PEOPLE who need a wheelchair for a short time should be provided for on the NHS according to a MSP.

Jackie Baillie, Labour MSP is launching a Bill that would place a duty on the health service to provide wheelchairs for people with a mobility issue for up to six months.

Ms Baillie said that currently the NHS rules are that to qualify for a wheelchair the need must be permanent.

The MSP said many people are in need of assistance but only for a limited time and should have the same access to equipment.

She is launching a consultation on legislation in Glasgow with the British Red Cross who are backing her proposal.

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Ms Baillie said: “There is no duty on the NHS, or any other public body, to provide short-term wheelchairs to anyone with a mobility problem that is expected to last for less than 6 months.

“It means that a patient well enough to be discharged from hospital but with a mobility problem that would require access to a wheelchair for a short period of time, simply wouldn’t get one. This leaves patients either privately buying a wheelchair or relying on a charity providing one.

“Not being able to access a wheelchair when you have a clear short-term mobility need can lead to a delay in discharge from hospital; prolong your rehabilitation; slow down your reablement and have a negative impact on your emotional wellbeing, your social connections and your financial situation.”

The British Red Cross said a wheelchair can help ensure a faster recovery from many illnesses and conditions.

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Fiona McLeod Policy Officer, said: “Through our services, we see every day the significant difference that accessing a wheelchair can have.

“Not only can it help people get out and about and maintain some sense of their life, but it can help them to get to work, reduce their dependency on their family and friends, and sometimes speed up their recovery time.”

Other health charities also support the move.

Morna Simpkins, director of MS Society Scotland, said: “We welcome this proposal which could have a positive impact for many of the 11,000 people in Scotland living with MS.

“Issues with mobility can affect people’s independence, confidence, employment and social lives so ensuring access to short-term wheelchairs for those who need it is crucial.”

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