padded carry bag to protect the scooter whilst in transit, it is available in three colour options. It has a top speed of 4mph and a maximum range of six miles. The scooter features 8" silver wheels on the rear and 6" front dual wheels. It offers auto speed reduction on bends and a ground clearance of 17mm. Coming withing airline-friendly batteries it offers a 115kg maximum weight capacity.

drivedevilbiss.co.uk

Breeze S4 scooter with Canopy by TGA Mobility

The Breeze S4 brings the user the ultimate in advanced comfort, performance and looks with the solid canopy option designed to help keep out the elements. All-round, active, adjustable suspension and a powerful motor ensures kerbs and rough ground are a breeze. Ample storage is provided by secure, lockable and waterproof compartments at both the front and rear.

The user will find easy-to-use controls at their fingertips with in-built safety systems creating confidence in any situation. The Solid Canopy has a strong tubular framework, which fixes directly onto the chassis with a Perspex screen and roof to keep the user covered in all weathers. Detachable clear vinyl sides make the Breeze S usable allyear-round.

Aura scooter by Motion Healthcare

The aluminium and lithium Aura has slightly larger dimensions than a traditional car boot scooter, allowing the user to own just one scooter that handles both more strenuous day-to-day use with comfort and ease, as well as being easy and light when dismantling to travel. Its heaviest part of 15.5kg makes it as light as a small steel boot scooter with the added benefits of full suspension, pneumatic tyres, a captain seat, and powerful 320w Motor.

motionhealthcare.co.uk

www.tgamobility.co.uk

46 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE
www.thiis.co.uk / 47 DELIVERY l Nationwide delivery & installation l Removal & disposal of old products l Manufacturers warranties honoured l Owned & operated fleet of vehicles SERVICING l Annual equipment servicing l LOLER testing & inspection l Bed inspections & servicing l Engineer call-outs for repairs STORAGE l 35,000 Square foot warehouse l Short term storage solutions Experts in Healthcare Logistics Your Promises. Delivered. 0330 445 0099 info@hdd-ltd.com www.hdd-ltd.com CONTACT US TODAY MOTIVATION THROUGH INNOVATION Strident Innovations Head office address: 50 Turbine Way, Ecotech Business & Innovation Park, Swaffham, PE37 7XD T: +44 (0)1362 300102 | F: +44 (0)1362 300103 | sales@strident.uk.com www.stridenttyres.com Strident - a name you can rely on for tyres and tubes With over 20 years experience in the mobility tyre industry, Strident are perfectly placed to offer the widest range of high quality mobility tyres. Our range of solid tyres air filled tyres and inner tubes are designed to offer excellent levels of grip, longevity and reliability This comprehensive range is suitable for a wide range of mobility scooters and equipment To find out more about the Strident range of Mobility Tyre products please contact our salesteam now. STRIDENT TYRES THIIS ADVERT DEC 2021_Layout 1 07/12/2021 10:40 Page 1

Vita Lite scooter by TGA Mobility

Clean, modern design in a compact form, the Vita Lite scooter is ideal for getting around town.

A fully padded and adjustable seat provides full support for all-day comfort. Ergonomic handlebars, easy-to-use fingertip controls and an adjustable tiller mean that the user can find the perfect fit. The scooter boasts full suspension for a smooth ride and eye-catching alloy wheels with pneumatic tyres, providing excellent traction and stability.

Vita Lite brings the modern stylish design and large scooter features in the most compact model of the Vita range.

www.tgamobility.co.uk

Maxer ER scooter by Kymco Mobility

The Maxer ER 8mph scooter is the next-generation modern maxi-type mobility scooter, according to Kymco Mobility.

Utilising the very latest in technologies, Maxer offers advanced features and a modern design to enhance the user’s everyday life to the highest level. It features new 100Ah batteries, and can achieve 45 miles of range in one full charge, 10 more miles over the original Maxer.

