Home Products and Services Leeds achieves best value in efficient delivery of equipment services

Leeds achieves best value in efficient delivery of equipment services

by mojohand

In these days of changing ways of working, Leeds City Council is achieving better value and use of resources by out-sourcing some of its equipment services.

The innovative arrangement with Britain’s  biggest stairclimbing company AAT GB means that assessment of user needs, and re-issue of the equipment that is tailored to them, is expediated more quickly and efficiently, and at less overall cost .

Under the deal, AAT stores and manages the local authority’s stock of stairclimbers-the battery-powered devices that enable anyone with impaired mobility to be single-handedly transferred up and down stairs safely, easily and with dignity without the cost and disruption of traditional solutions (eg astairlift or through-floor lift).

The process means the Council can optimise use of available space within its equipment stores,  and is spared the administration time and therefore cost of managing the stairclimbers, their accessories and power packs. It also accelerates the process from initial assessment to provision of equipment.

“The service we have received has been extremely positive,” says Leeds City Council Occupational Therapy Team Manager Jane Fisher. “Funds and time are under pressure now more than ever. This means we can quickly empower clients to still be able to access all levels of their home, with the peace of mind that the right kit is being supplied, maintained and serviced, and  in full working order. It takes a pressure off the already busy stores team, and enables effective delegation and employment of specialised resources so we can make best use of our time and expertise.”

“It’s about balancing cost and value,” adds AAT Technical Director Gareth Brown. “The arrangement means we save the Council money overall, and its residents get better value.

“The Council can make best use of available resources at the equipment stores. We know exactly what stairclimbers and accessories are available, so, having assessed the client, can advise on what is needed, then deliver to and train the user- all within a matter of days of receiving the initial call from the Occupational Therapy team. If specific accessories are needed, we know what is in stock, or what the Council needs to purchase, so there is no unnecessary duplication.”

Almost every local authority in the UK has at least one AAT stairclimber in its equipment stores stock. Leeds City Council is the first local authority to take advantage of AAT’s innovative equipment store deal. The alternative equipment store offer is the latest forward-thinking solution from the stairclimber people, after AAT’s introduction of remote team meetings for OT teams, and development of new product accessories to simplify life for specifiers and users alike.

To find out how to take advantage of the latest best value offering, contact sales@aatgb.com or telephone 01978 821875.

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