DOLPHIN MOBILTY

Stair Lifts

Brave ex-servicemen - left homeless after their time with the forces ended - have new lives thanks to the Royal British Legion.

Simon Worsfold (48) served as a firefighter in the RAF for 13 years.

When his service finished, he and his wife bought a home in Grimsby, and Simon began working for the Legion as a case worker.

But when his marriage broke down, Simon found himself homeless on the streets of Grimsby with nobody to help.

"I was in a dead end," he said. "I'd had a triple heart bypass and wasn't well.

"Luckily, I only lived rough for weeks before I turned to the Legion for help."

And the Legion helped Simon turn his life around in his time of need.

They not only found him accommodation in a shared house on Isaac's Hill, Cleethorpes, but also secured him a job at Sentiments Funeral Directors, in Chantry Lane, Grimsby.

Simon said: "I don't know where I'd be without the Legion - they have given me my life back."

He is now preparing to undertake a one-year course to become a funeral director, funded by the Legion.

He added: "I've experienced the work the Legion does from both sides and it's just great."

Ted Davy, the British Legion's regional welfare secretary and Poppy Appeal organiser, said: "Last year, we raised &pound37,000 in Lincolnshire and we have spent already &pound70,000 on 250 people since November.

"It's awful the way that ex-servicemen are abandoned when they leave the services.

"There's no care, support or advice available, so we provide it.

"We not only care for ex-service people but their families as well.

"I have been given an electric scooter and a stairlift myself and it's made my life so much easier."

Another man who has benefited from the services of the legion is Lanny Powell (43), of Garibaldi Street, Grimsby.

He served in the Army twice before returning home in 1996.

He was the victim of a violent "happy slapping" attack and found himself homeless for months.

"The attack really affected me, especially my memory," he said.

"The Salvation Army gave me somewhere to stay, then I heard about the Legion and they offered me help."

Lanny now has a flat, furniture and is looking for a job.

He said: "The Legion has changed my life - it does a fantastic job."

Find out more

Contact the Royal British Legion, based in Cartergate, Grimsby, on (01472) 354135. Visit www.britishlegion.org.uk

posted on 'LEGION HELPED at O at URN MY LIFE AROUND'




This video shows the easy all in one folding action of the new Stannah stairlift seats. Available from Stannah and selected distributor's such as Dolphin Mobility.

posted on Stannah Stairlifts folding seat



The Stannah 420 stairlift hinge folds up and down automatically as the chair rides up and down the stairs.

posted on Stannah 420 hinged stairlift

Lift Able acquired by ThyssenKrupp group.

http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2008/03/27/firm-s-quality-leads-to-sale-51140-20680874/

Handicare AS acquires Freelift.

http://www.freelift.com/en/customer/press-release.html

Acorn Stairlifts, who also own Brooks, buy Bison Bede.

http://sparedolphin.blogspot.com/2007/11/acorn-mobility-acquire-bison-bede.html

posted on All change in Stairlift industry

Mabels . . . For the over 50sIncludes articles, news, humour, financial & retirement advice, money saving tips, nostalgia, health & mobility and more for the over 50s.

posted on Mabels website

The Freelift Curved Stairlift. Available in the UK from Dolphin Stair Lifts.

posted on Freelift Curved Stairlift

Below is a reply I posted to a forum where a user had asked for advice on stairlifts.

I will be totally honest and declare that I am in fact a director of a company that sells stairlifts and if I'm breaking any forum rules then please ask the mods to delete my post.I would urge you to exercise extreme caution when contemplating the suitability of a stairlift. Firstly they are not always the best solution. Many people find that a through the floor lift is more suitable for their needs particularly if you are young and will be using the lift for many years. Stairlifts are not very adaptable if your condition is likely to change in the near future.

My advice would be to consult a healthcare professional such as an occupational therapist to ensure that you are given impartial advice as to the suitability of a stairlift. A good place to start might be an Independent Living centre where in many cases you can actually try equipment before you look to get in touch with stairlift firms.With regard to prices, try typing 'stairlift' into the google search engine and there are some companies that will give you an idea on cost. Many firms are reluctant to give prices up front because they try and get as much money from each sale as possible. Reputable firms will not do this and will be happy to tell you upfront what it is likely to cost.