Minimo Autofold scooter by TGA Mobility

Minimo Autofold folds itself in one simple automated action, making it easily ready to load on a plane, train or in the boot of the car. With all the benefits of the Minimo Plus, including the airline-compliant lithium battery pack, it is so lightweight it can be lifted with just one finger. It is possible to travel up to 10 miles per charge with a simple LED battery gauge to let the user know when it is time for a top-up. It features pneumatic tyres for a smooth and comfortable ride, tight turning circle, good ground clearance, adjustable tiller and armrests, generous legroom, simple fingertip controls and LED lighting.

www.tgamobility.co.uk

Maxer ER also includes amazing features for the end-user, such as eye-catching LED lighting, an LCD Dashboard, a ‘super comfort’ suspension system and a powerful motor and drive train system.

www. kymco .co.uk

48 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE

Travelling Has Never Been Easier or Smoother

With the GoGo-e, travelling has never been easier! This 4-wheel scooter has everything you need for a safe and convenient trip. With two 12 Ah batteries the GoGo-e will take you further at a good speed of 4 mph. All with a modest price point to suit anyones budget!

18 st 13 lbs

4 mph

37 kg

®
Red Black
Find the GoGo e online at: pride-mobility.co.uk/mobilityscooters/go-go-e/ Or phone Pride on: 01869 324600
Can hold up to...
to...
only...
Can drive up
Weighs

Monarch Air scooter by Monarch Mobility

The Monarch Air is the world’s lightest four-wheel mobility scooter, according to Monarch Mobility. Designed to be light and compact its tiller can be adjusted back and forth according to human comfort.

The scooter can be manually folded, and it can be pulled easily when folded. Equipped with high-performance brushless controller, users can operate it flexibly. The battery is removable for easy charging. Monarch Mobility states that it vets all of its new lines to ensure that they meet the user’s needs.

Three-wheelers might be light, but they are very unforgiving on corners (even at low speeds), it says, while four wheels are far more reassuring! The Monarch Air not only feels safe to operate, it offers the perfect driving position.

monarchmobility.com

Orion Pro scooter by Invacare

The Invacare Orion Pro focuses on enhanced performance and is a powerful upgrade to the Orion Metro. Orion Pro can meet the needs of those customers looking for improved battery performance and superior suspension, offering overall better performance and a smoother ride with its 12” wheels managing tougher surfaces and terrains. The Orion Pro includes the electronic speed reduction system which helps to ensure drivers are confidently making safe, comfortable manoeuvres.

Orion Pro is built with a host of quality components, which makes it both reliable and easy to maintain. The electronics and motor have additional protection to guard against water and corrosion, safeguarding the vital workings of the scooter against any unnecessary malfunctions. Also available in the range is the Orion Metro.

www.invacare.co.uk

scooter by Motion Healthcare

The Evolite offers a combination of an aluminium chassis and lithium battery technology, making it one of the lightest scooters of its kind on the UK market. It is aimed to be available to consumers at a lower price point than most similar products.

It easily disassembles into five lightweight easy to handle pieces, the heaviest of which weighs just 10kg. Combining a powerful- 250w motor and the comfort offered by the soft tyre compound, delta handlebar and extra thick seat padding the Evolite is a perfect all-round travel companion.

motionhealthcare.co.uk

50 / www.thiis.co.uk
RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE
Spring into scooters Our established scooter range is back! Contact your Territory Manager for more details All scooter models in stock www.invacare.co.uk Comet® Comet Ultra® Orion® Leo®

Sport Rider scooter by Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare

A modern 8mph scooter, the all-round suspension of this scooter provides excellent ride quality and handling, and its rotating sport-style seat has a sliding and reclining facility.

