ICES buys, provides, maintains, collects and decontaminates community equipment for the residents of Wigan borough. Equipment is loaned for either short periods of time (such as after discharge from hospital) or for longer periods for those who need more permanent help.
What is community equipment?
Community equipment covers a wide range of products, such as pressure relief mattresses, commodes, equipment for daily living such as shower chairs and raised toilet seats. It also includes:
- Minor adaptations, such as grab rails, and stair rails
- Equipment for people with complex needs, such as mobile hoists
Who is eligible for equipment?
We undertake a health or social care assessment to find out if someone is eligible to receive community equipment. The assessment is based on a person's individual needs. Assessments are undertaken by an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or district nurse.
You are eligible for an assessment if:
- You are a resident of Wigan borough
- You are permanently or substantially disabled
- Your disability significantly affects your ability to carry out essential tasks of daily living at home, or means your carer is not able to provide the help you need.
Unfortunately the service does not accept referrals directly from the public.
What happens next?
If you are assessed as being eligible for community equipment, ICES will arrange delivery of the equipment, and can arrange collection if/when the equipment is no longer required.
How much does it cost?
All equipment is free if you have been assessed as needing it by an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or district nurse.
Further information
- To request an assessment of your needs, contact the Central Duty Team.
- For more information about the equipment available, contact ICES on the number below.