If you do get to the point of contacting companies for quotes I would always recommend speaking to at least 3 companies to get a better idea of what you will need to pay. Be slightly wary of adverts in the national press as ultimately you will be paying the very high advertising costs. Also don't forget that in many circumstances you may be able to get help from your local authority in the form of a Disabled Facilities Grant or similar. Even if they are unable to help financially they may be able to point you in the direction of a reputable stairlift company that they use. If a stairlift is suitable for you and you have to fund it yourself then try to find a house with a straight staircase as straight stairlifts are half the price of curved lifts.

Hope this helps in some small way, it's tricky for me to go into more detail without being accused of using the forums to advertise my company. Just make sure that you don't rush into anything and that you seek advice from as many people as possible because, unfortunately, there are many companies out there looking to make a quick buck.

I should also add that for a lot of people having a stairlift can dramatically improve their standard of life and the most enjoyable part of my job is having customers call me to say how wonderful the lift is and that they wish they'd got one years ago.

posted on Stairlift Costs

Dolphin Mobility now have a Facebook page with images of stair lifts and other mobility aids.

posted on Stairlift photo's on Facebook

THE Vale of Glamorgan Brass Band has recently received a sponsorship deal from Dolphin Stairlifts South Wales Limited.

This is the first time in the bands history that an alliance has been made with a business in the South Wales area. It is also a first for the South Wales based firm.

John Pearce, managing director of the Dolphin Stairlifts was pleased to offer assistance to the band when hearing of the work that has been undertaken during recent years.

The band has been able to offer services free of charge to a residential care home and a day centre for elderly persons and is possibly looking to increase this activity in the build up to Christmas and in the New Year.

Terry Short, the band's Chairman said: "It has been usual for the band to carry out fundraising to meet it's own operating costs around the Christmas period, but with the new sponsorship and recent grants received we hope to be able to extend our charity work with some fundraising efforts being made for Cancer Research".

The band are seen in the photograph with the resident Musical Director, Dave Short (Back row), Mark Weston of Dolphin Lifts South Wales Limited and the bands president, Cllr Jeffrey James (second row).

The sponsorship that has included the provision of new polo shirts with the name of the band and the company logo of Dolphin Stairlifts has meant the band has also been able to release other funds to help the junior and training sections of the band. The success of this new initiative has already seen younger players join the senior band.

Terry Short explained: "New players and those who cannot play a brass instrument at the moment are always welcome in the band. Our learning band runs on Monday's from 6.30pm to 7.30pm which is then followed by the senior band that concludes around 9.30pm."

The band practises in a recently refurbished and dedicated building in grounds owned by the Barry Athletic Club. You needn't worry if you don't have your own instrument as the band supplies these and most of the music you will need. Percussion and drum skills are also in demand by the band!

The band is also setting up a series of "turn up and have a go sessions."

This will enable people to try something they have never done before without attending a formal lesson or rehersal; you could have a go at blowing a cornet or perhaps one of the larger instruments in the band.

The only talent required is the ability blow, the band will show you how to make some noise!

Details of the bands activities can be obtained from the band's secretary Angela Coomer on 01446 400846 or musical director Dave Short 01446 408741, or via the bands website www.valeofglamorganbrassband.com or Email: valeofglamorganbrassband@hotmail.com

posted on Dolphin Stairlifts South Wales Sponsor Brass Band

The following images show the Freelift Van Gogh Stairlift with a downward facing seat. The chair swivels at an angle of 45 degrees.




Swivel Seat Stairlift
Freelift Swivel Seat
Stairlift Swivel
For more information and prices visit the Dolphin Stair Lifts website.

posted on Downward facing stairlift seat

New Forest council has £50,000 left in its renovation grant fund for the last four months of the year. Grants of up to £5,000 are available for essential repairs and adaptations.

Disabled facilities grants are still available for people who require adaptations, such as wheelchair ramps, stairlifts and bathroom and kitchen improvements. They apply to home owners and tenants alike. Call the grants helpline on 023 8028 5151.

posted on Hampshire grants for renovations

The least expensive Stannah chair available is the Saxon, which is shown below.


