Case studies
Small handling equipment
Included in this section is small handling equipment for children and young people with disabilities - handling belts, rota/turning cushions, one-way glides and slide sheets.1
These items can enable your child to turn or slide up and down their bed or chair more easily or to transfer from one place to another (e.g. from bed to wheelchair) - either with or without assistance.2
Handling belts (also known as transfer belts, pictured above) may be worn by your child to provide a grip for parents, carers or therapists during sliding transfers or walking practice.1
One way glides are made of a length of material that has been stitched to form a continuous roller. The inside of the glide is made of a material that will easily slide one way, but cannot slide the other way. They are placed underneath your child either in bed or in their chair, and enable them to slide (or be slid) backwards into a stable position but not to slide forwards again.1
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Help and advice
Before choosing moving and handling equipment you need to consider all of the pros and cons and consider other possible options. Sometimes there are simpler solutions to overcome moving and handling difficulties. For example - changing the daily routine, rearranging furniture or being trained in a safe transfer technique.2
This is why it is important to have a manual handling assessment (usually with your child's occupational therapist or physiotherapist) so that every moving and handling situation is reviewed and safe solutions are found. This will also ensure that the type of equipment being recommended will meet your child's current and future functional needs.2-3
Some of the equipment listed here may be provided by your local authority, depending on their eligibility criteria. If your child is eligible, the equipment will be provided on a long-term loan basis. Alternatively, you may be eligible for a direct payment from your local authority to purchase something suitable.
You may also like to view the range of small moving and handling equipment we have listed in the main Living made easy site. These items are not designed for children, but some may be appropriate for your child (under guidance of your child's therapist).
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