Equipment - known as assistive technology - can range from simple day / night clocks and automatic lights to sensors and fingerprint door locks.

They are 'standalone' items - not linked to a call centre which raises the alarm when something goes wrong. If you would like to look at sensors or pendant alarms that are linked to a call centre then please see the Telecare pendant alarm service for more information.

How equipment can help

Some examples can include:

• light sensors which detect movement can light your way if you need to get up during the night to visit the bathroom
• memory aids can help to remind you of a range of routines from medication to taking your house keys before you go out.
• bed / chair and door sensors can alert carers when someone is getting up or leaving the house.

How you can get this equipment

We have a dedicated occupational therapist who offers specialist advice, information and assessments. If you would like to be assessed for this equipment, please contact Oxfordshire County Council on 0845 050 7666 or complete the online  general enquiry form.

Other ways of getting equipment and advice

Guideposts Trust Independent Living Centre

The Independent Living Centre, in partnership with Oxfordshire County Council, provides information on products and organisations to assist people with disabilities and older people to increase and maintain their independence. This free service is available to anyone living in Oxfordshire.

The Witney-based centre includes a showroom with equipment for the kitchen, lounge, bedroom and bathroom and also has some mobility equipment. The centre is impartial and does not sell equipment but offers you an opportunity  to 'try before you buy'.

It can provide information on:

• assessments for services or equipment from Oxfordshire County Council
• general and specific equipment and product information
• new technology to support you to stay in your own home
• equipment hire or purchase
• two occupational therapists are available for personal and confidential consultations.

The centre is at Northfield Farm Lane, Madley Park ,Witney, Oxon, OX28 1UD. Google map directions.

Opening hours and booking

Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm.

Occupational therapists are available from Monday to Friday,  9am - 4pm. To try equipment you need to book an appointment. Information line: 01993 899985 (Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm)

Web: www.guidepostsilc.org.uk

Millbrook Healthcare

Millbrook Healthcare Ltd supplies rehabilitation, community care and homecare equipment in the UK and Ireland.

Tel: 0845 2232484
Email: oxfordshirecontactus@millbrookhealthcare.co.uk

Red Cross

The Red Cross provides short-term loan of wheelchairs and other equipment in an emergency. Their main centre is:

Red Cross House
Colwell Drive
Abingdon
Oxon
OX14 1AU

Tel: 01235 225597

Disabled Living Foundation

The Disabled Living Foundation offers factsheets and general advice on equipment. It has also created a website offering practical advice on daily living. 

Being assessed privately

If you wish to be assessed privately then you should contact the College of Occupational Therapists Specialist Section Independent Practice (COTSS-IP).

They have a register of occupational therapists who work in private practice. COTSS-IP will provide details of occupational therapists who are state registered by the Health Professions Council and are members of COTSS-IP. You can contact them on 0800 389 4873.

You should check that any private occupational therapist you are considering working with is covered by professional indemnity insurance to carry out their business. There will be a charge for their services.

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