Wheelchair Services
Wheelchair service update
NHS Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board commissions and manages the contract for the Derbyshire Wheelchair service.
There have been waits for wheelchair services and we have been working to reduce these waits.
We understand how essential these services are to your mobility and independence, and we sincerely apologise for any delay you may be experiencing.
Since 1 April 2025 Blatchford has been the provider of our wheelchair service. They are responsible for assessments, wheelchair provision, repairs, and ongoing support. Blatchford took over the services from AJM Healthcare.
Blatchford has worked closely with us on a review of who was waiting for a wheelchair and how any waiting times could be reduced and access improved.
So far, almost half the people who were waiting have received a wheelchair since April and we are continuing to work with Blatchford’s to improve waiting times for patients.
If you are waiting to hear from us, please read our FAQs about the process, which can be found below.
We appreciate how important it is for people to receive timely support, and alongside Blatchford we are jointly committed to making the improvements needed to reduce waiting times and enhance patient experience.
Derbyshire Wheelchair Service – Frequently asked questions
The information below has been pulled together to help answer some of the questions people have been asking.
Where is my equipment?
We know that some people had an appointment with AJ Mobility, and it was found that equipment was needed, and it was ordered.
This equipment should have been passed on to Blatchford on the 1st of April 2025. We are sorry that there have been delays in the transfer of this equipment.
If you are waiting you will be contacted by Blatchford soon who will explain the next steps.
Why is my equipment not available?
Blatchford are working through information and equipment they have received from A J Mobility.
Equipment not received by Blatchford on 1st April 2025 will need to be ordered. Some people may need to be reassessed to make sure needs are met. This means that there may be delays in receiving their equipment. We are working hard with Blatchford to get things sorted.
Blatchford will be contacting those waiting soon to discuss next steps.
When will I get an appointment for an initial assessment or review?
Each person is reviewed based on clinical need. An appointment will be offered as soon as possible.
We are sorry that there are delays. Work is ongoing to improve getting an appointment.
What do I do if my needs have changed?
If you feel that your needs have changed since your assessment with AJ Mobility, please contact Blatchford.
What is being done to reduce waiting times?
Blatchford have introduced a quicker assessment service. This should improve waiting times for assessments and equipment.
Blatchford are reviewing all patients to learn how to improve waiting times.
More staff have been deployed to support this work.
How are you prioritising those people who need equipment and are waiting?
We are making progress and have reduced the number of people waiting by just under half. We always aim to prioritise those with the highest clinical needs.
Extra clinics have been added and increased capacity for complex seating to help speed things up. Blatchford and the Integrated Care Board (ICB) are working together on more ways to reduce waiting times.
I think my case is urgent, but the service hasn’t acted yet – why?
When we review requests, we look at the most up to date clinical information. Unfortunately, sometimes what feels urgent to you may not meet the clinical criteria for urgent action at that time. If your situation changes, please let us know so we can review your case again.
If I am on the waiting list, what happens when it is my turn?
A member of Blatchford’s clinical team will contact you. They will check your needs and see if anything has changed since you were referred or last assessed. Then they will work with you to find the most appropriate equipment.
I don’t think I can come to clinic – what can I do?
If you can’t come to the clinic, Blatchford’s could offer other options like a phone call or an online appointment. Please tell them when you contact the service so they can find the best way to help you. Coming to the clinic is important because they have a large range of wheelchairs there. Blatchford’s have been able to reduce the waiting times for wheelchairs by increasing the number of appointments which take place at the wheelchair centre. If you need help with transport you can call EMAS (the patient transport service for the county) on 0300 300 3434 or email on NEPTSenquiries@EMAS.nhs.uk