20 November 2006

The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign vigorously supports the BDF Newlife campaign to drastically improve the provision of equipment for disabled children, following the publication of Newlife report, “It’s Not Too Much To Ask”.

Feedback from members of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign confirms that provision of all types of essential equipment, especially wheelchairs, is very poor in many areas of the UK. Many families are forced to seek private funding from charities, such as the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, to enable their children to lead a full and independent life.

Robert Meadowcroft, Director of Policy and Operations, said:
“It’s not good enough to say the provision of equipment for disabled children is simply a “difficult and emotive area”, which is how it’s been described by as described by the NHS Confederation. At the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign we are constantly in touch with families who have to battle with the NHS for even the most basic equipment for their children.  Although the Department of Health HDH hopes to publish details of improved services from Autumn 2007, our concern is that, in the meantime, many children will continue to have a poorer quality of life and, in some cases, be left immobile, until the NHS recognises that increased support and funding in this area is vital.”

Read about BDF Newlife's report: BDF Newlife report launch