Other features include throttle lever with automatic safebraking system, telescopic front motorbike suspension and an additional hand brake for added security. Its illuminated controls feature a twin-dial digital dash and it has a trip computer with odometer for measuring distance travelled. All-round lighting, such as large headlights and rear brake lights, help to improve outdoor visibility when dark. It has a large accommodating footwell with a height-adjustable headrest, angle-adjustable handle bars and widthadjustable armrests. The scooter offers a maximum range of 28 miles.

mLite folding mobility scooter by Motion Healthcare

The mLite weighs just 19.9kg, making it one of the lightest folding mobility scooters on the UK market. The simple-to-remove CAA-approved lithium battery pack offers the option of both on- or off-board charging. Using a revolutionary quick and simple sliding mechanism the mLite also offers a comfortable spacious ride when unfolded but is still one of the most compact scooters on the market when folded. This allows it to fit in any car boot or even the rear footwell of most cars. The height-adjustable extendable handle also offers the ability to easily manoeuvre when folded, making it even easier to store or travel with using public transport.

motionhealthcare.co.uk

Mini Crosser scooter by Pride Mobility

With a weight capacity of up to 175kg and speeds of up to 8mph, the Mini Crosser is built with comfort in mind. The innovative swivel seat can be adapted to cater for all shapes and sizes, with adjustable height, depth, and width settings as well as movable arm and headrests –allowing the customer to find the perfect position for them. The light-sensitive control panel is equipped with every feature the user can think of, from the mileage tracker down to the anti-theft alarm. As well as this, the bright LED indicator and headlights can be altered to suit the driver’s needs. With a life expectancy of at least 10 years, the Mini Crosser is built from head to toe with adjustable features to ensure ultimate comfort that lasts.

pride-mobility.co.uk

52 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE
drivedevilbiss.co.uk
Award winning ultra-lightweight folding scooter 0800 138 2878 • www.efoldi.com • sales@efoldi.com LITE FOLDS & UNFOLDS IN SECONDS ONLY 1 5kg* * without batteries MOTIVATION THROUGH INNOVATION TM Strident Innovations Head office address: 50 Turbine Way Ecotech Business & Innovation Park Swaffham PE37 7XD T: +44 (0)1362 300102 | F: +44 (0)1362 300103 | sales@strident uk com www.stridentbatteries.com Strident - a name you can trust for high performance batteries With over 20 years experience, Strident are perfectly placed to offer the widest range of high quality battery products to the mobility and medical industries. Careful selection of only the highest quality raw materials consistent quality control throughout the entire production process and painstaking attention to every detail gives the Strident range its unique properties that can be trusted and relied upon in many vital mobility and medical applications To find out more about the Strident range of Mobility and Medical focused power products please contact our salesteam now. STRIDENT BATTERIES THIIS ADVERT DEC 2021_Layout 1 07/12/2021 10:42 Page 1

MobiFree folding scooter by Monarch Mobility

The MobiFree Folding Mobility Scooter boasts a versatile and easy-to-use design, according to Monarch Mobility. Each scooter can hit a top speed of 4mph and has a maximum battery range of up to nine miles. One of the features which makes the MobiFree so appealing is its unique manual folding system. Opening and closing in only five seconds, it is a user-friendly folding mobility scooter that is perfect for shopping and getting out and about. The scooter easily fits within the boot of a car. In addition to its compact design, the MobiFree tips the scales at a feather-light 19kg (battery excluded) making it a good option for those who like to be active and get out and about.

Alumina & Lithilite scooters by Motion Healthcare

The Alumina range offers the innovation of both a lightweight 9.9kg aluminium chassis and Lithium battery; similarly the Lithilite range offers a lithium battery with a Steel chassis. The Alumina and Lithilite offer a 15-mile range with a 4kg battery pack. The Lithilite and Alumina Pro go even further offering a 30-mile range with a 5kg battery pack. A smaller battery pack is also available, which complies with the CAA regulations for air travel.