Stannah Saxon Stairlift
If you are considering the purchase of a Stannah stairlift and are confused by which chair is the most suitable for you then contact Dolphin Stair Lifts on 0800 9800 126.

posted on Stannah 420 Straight Stairlift with Saxon chair

The image below shows a Stannah 420 straight stair lift with a Sofia chair. Again the chair can be used on the straight rail and the curved rail.


Stannah Sofia Stairlift

The Sofia is very similar to the Solus chair and features the same options and extras. The main difference is in the design of the chair. Leather upholstery is not an option on the Sofia but is available on the Solus in a choice of 3 colours.

posted on Stannah 420 Straight Stairlift with Sofia chair

This picture shows the Solus chair being used on a straight stairlift rail.

Stannah Solus Stairlift

Stannah are currently the only stairlift manufacturer that make a chair that can be power swivelled in both directions. The two way powered swivel is available on the Solus and Sofia chairs only. The Solus and Sofia can only be purchased through Stannah direct and a select group of dealers such as Dolphin Stair Lifts.


posted on Stannah 420 Straight Stairlift with Solus Chair

The image below shows a Stannah 260 curved rail stairlift fitted with a Solus chair.

Solus Curved Stairlift

This is one of the new Stannah Stairlift chairs that have been developed in conjuction with the design agency Seymour Powell.

posted on Stannah Stair Lifts - Solus Curved Stairlift

After visiting the Stannah factory this week, I thought it might be a good idea to post a few images of the new product ranges. The images below show a Stannah 420 stairlift with a powered folding hinge fitted.

Powered Hinge Stair Lift
Powered Hinge Stairlift

A folding hinge is required on a stairlift when there is a door or open hallway at the bottom of the staircase.

posted on Stannah 420 Stairlift Powered Hinge

You can view product videos on the Dolphin Lifts YouTube page at http://www.youtube.com/dolphinlifts.

posted on Dolphin Lifts on You at ube

Confirmation came this week that Acorn Mobility Services Limited have acquired Bison Bede Ltd. We have been told that Bison will continue to operate with its dealers as normal and that there are to be no changes to product names, lead times or availability.

posted on Acorn Mobility Acquire Bison Bede

Dolphin Stairlifts Surrey branch have a huge selection of reconditioned stairlifts in stock. Many of the lifts have unfortunately had very little use and with installed prices starting from £800 for a straight stairlift there are some great bargains to be had.

A reconditioned or secondhand stairlift is every bit as good as a brand new one and if you buy from Dolphin then you can enjoy the peace of mind of having your stairlift professionally installed by experts. A list of reconditioned stairlifts is available on their website.

posted on Reconditioned Secondhand Stairlifts

Following the closure of the Independent Life Shop in Ashford, where Dolphin Stairlifts were displaying some equipment, Ian Elford of Dolphin Stairlifts in Kent would like to assure customers that Dolphin Stairlifts(Kent) is still in operation. Following their recent expansion, they have moved offices and warehousing facilities to Stanford, just off the M20 at junction 11.

Dolphin Stairlifts (Kent)
Kent Outside M25
Yew Tree Farm
Stone Street
Stanford
Ashford, Kent
TN25 6DH

Tel: 01303 813606
Fax: 01303 264409

posted on Dolphin Stairlifts Kent move offices

Dolphin (Chester) have opened a new Branch in Ellesmere Port. This office will cover the areas of Cheshire, Wirral and North Wales. What was Dolphin (Chester) is now called Dolphin (Midshires) and will cover the areas of Staffordshire, Shropshire and Mid Wales. The details are as follows:

Dolphin (Midshires)
Rubicon Centre
Broad Ground Road
Lakeside
Redditch
B98 8YP
01527 404303

email - mikebligh@dolphinlifts.co.uk mikebligh@msn.com

Dolphin (Chester)Ltd
Stanlaw Abbey Business Centre
Dover Drive
Ellesmere Port
Cheshire
CH65 9BF
Tel: 0151 355 5550

email - mikebligh@dolphinlifts.co.uk mikebligh@msn.com

posted on New Dolphin Stairlifts Branch

One of the new adverts from Stannah Stairlifts. The campaign focuses on people's attitudes to having a stair lift.

posted on Stannah Stairlift Advert

This article was published on the Mature Times website.

