British Red Cross reveals plans to replace mobility aid service centres with single warehouse
The British Red Cross has announced plans to provide its mobility aid service from a single warehouse – most likely in Sheffield – which would result in the closure of its service centres across the UK.
The worldwide humanitarian aid charity confirmed it was “reviewing how we provide mobility aid support” and consulting with staff and volunteers.
Clive MacTavish, Chief Financial Officer for the British Red Cross, commented: “We are proud to be one of the biggest providers of temporary wheelchairs in the UK, a service that first began in 1914, and has helped a huge number of people maintain their independence. But the reality is demand for this service has decreased, while running costs have significantly increased.
“As a result, we are currently reviewing how we provide this support and are consulting with our valued team of staff and volunteers. We have put a proposal to staff and volunteers as to how we provide this service in future.
“Our proposal is that we provide wheelchairs from a single warehouse, with wheelchairs delivered directly to customers homes the next day. This would allow us to continue to provide wheelchairs across the country to people who need them, whilst also reducing running costs.’
“We recognise some people will have concerns about losing the face-to-face interaction, we’re committed to continuing to provide an excellent service to customers.”
The proposals are in Collective Consultation with staff and volunteers at British Red Cross, which is expected to end on April 9. The proposed location for the single warehouse is Sheffield but no decision will be made until the outcome of consultation.
The news has been met with some disappointment from service centre volunteers who argue that their shops are lifelines in offering essential items at affordable prices for elderly and disabled people, as well as those with failing eyesight and hearing who may not have access to computers or find it difficult to communicate over the telephone.
British Red Cross retail shops will not be affected by the consultation plans.
