AAT GB takes on management of stairclimbers for council in local authority first
Leeds City Council is outsourcing some of its equipment services to stairclimbing company AAT GB as it claims this will achieve better value and use of resources.
The arrangement with Britain’s biggest stairclimbing company, the council states, means that assessment of user needs, and the re-issue of the equipment that is tailored to them, is delivered more quickly and efficiently, and at less overall cost .
Under the deal, AAT stores and manages the local authority’s stock of stairclimbers. These battery-powered devices enable people with impaired mobility to be single-handedly transferred up and down stairs safely, easily and with dignity.
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 Jane Fisher, Leeds City Council Occupational Therapy Team Manager.
“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.”
Leeds City Council is the first local authority to take advantage of AAT’s equipment store deal.
https://thiis.co.uk/aat-gb-takes-on-management-of-stairclimbers-for-council-in-local-authority-first/https://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Webp.net-resizeimage-2.jpghttps://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Webp.net-resizeimage-2-150x150.jpgNewsroomSupplier NewsTrade Newscost,deal,devices,equipment,Leeds City Council. AAT GB,Mobility,stairclimbers,stairclimbing,store,valueLeeds City Council is outsourcing some of its equipment services to stairclimbing company AAT GB as it claims this will achieve better value and use of resources. The arrangement with Britain’s biggest stairclimbing company, the council states, means that assessment of user needs, and the re-issue of the equipment that...Liane McIvorLiane McIvorliane@thiis.co.ukEditorTHIIS Magazine