Both the Alumina and Lithilite range are designed to be disassembled easily for transportation and are also fitted with an all-round suspension, giving an impressive ground clearance. The long and flat floorpan and adjustable tiller allow generous leg room alongside a larger than standard seat make for an amazingly comfortable ride.

motionhealthcare.co.uk

Colt Sport scooter by Pride Mobility

The new Colt Sport is fully loaded with sporty style and advanced features, including a DX Tiller, LED headlights and an advanced suspension seat post as well as an all-new memory foam adjustable seat. Drive at speeds up to 8mph with a weight capacity of up to 159kg.

pride-mobility.co.uk

monarchmobility.com

54 / www.thiis.co.uk RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE

(without battery)

• Max speed 6km/h

• Max drive distance 15km

• Max capacity 125kg

• Max Gradient 12 degrees

• Gyration radius 1.4m

• Driving system Rear wheel drive

• Solid Tires

• Brush motor

• Lithium Battery 24 10AH

• Charger: 25.9V 2A

(Output:25.9V 2A)

• Approved *Range

CALL CHRIS OR IAN ON 01422 323 888 TRADE@MONARCHMOBILITY.COM WWW.MONARCHMOBILITY.COM Weighs Only 19KG
Folds in 5 seconds! 4mph 9 miles range 18 stone capacity FREE
is dependent upon user weight, terrain, incline, temperature and battery conditions.

Explorer folding lifestyle scooter from eFOLDi

This lightweight and compact folding 8mph scooter is ultra-portable. Offering style and versatility it folds and unfolds in a matter of seconds and fits easily into most car boots with no complex assembly required.

Weighing just 17kg, excluding batteries, the eFOLDi Explorer features a high-specification, airline-friendly lithium battery and a durable aluminium-alloy chassis, making it super-lightweight and extremely robust.

Lightweight components and energy-efficient lithium battery technology means the eFOLDi Explorer scooter costs less than one pence per mile to use.

www.efoldi.com

Colt Executive scooter by Pride Mobility

The Colt Executive comes with full suspension, low-profile pneumatic tyres and a hydraulic sealed brake system. The Colt Executive is a blend of power and precision. It features a sleek style and a wealth of standard luxury touches like a wraparound delta tiller, new double A-arm suspension, new terrain pneumatic gripping tyres and LED lighting, making it the ultimate outdoor scooter.

pride-mobility.co.uk

Smarti Plus folding scooter by Monarch Mobility

Ground-breaking when first launched, the original Smarti quickly became a customer favourite, according to Monarch Mobility. One of the only auto-folding mobility scooters with rear suspension it has an improved weather-resistant chassis. This deluxe edition of the folding legend comes with enhanced comfort features, headlight and USB point.

Powered by the latest generation of ultra-light lithium-ion battery pack, the Smarti Plus can achieve up to nine miles of range and cruises at 4mph. With electro-magnetic brakes, rear suspension and a posture relief support chair, the Smarti Plus combines comfort and convenience. At the touch of a button the scooter folds away in a matter of seconds.

monarchmobility.com

56 / www.thiis.co.uk

Motion Healthcare

The Airium offers both lithium battery technology and a lightweight aluminium chassis, making it the lightest pavement scooter on the UK market. With its 25-mile range and 135kg weight limit the Airium offers the size, comfort and performance of a pavement scooter at the weight of a much smaller car boot scooter. Easily disassembling into four pieces, the heaviest piece is just 13kg. The lithium battery pack weighs just 7kg.

The powerful 250w motor and large 9” wheels with super-soft tyre compound combine with the larger padded seat and delta handlebar to ensure on a long journey the user is as comfortable as possible. Airium is one of the best allround solutions available for both long journeys and travelling.

motionhealthcare.co.uk

Komfy 8 scooter by Kymco Mobility

The Komfy 8 provides the user with a pavement and road-worthy Class III mobility scooter, offering comfort, style, manoeuvrability, and performance.

Designed with particular attention to superior ergonomics and comfort, it is one of the most flexible and easy-to-use 8mph scooters on the market, according to Kymco Mobility. It is packed with many features that the user would expect from a modern, advanced mobility scooter of this type.

www.kymco.co.uk

Alumalite Plus scooter by Pride Mobility

One of the lightest aluminium travel scooters on the market, this lightweight and compact travel scooter comes with airline safe batteries (12ah only). Easy to put into the boot, its heaviest piece weighs only 11.6kg. The Apex Alumalite plus, with its aluminium frame, weighs only 33.6 kg making it one of Pride Mobility’s lightest four-wheeled scooters yet! It also comes with optional 30Ah batteries for extra range (the 30Ah are not flight safe).

pride-mobility.co.uk

www.thiis.co.uk / 57

Xcite scooter by Motion Healthcare

The Xcite is Motion Healthcare’s first 8mph scooter. With modern styling and tried and tested quality, the Xcite offers a competitive 25mile range as standard, with large wheels and suspension to offer a great compact 8mph scooter.

