Repair of Assistive Products in the UK: Wheelchairs. Outcomes of a 1-day workshop exploring this topic from user, community and provision system perspectives

Kenney, Laurence; Nagaraja, Vikranth

Abstract

Our recent one-day workshop brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to examine the challenges and opportunities in wheelchair repair services. By engaging multiple perspectives, we gained valuable insights into how improved repair processes can enhance service delivery, empower users, and support sustainability efforts.

Key discussions focused on the urgent need to address data gaps in repair practices, promote user involvement, and shift towards systems that prioritise repair and maintenance. Innovative ideas, such as creating digital profiles for wheelchairs and using AI to predict breakdowns, were explored as ways to streamline repair services and improve user autonomy.

Going forward, collaboration between manufacturers, healthcare providers, and users will be essential to building a more sustainable, user-centred approach to wheelchair repairs.

• Working Paper Type: Discussion Paper
• Online Publication Date: Oct 18, 2024
• Publication Date: Oct 18, 2024
• Deposit Date: Oct 21, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Oct 21, 2024