Stairlift not considered. — Scope | Disability forum
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Stairlift not considered.

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julieam
julieam Community member Posts: 12 Listener
Hello, if someone has a downstairs toilet, and the social services team say they are not eligible for a stairlift because of this, is there a way to object to this as , ridiculously, they can't fit person and frame into the downstairs toilet!

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  • Jean_OT
    Jean_OT Community member Posts: 513 Pioneering
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    Hi @julieam

    Has an OT actually visited to assess the property and the needs of the disabled person?

    It isn't always necessary for a person to take their walking frame into the toilet with them. Often it is more convenient to leave it at the door but this normally requires the installation of handrails and/or toilet frame. However this does need to be properly assessed and often the disabled person coached on how to manage the procedure as safely as possible.

    If it really isn't possible for the disabled person to access the downstairs toilet even with adaptation then it shouldn't be counted as a toilet and other plans need to be made.

    Personally I'm not a fan of using a stairlift as a person's only means to get to the toilet, especially if there are any 'urgency' issues. Stairlifts are slow and when people are rushing they tend to not be as safety conscious as would be desirable.

    If you are not getting the service you need make a formal complaint using their complaints procedure and escalate it as necessary.

    Best Wishes

    Jean  

    Jean Merrilees BSc MRCOT

    You can read more of my posts at: https://community.scope.org.uk/categories/ask-an-occupational-therapist

  • julieam
    julieam Community member Posts: 12 Listener
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    Thanks Jean, yes the home has been assessed, but this person has had a brain tumour partially removed and has to use a frame.

  • Jean_OT
    Jean_OT Community member Posts: 513 Pioneering
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    so if you don't feel the assessment was fit for purpose and the disabled person has been left unable to access the loo you will need to make a formal complaint.
    Good Luck. Do post again if you need further advice
    Jean

    Jean Merrilees BSc MRCOT

    You can read more of my posts at: https://community.scope.org.uk/categories/ask-an-occupational-therapist

  • julieam
    julieam Community member Posts: 12 Listener
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    Thank you, much appreciated.

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