Stannah Stairlifts Limited and Stannah Lift Holdings Limited have recently reached out of court settlements with both County Stairlifts Limited and Platinum Rails Limited to stop either business from using Stannah’s trade marks to advertise, promote, sell or install second hand curved stairlifts re-fabricated from parts originally manufactured by Stannah.The settlements require that Stannah’s trade marks are permanently removed from the stairlift chair and motor unit.

This is a significant victory for Stannah who received a large number of complaints from people who bought second hand re-fabricated curved stairlifts from a variety of sources in the belief that Stannah was responsible for the quality and performance of the stairlift - which was not the case.

The design and installation process for re-fabricated products is radically different from the process that Stannah uses. Stannah did not approve these installations as they had no control over how well the re-fabricated assembly would perform. In fact re-fabricated products often fall well short of both British Standards and Stannah’s own quality standards.

Jon Stannah, the company's Managing Director, said: "We are delighted that we have reached these settlements as we have become increasingly concerned that consumers were being misled to think that they where buying an original Stannah stairlift, albeit secondhand, and that these stairlifts were approved by Stannah as they bore our trade marks. "When we install a curved stairlift it is a bespoke design for our customer’s staircase. Those being sold secondhand are ‘best fit’ from unwanted curved rails originally designed for a completely different staircase. In our view, these fall well short of our quality and performance standards."

posted on Legal action stops stairlift customer being mislead

An article from the Yorkshire Post.

By Andrew Robinson

Leeds Council is proposing to give disabled people more freedom with a £2m boost to help them live independently in their own homes.

Its Executive Board is to consider giving an extra £2m to assist disabled Leeds home-owners meet the cost of necessary modifications to their houses.This would almost double the present budget to £4.5m.Private homeowners and tenants with disabled members of their household are eligible for grants up to £25,000 to adapt their homes to improve access to and around the home. These adaptations can range from external ramps to special showers, stair lifts and even extensions.

The council's own agency offers applicants help in designing and drawing up the works schedule, securing any necessary approvals and allocating and supervising the work undertaken by nominated contractors.In the last two years the amount spent in assisting Leeds residents has increased from £2.17m in 2004-5 to £3.75m at the end of March. Based on the number of applications currently being dealt with, the budget for 2007-8 has risen to £4.5m.

The level of Government support for 2007-8 will be £1.569m – equivalent to 35 per cent – leaving the council to find almost £3m. The council estimates that the cost of helping disabled residents in 2008-9 could reach £6m and has submitted an advance bid, asking the Government to meet its 60 per cent contributionFor information and help on disabled facilities grants call the Adaptations Agency on 0113 3957147 or email hsg.adaptation.services.help.desk@leeds.gov.uk


posted on City may give disabled people more help with adapting their homes

The following article appeared in the Manchester Evening News.

Bethan Dorsett 25/ 7/2007

A DISABLED pensioner can't have a stairlift in her home - because she is 'too fat'.Sylvia Hocking, who suffers badly with arthritis, applied to Rochdale council for the lift because she finds it difficult to climb the stairs of her home in Kirkholt. But the 66-year-old gran of two was told by the adult care service that, because she weighs 24st, she has reached the maximum weight limit for a stairlift.

Her request will be reviewed in three months, but only if she loses weight. Mrs Hocking claims she has shed over two stone since she went on a crash diet, but needs urgent help from the council. She said: "I feel abandoned. I have to use a chemical toilet in the kitchen because I can't get up and down the stairs due to pain in my knees and right ankle. "If there comes a time when I lose enough weight and don't need the lift any more then they can take it out, but at the moment I desperately need it." I have severe breathing problems and my doctor says I am on the verge of heart failure because of my weight." It might be months before I lose enough weight to get about the house.

