This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
A new fleet of three vans has started work this week for the Integrated Community Equipment Services (ICES).
This is a joint service provided by the Isle of Wight’s Council, Clinical Commissioning Group and NHS Trust, and supports the My Life a Full Life programme of putting people at the centre of their care.
Equipment loan
ICES loans equipment to people on a short or long-term basis, to both increase their safety and promote continued independence at home, such as profiling beds, hoists, bathing equipment, and much more.
Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists or Community Nurses will prescribe the equipment after an assessment; usually following a stay in hospital or after a recent illness or diagnosis.
In 2015 ICES has already issued 16,000 pieces of equipment.
Rolling replacement programme
The new vans were purchased as part of a rolling replacement programme within the local authority. They will provide the reliability and capability to enable a timely response to the ever growing demand of supporting people in the community with specialised equipment. The new fleet will:
- be cheaper to run with improved ‘miles per gallon’ and less repairs required
- be more environmentally friendly due to more modern engines, etc.
- achieve Medium Term financial savings in maintenance
- be purchased with payments over the course of a number of years
Ultimately, by continuing this more streamlined and efficient service, the need for a more costly support service or long term admission to a care home will be reduced, and will protect against unnecessary hospital admissions.
My Life a Full Life
In line with the aspirations of the My Life a Full Life programme this service places the person at the centre of care provision by:
- improving quality of life
- promoting independent living
- reducing risks of slips, trips and falls within the home environment
- reducing pressure on carers
- improving confidence
- reducing risks within the home environment
- allowing clients to manage their conditions safely.
Councillor Steve Stubbings, Executive Member for Adult Social Care, said:
“The ICES has an excellent reputation locally among its clients, providing a first rate service to the public that enables its clients to stay safe and independent. The new vehicles will not only help them to continue this service efficiently, but will also help to promote the service to more people who could benefit.”
