Westminster Hall Debate on Disability Equipment Provision

The APPG for Access to Disability Equipment is grateful to the speakers who contributed during last weeks debate on disability equipment provision, and the issues people with disabilities face in accessing this equipment: Seamus Logan MP, Daniel Francis MP, Helen Maguire BEM MP, and Dr Luke Evans MP.

Speakers discussed how the delivery system for this essential equipment is fragmented across local authorities and integrated care boards, which creates unclear accountability and variation in equipment provision. Some families are forced to wait months, if not years, for equipment they need to go about their daily lives. These failures not only undermine people’s independence but also increase pressure on hospitals, with 74% of professionals reporting delayed discharges due to unavailable equipment at home.

This discussion reflects our recent report, "Barriers to Accessing Lifesaving Disability Equipment", which calls for the implementation of a co-ordinated national plan that would streamline the delivery process, reduce delays, and prevent unnecessary hospital stays.