Physios urged to adopt equipment standards code

The CSP had a significant involvement in helping to develop the code, which is aimed at ensuring that disabled people are provided with safe, appropriate equipment.

It aims to maintain standards of provision of equipment covering aids for daily living, including shower chairs and kettle tippers, children’s equipment, wheelchairs and communication aids.

Brian Donnelly, a former adviser to the Welsh government on equipment, originally proposed the idea.

He worked closely with Philippa Ford, CSP policy officer for Wales, on designing standards for use in Wales in 2010. The resulting guidance has been built into the new code, which is primarily aimed at services in England but also applies to other parts of the UK.

CSP professional adviser Leonie Dawson was singled out by Mr Donnelly for her support of the development of the code at its launch in November 2011.

Ms Dawson said: ‘The CSP has strongly supported the development of this code and physiotherapists involved in the provision of equipment to patients are urged to go to the website to register as accredited users of the code.’

The new code is intended to guide policy makers and commissioners as well as service users, carers and health and social care professionals.

It is being administered by the not-for-profit organisation CECOPS (Community equipment code of practice scheme)

See www.cecops.org.uk