"I am already on a diet and I plan to lose 10st." Mrs Hocking says she was initially informed she was eligible for a stairlift but has now been told her weight is on the borderline for the maximum it can take. A letter from a council occupational therapist said it had been decided to allow her 'time to achieve her goal of weight reduction'.The letter continued: "Your GP has informed us that much of your current mobility problems are due to your weight. "The projected weight loss should significantly increase your mobility." Peta Douglass, for the adult care service, said: "When we originally assessed Mrs Hocking, we had to rule out the option of a stairlift. "The company which provided the lift said that it could not guarantee her safety because of her weight." We had considered other options, but Mrs Hocking said she was on a diet and we agreed to contact her in a few weeks when, potentially, she would have lost weight." We will now arrange to see Mrs Hocking, when we will consider whether a stairlift is the best option to safely meet her needs."

posted on ' at oo fat' for a stairlift

Mobility Products for the Disabled


Video showing the Splash Caddie pool hoist in use.

posted on Pool Lifts - Splash Caddie

Please take the time to add your support to the Leonard Cheshire Disability campaign to end disability poverty.

http://www.lcdisability.org/enddisabilitypoverty

Disabled people are twice as likely to live in poverty than non-disabled people. Let's do something about it.

posted on End disability poverty campaign



The PAL (portable aquatic lift) available to buy from Dolphin Mobility in the UK.

posted on PAL Pool Lift Video

The unique floor-to-ceiling design eliminates the need for specialist fixings, alterations or electrical installations.This allows the system to be used permanently, semi-permanently or even temporarily. The Easytrack is the ideal solution when a fixed ceiling track cannot be installed.

posted on Easytrack Hoisting System

A new pool lift manufactured in Italy and available in the UK from Dolphin Lifts.

posted on DiGi Project Swimming Pool Lift

A demonstration of the exchanger system for the V4 ceiling track hoist.

posted on V4 Ceiling Hoist - Exchanger

A demonstration of a ceiling hoist turntable.

posted on Ceiling at rack Hoist at urntable

This video shows the return to charge point feature of a BHM V4 ceiling track hoist.

posted on Ceiling Hoist - Return to charge feature

Promotional video for BHM Medical products.

posted on BHM Medical Video

A quick video demonstrating the Splash pool lift using a sling.

posted on Splash Pool Hoist Sling

Video showing the latest swimming pool lift available from Dolphin Lifts in the UK.

posted on BluOne Swimming Pool Lift

The Times Online website has recently posted an article advising readers on where to find wheelchair accessible spa's. Click on the above title link to view the article or try the links below for information on the sites that they have selected.

Titanic Spa - Huddersfield

The Spa at Pennyhill Park Hotel - Bagshot, Surrey

SenSpa at Careys Manor - New Forest

Thermae Bath Spa - Bath

The article was written by Miranda Allard who runs SpaContacts.com which features a limited number of Spa's invited by her to join.

posted on Spa's with wheelchair access

Dolphin Mobility has announced the addition of a new portable hydraulic pool lift to its product portfolio. The BluOne Pool Lift, manufactured by Digi Project of Italy, is designed to assist anyone who struggles to get in and out of a swimming pool using steps, particularly the disabled, elderly or people recovering from illness or injury.

pool lift
It works by a person sitting on the seat at the front and being pushed to the edge of the pool from a dressing room or elsewhere. The brake is then set and locked in position, the 'down' button pressed and the swimmer lowered into the water.

swimming pool lift
Featuring a total of five different safety levels, the lift can handle up to 110kg and has a down-lift time - with weight - of 23 seconds and an up-lift time - also with weight - of 17 seconds. Power comes from a 24V rechargeable battery. A seat belt is fitted as standard and the lift comes in a standard colour of white, although it is also available in blue.

The BluOne complements Dolphin's existing pool lift range which include the Oxford Dipper and Rehamed's Portable Aquatic Lift (PAL) and Splash Semi Portable Lift.

posted on Blu One Swimming Pool Lift

I came across this interesting discussion on the BBC message board which could be of interest if you are considering buying an 'H Track' or 'X-Y System' ceiling hoist.

posted on H at rack Ceiling Hoists

The Ceiling Hoist users Club website has details of hotels and accomodation that provide ceiling hoists for their disabled guests.

posted on Ceiling Hoist Users Club

Care providers are faced with numerous challenges daily. A patient hoist is often required where there is a lift and transfer need. For example to transfer a patient from a chair to a bed, into a bathtub or onto a toilet. Choosing a system designed with the carer and patient in mind is vital.

There are several hoisting systems available on the market and manufacturers worldwide are designing new hoists which make the lifting and transfer of patients an easier experience.
The question is: How do you choose which product is right for you?

