People who use equipment service invited to new forum

We’ve joined forces with Medequip, which runs the Wiltshire Community Equipment Service, to launch the Independent Living Open Forum.

The service, which Medequip runs on behalf of Wiltshire Council and Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, provides aids, equipment and minor adaptations to help people maintain their independence.

The forum, taking place from 10.30pm-12pm on Wednesday 16 November, is open to anyone who uses the Wiltshire Community Equipment Service, or cares for someone who does. The free event will provide a friendly space for people to share their views and experiences directly with frontline staff at Medequip.

Catharine Symington, Interim Manager at Healthwatch Wiltshire, said:

“Joining our forum gives you the chance to talk about what works for you and what would make your life easier directly with the Medequip team. And by sharing your experiences, you'll also be helping others.”

The forum's launch follows on from Healthwatch Wiltshire’s survey last year, which looked at all aspects of Medequip's service, from how equipment is delivered and installed in people's homes, to how it's serviced and collected.  

Michaela Harris, Medequip's General Manager for the South West and Suffolk, said:

“The feedback we received from the Healthwatch survey has allowed us to really tailor our services in Wiltshire.
 
"We want people to see what we have done as a direct result of this feedback and the forum will enable us to answer their questions and hear their ideas for how the service can be developed in the future."

The forum is to be held quarterly, both in person and online. 

You can join the forum either on Zoom or in person, at the Independent Living Centre in Semington, near Trowbridge.