« Previous | Contents | Next »
Listen
3 PURPOSE OF THE GUIDANCE
Aims of revised guidance
This guidance covers the responsibilities of NHS Scotland and local authorities for providing equipment and adaptations and replaces all previous guidance on this issue. The updated guidance will be issued with immediate effect. [final version only]
13. The guidance aims to update and clarify existing guidance, taking into account legislative and policy changes in care provision since original guidance was issued in 1976 ( NHS Circular 1976 ( GEN) 90).
14. The guidance will enable professionals, users and carers to better understand local health and social care partnerships responsibilities, and to create a more consistent approach to the provision of equipment and adaptations across Scotland.
15. The overall aims of the guidance are to:
- Place the user, and carer, at the centre of provision.
- Promote a consistent approach to the assessment for, and provision of, equipment and adaptations.
- Ensure that users and carers have access to up to date and relevant information on equipment and adaptations.
- Promote good practice and partnership working in relation to equipment and adaptation provision.
What are equipment and adaptations?
16. Equipment and Adaptations is a collective term for a broad range of products and changes to the fabric of a building that enable people of all ages to carry out ordinary activities of daily life that have been affected by impairment, ill health, traumatic injury, or the effects of ageing. It includes assistive technology but not anything that is invasive to the body.
Who may need them?
17. Any individual of any age, with any illness or disability may benefit from some type of equipment, or adaptation, within their community settings to improve their quality of life. This could be provided on a short or long term basis depending on the persons assessed needs. For example a piece of equipment may only be needed over a short period of time to enable assessment or rehabilitation, or may be required over many years.
18. It should also be recognised that there will be a small number of users with different types of equipment needs, for example those with sensory impairment.
« Previous | Contents | Next »