Lift and transfer products fall into 3 main types. Ceiling Lifts (sometimes called Overhead hoists), Floor Lifts (hoists) and Wall Lifts (hoists).

Overhead Hoists

There are two types of overhead hoist, ceiling fixed track and portable track. A ceiling track hoist consists of a piece of rail/track which is permanently attached to the ceiling.

The track can be fitted to timber joists if available or chemical fixed into concrete ceilings. If for any reason the ceiling can't be used it may be possible to fasten the track to the wall.

Less strain as no manual lifting is required
High Lifting height, lift from the floor Uses no floor space, which eliminates storage concerns Versatile - lift, reposition, weigh, toilet
Full room access (curved track or X-Y) and to other rooms - through door header
Only 1 person (caregiver) required
Always available
Lift into bath - no tub modification required
Faster than floor lifts - easy to manoeuvre (carpeting not an issue)
Promotes independence
More comfortable for user
Portable options (lift and tracking)

The following track configurations are available with ceiling hoists

Straight Track X-Y system or H Track
Room to room track system Curves Y junctions Turntables, gates and exchangers
Portable Tracks

Mobile Floor Hoists

Floor hoists have been designed especially with the domestic care environment and patient in mind. Electric and hydraulic units are avilable. The following list includes some of the benefits of having a portable floor hoist.

Can be less expensive than ceiling lifts
High level of user knowledge
Use in common care areas - as back-up to primary ceiling units
No track to install
Lift from the floor is possible
Good for temporary use on holidays or for occasional visitor's

Wall Lift Hoists

The wall lift has been designed especially for home use and features the following benefits.

Inexpensive and versatile
Portable, with the use of additional wall brackets
Easy to install Unique problem solver



As you can see the patient lifting market can be quite confusing owing to the vast array of options and manufacturers. If you are considering the purchase of this type of equipment I would recommend contacting 3 or 4 companies to ensure that you buy the right product for your situation.

A good piece of advice is to speak to an independent adviser who deals with more than one manufacturer. This way the salesman is going to give you an honest appraisal of the best equipment for you and not have to try and persuade to buy the only brand that he can sell.

I would also strongly urge you to meet with an occupational therapist or physiotherapist with expertise in this area as it is vitally important that you get the right solution for the end user.
Christian Dunnage is a director of Dolphin Mobility Ltd, a UK based independent supplier of
stair lifts, patient hoists and mobility products.

posted on Patient Hoists for the disabled

Click the above title to view a video of the Wessex Home Lift. The Wessex Home Lift is the most popular domestic through the floor wheelchair lift that we sell. More details can be found on the Dolphin site under Wheelchair Lifts.

posted on Wessex Home Lift - Wheelchair Lifts

Thousands of older and disabled people will benefit from extra Government funding for home adaptations, such as ramps, stair lifts and easy-access showers. Communities Minister Baroness Andrews today announced the increases in the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) as part of a package of measures designed at helping people live independently in their own homes for longer.

The DFG will increase by £25 million for 2008/09, a significant increase of 20 per cent, taking central Government funding up to £146 million. Central government funding for DFG has already doubled since 1997 from £57 million to £121 million this year.

Around 35,000 older and disabled people already receive DFG support every year. Adaptations funded include improved access to homes, such as widened doors, and basic facilities within a home, like a track and hoist.

The Government also announced plans to strengthen Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs), the locally based not-for-profit organisations that help homeowners and tenants renting private housing repair and maintain their homes.

The new programmes Communities and Local Government announced to support HIAs are:
* A new three-year contract for a national co-ordinating body for HIAs. The body will support the delivery of the forthcoming national strategy for housing in an ageing society, provide ongoing support to HIAs and give a voice for the sector in Government.

* A Future HIA project, to be taken forward by Foundations Home Improvement Agency, to help ensure that HIAs are fit for the future and to see whether they can deliver wider services, such as housing options advice, gardening services, support for people discharged from hospital. Foundations will report to Government next year.

Communities Minister Baroness Andrews said:

"Most people are happy with their current homes and want to remain where they live for as long as possible, but the decisions people make on staying put or moving are increasingly motivated by their health and well-being.