The Xcite Li is a ‘game changer’ according to Motion Healthcare, as it takes all of the above and achieves a 45-mile range using lithium phosphate batteries, the safest of all available lithium batteries.

motionhealthcare.co.uk

TISSUE VIABILITY NURSE ADVISOR

Harvest Healthcare are a fast-growing pressure care focused organisation, with a large clinical equipment presence in the major care home groups and many community equipment providers. We are looking for an experienced Tissue Viability Nurse to join our business to support our customer experience and resident/enduser outcomes, as well as drive clinical improvement within the business.

This role would be home based, preferably in the Midlands area, but only suitable for someone who is willing to travel multiple times per week – the position has national coverage, including visiting our head o ice in Rotherham.

To be at the forefront of clinical excellence within Harvest Healthcare, and support our customers to provide the best care for residents/patients, through tailored clinical initiatives, market-leading development, best practice training, and accessible information strategies.

KEY POINTS...

• To provide strategic support, direction & advice to the Key Account Managers to help deliver on sustainable customer development.

• Provide direct pressure care support to care homes with poor outcomes, to drive best practice both within the home, and at care home group level.

• Provide clinical support for marketing, to advise and develop tools and services for customers within our sectors to improve outcomes

• Work with our new product development team to provide clinical insight into market issues and product concepts, and support these during market research and

through product launch and post-market surveillance.

• Attend relevant industry shows as a presence on the stand, if we are exhibiting, and to understand the latest trends and market challenges

• Undertake a training needs analysis for potential partner accounts

• Link with local and national Tissue Viability Networks

• Support onboarding of new starters with clinical education and assistance.

• Work with our regulatory team to understand and provide the clinical input to support our products in the market.

YOU...

• Work well supporting a cohesive, friendly team

• Have a strong sense of business acumen and commercial awareness

• Are a dynamic, driven individual with a proactive attitude

• Are able to manage a diverse workload, and prioritise accordingly

• Have great interpersonal skills and are confident speaking/presenting to groups

• Can tailor information to a wide variety of audiences

• Are confident to take a critical role within a growing business

• Want to grow a ‘business oriented’ career

Please send you CV to: jackie.spendlove@harvesthealthcare.co.uk

58 / www.thiis.co.uk Please contact us for our trade catalogue: Tel 01460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk NEW: CROWNING GLORY ADJUSTABLE CANE RETAILERS’ BUYING GUIDE
This organisation is a member of the British Healthcare Trades Association.

Karma mobility ltd

Unit 6 target ParK, redditch

Worcestershire b98 8yn

T: 0845 630 3436

E: info@karmamobiliTy.co.uk

www.karmamobiliTy.co.uk

The Ergo Lite 2 transit weighs just 8.5kg complete and the self-propel breaks down to 6kg making them among the very lightest wheelchairs available on the market.

Ergo Lite 2 Transit Wheelchair Ergo Lite 2 Self Propel Wheelchair THE ERGO LITE 2, PROUD WINNER OF

Vita Lite

Venture out in style with the Vita Lite. Clean, modern design in a compact form, ideal for getting around town. A fully padded and adjustable seat provides full support for all day comfort. Ergonomic handlebars, easy to use fingertip controls and an adjustable tiller mean that everyone can find the perfect fit.

Sleek and strong alloy wheels, pneumatic tyres and full suspension provide excellent traction, stability and control.

tgamobility.co.uk | trade.sales@tgamobility.co.uk | 01787 888 106 FEEL MOVED
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