§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the follow-up service regarding the provision of wheelchairs by his Department; if he will consider earlier visits to the homes of patients fitted with wheelchairs to see that they are of a suitable size and model; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AlisonEvery effort is made to issue the right chair initially but only experience in use for some time can confirm its suitability. Some eight months ago, therefore, the follow-up service was improved by asking new users to say after they had had a chair for three months whether it met their requirements. A domiciliary visit is then made if necessary. This arrangement will be reviewed in the light of experience.
A forthcoming booklet of advice which will be supplied to all new wheelchair users on how to get the best out of their chairs will supplement these follow-up arrangements.