"This package of funding and initiatives will help people make the right choices for them and not feel pressured into moving into sheltered housing or residential care.

"We want to ensure that older people have the best possible advice on their housing options and to help them live independently for as long as possible. Living longer should mean living well, not more years spent in accommodation unsuitable for those with a chronic illness or disability."

HIAs advise people on improvements and adaptations which they may need to their homes and assist them in applying for local authority grants or loans to carry out the required work.

They also help to identify reputable local contractors, helping vulnerable people to avoid 'cowboy' builders. They then oversee the work to ensure that their clients are completely satisfied.

In 2004/05, HIAs in England dealt with 103,000 enquiries where substantial advice was given, and in 38,700 cases, this led to work being carried out by the HIA.

Notes to Editors
1. The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a mandatory entitlement administered by local housing authorities, to help fund the provision of adaptations to enable disabled people to live as comfortably and independently as possible in their homes.
2. Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs) are small, locally based not-for-profit organisations, although some are part of larger housing and support service organisations or local authorities. HIAs receive most of their revenue funding from local government through Supporting People (SP) and general housing funds. Under SP, funding decisions are made by local authorities rather than by central government. This has encouraged HIAs to be more diverse, working to local rather than national agendas. The proportion of the population over 75 years old covered by HIAs has risen from 61% in 1999 to 92% in 2006.
3. Communities and Local Government sponsors a national co-ordinating body for HIAs (called Foundations) to support the work of HIAs, including promoting and raising the profile of HIAs, increasingly with local service commissioners and local area agreements; representing the movement in dealing with government and other stakeholders, and building HIA capacity.
Public Enquiries: 020 7944 4400; News Releases:
http://www.communities.gov.uk
Client ref 230
GNN ref 154843P

posted on Government ramps up funding for home adaptations

This interesting article appeared in The Scotsman and warns of the high pressure sales techniques that many mobility companies now employ.

http://business.scotsman.com/retail.cfm?id=1885022007

I particularly recommend the following advice.

"Sales people may try to make you feel that if you don't buy a particular item now you will lose out; offer you a massive discount on an original high price; try to build up your commitment to the product so that you can't say no later on; use expert opinions to influence your decision or use personal information they gain from you to persuade you to agree you are interested in the product.


"Ask friends and family for recommendations of companies or traders before you buy. Shop around and if it's a large purchase consider getting several quotes.


"Try to have a friend or relative with you for support and to witness any verbal claims that are made. Make sure you get everything in writing, including any special deals or discounts.


"Don't sign on the spot - always read any contract carefully, and if you're being asked to sign a credit agreement, think about getting someone else to check the details before you sign.


"If a product costs over £100, using a credit card may give you extra protection if the goods are faulty or not as described."

posted on High pressure sales advice from at he Scotsman

For an excellent guide to accessibility in London try taking a visit to http://www.visitlondon.com/maps/accessibility. There are details on disabled friendly attractions, theatres, shopping and hotels.

posted on Disabled Access in London

Here is the new Dolphin Mobility Ltd Logo. The new logo has been created to coincide with the launch of our updated company literature.


Please get in touch if you would like copies of any of our company or product literature.

posted on New Dolphin Mobility Logo

I have recently posted some of our mobility product videos onto YouTube. Products featured inculde swimming pool lifts, portable hoist and ceiling hoists.

posted on Mobility Products on You at ube

The EasyTrack FS hoist is completely free-standing and therefore requires no fixings.

Please check out the Dolphin website if you would like more information on this free standing disabled hoist.

posted on Easy at rack Free Standing Hoist

Dolphin currently have over 100 second hand stair lifts in stock. A list of the straight stairlifts that have already been reconditioned can be found on the website. In addition there are approximately 30 secondhand curved rail stairlifts which are also ready to be re-installed.

posted on Reconditioned Second Hand Stairlifts

We have posted our new brochure on the main site. It is available as a pdf download.

Dolphin Mobility Corporate Brochure

posted on New Dolphin Mobility Corporate Brochure

© Dolphin Mobility Ltd., 2008
37 Chertsey Road, Chobham, Surrey, GU24 8PD
Tel: 0800 980 0126   Email: info@dolphinlifts.co.uk
V.A.T Registration 664 5560 17   Company Registration 3130621