Newlife has supported Parliamentarians to set up an APPG which has launched an inquiry to shed light on barriers to accessing lifesaving disability equipment. The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Access to Disability Equipment has launched its first inquiry to explore the barriers preventing people with disabilities from accessing the medical equipment they need.

The inquiry aims to support policy discussions and recommendations that improve access to essential community equipment, reduce inequalities, and promote best practice and innovation in commissioning, funding, and service delivery.

It will focus on four key areas:

1. Meeting needs and patient experience: Exploring how effectively current community equipment services support the practical and everyday needs of children and adults with disabilities, including the impact on families and carers.

1. Equity and access: Investigating regional and systemic variations in access to equipment and examining issues of fairness, consistency, and the influence of postcode-based differences.

1. Systemic barriers and delays: Identifying key challenges such as staffing, training, and process inefficiencies and how these hinder timely access to appropriate equipment.

1. Commissioning, integration, and innovation: Evaluating current funding levels and commissioning models, the integration of equipment services with health, social care, and education, and opportunities for improvement.

As part of the inquiry, the APPG has launched a call for evidence, open until 22 August. The APPG is inviting individuals with disabilities, their families, and carers as well as professionals including medical equipment suppliers and healthcare workers to have their say.

To contribute, complete this short survey accessible via this link.

Stephen Morgan, Director of Charitable Services at Newlife, said: “Newlife’s Fight for our Future campaign has highlighted the devastating impact that delays and barriers to equipment have on children with disabilities and their families.

“From missed milestones to family stress and lost independence, the consequences are real and urgent.

“We warmly welcome this first inquiry from the APPG on Access to Disability Equipment. It is inspiring to see parliamentarians taking meaningful action to listen and drive change on an issue that affects so many lives”.

“We’ll be encouraging families to share their stories and experiences with the inquiry, because together, we have the power to help shape a future where every child and adult with a disability gets the equipment they need, when they need it, to thrive.”