CosySafe Cot from Kinderkey: A Secure Haven Tailored to Individual Needs
In the realm of caregiving and healthcare, ensuring the safety and comfort of individuals with extra care needs is paramount. The Kinderkey CosySafe Cot emerges as a beacon of reliability, offering a perfect solution for parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike. At the heart of the CosySafe Cot is its commitment to customisation. Every cot is meticulously crafted to suit the unique needs of each client. The solid wooden frame and doors present a myriad of options, allowing clients to choose between wooden rails, Perspex panels, or a combination of both. The outward opening doors, situated on one or both sides of the cot, facilitate easy access, catering to the convenience of both caregivers and individuals. One notable feature of the CosySafe Cot is its adaptability in height. Clients can select the height of the sides based on specific requirements, with the capability to construct cots up to 1100mm. For those in need of an even taller solution, the CosySafe Plus steps in, offering the flexibility to be tailored to any height the room can accommodate, ensuring a seamless integration into any environment. The mattress platform is designed with a four-part profiling system, providing flexibility and comfort tailored to individual needs. Available in a range of lengths and widths, this thoughtful design ensures that everyone, irrespective of their unique requirements, can find a perfect fit. The cot’s height adjustability and Trendelenburg tilt further enhance ease of care, acknowledging the practical aspects of daily use. For an added layer of comfort, the CosySafe Cot offers optional padding. Crafted from high-quality, durable materials, this padding ensures resilience against the wear and tear of everyday use. The use of crib 5 material not only makes it waterproof but also antimicrobial, underlining the commitment to maintaining a hygienic and safe environment. Cleaning and maintenance are made hassle-free, aligning with the demands of busy caregivers. Adding a touch of personalisation, Kinderkey provides a spectrum of beautiful colors and patterns for clients to choose from. This wide range of options ensures that the cot can be seamlessly integrated into any space, allowing for a customised touch that suits individual styles. Understanding the unique needs of each client is at the forefront of Kinderkey’s approach. Experienced product technicians are available to assist through onsite assessments or online meetings. This ensures that every detail is considered, and all available options are discussed to create a cot bed that perfectly aligns with the client’s or caregiver’s requirements. In conclusion, the Kinderkey CosySafe Cot emerges not only as a secure and adaptable solution for individuals with extra care needs but also as a testament to the brand’s dedication to customisation, safety, and comfort. For those seeking a reliable partner in caregiving, Kinderkey stands ready to showcase their range of beds and cots. Call today to arrange a viewing at 01978820714 or visit their website. You can view Kinderkey’s “Safe Sleeping Solutions” magazine right here, or find it on our website under the digital Ucan2 magazines section. To stay up-to-date with all the latest products, services, news and advice regarding accessibility and independent living, subscribe to Ucan2 magazine for free and receive all the latest updates straight to your inbox!
smart UK introduces #1 Pro+ to the Motability scheme
smart UK has announced that the award-winning #1 Pro+ is now available to order on the Motability Scheme, opening the door for customers.
London Marathon 2024 offers equal prize money for wheelchair and able-bodied athletes
The London Marathon is the world’s first marathon to offer equal prize money for its wheelchair and able-bodied races, making it a historic moment for disability sports. The London Marathon wheelchair races were already the richest in the world, but a further increase of $54,500 (£43,000) to the prize money means the total prize pot stands at $308,000 (£243,000), creating parity with able-bodied athletes. This means all winners in the elite races of the 2024 London Marathon will receive $55,000 (£43,500), with the runner-up earning $30,000 (£24,000) and third-place $22,500 (£18,000). Hugh Brasher, event director of the London Marathon, said: “We are proud of our history in championing participants with disabilities, from introducing our first wheelchair race in 1983 to hosting the IPC World Championships on multiple occasions and providing a pathway from the Mini London Marathon to the London Marathon and beyond for Paralympic legends such as David Weir. “We are delighted to continue our commitment to disability sport with this landmark move that ensures the prize money available to our elite wheelchair athletes is the same as for those in the able-bodied elite races. “We have made great strides in recent years towards our ambition to make the London Marathon the most diverse and equitable marathon in the world and this is another important step towards achieving that goal.” Wheelchair racing legend David Weir will be racing his 25th consecutive London Marathon in 2024. The eight-time winner says the move to creating parity in the prize pots is something he hopes other events can follow. Weir said: “It’s a very exciting year for me and for wheelchair racing, again London Marathon has set the bar for parity across the racing divisions. This is a huge benchmark for disability sport and I hope other races and sporting bodies can take note.” The 2024 London Marathon takes place on Sunday April 21. The men and women’s elite fields will be announced on Monday February 26. Find out more here: https://www.tcslondonmarathon.com/ Keep up-to-date on all the latest news regarding disabilities and independent living with Ucan2 Magazine, subscribe today and never miss an update.
Blind Broadcaster Highlights Support Available During Power Cuts With Priority Services Register
Blind broadcaster Lucy Edwards urges people needing priority support during a power cut to sign up to the Priority Services Register (PSR)
Be part of The World Triathalon Para Series in Swansea this summer
The world’s best para triathletes are heading to Swansea this summer for The World Triathalon Para Series and there are a host of ways for people of all ages and abilities to join in the fun and swim, bike, and run alongside these amazing athletes. This year’s event sees the biggest opportunity to take part in multi-sport in the event’s three-year history. The World Triathlon Para Series returns to South Wales on 22 June, with racing taking place just months before this summer’s Paralympic Games in Paris. Whilst the elite athletes will be battling it out for vital qualification points for the Games, organisers have announced a range of events and races taking place at the Prince of Wales Dock. Kids can enter the aquathlon (swim, run) and take part in either a timed race or have a go at a multi-sport at their own pace without having to think about a time. The four options for junior participants: All four options are open to participants with and without disabilities. sign up here: https://www.britishtriathlon.org/events/World-Triathlon-Para-Series-Swansea_15378 As with the previous events, 2024 will also provide people aged 15+ with a disability the opportunity to complete a swim, bike, run across much the same course as the elites through the British Paratri Super Series. The Super Series contains two strands, one for anyone aged 15+ with a paratriathlon classification, giving them the chance to gain points for the national series. The second strand is for disabled participants aged 15+ without a paratriathlon classification, providing an entry point into swim, bike, run and paratriathlon. This strand is also open for those whose impairment lays outside the scope of classification, such as participants with intellectual impairments. All events and races on the day will lead participants to the same finish line, with the elite finish area set to welcome Paralympic medallists and first-timers alike. You can find out more about the opportunities to take part on Saturday 22 June below and you can sign up here: https://www.britishtriathlon.org/events/World-Triathlon-Para-Series-Swansea_15378. Ruth Daniels, British Triathlon CEO, said: “This is the largest participation offer we’ve had at World Triathlon Para Series Swansea and for it to come in a Paralympic and Olympic year is really special. “This summer’s events in Paris will be such a motivator to get involved in sport, and I’m delighted that we can get ahead of that and provide these opportunities to experience swim, bike, run on 22 June. “Showcasing and growing paratriathlon and the elite athletes we have here in Great Britain is a major driver behind this event, and I’m really excited that we can work with our partners at Swansea City Council and the Welsh Government to once again bring this event to Swansea.” Dawn Bowden, Deputy Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, said: “Welsh Government support for the third-year running will enable this fantastic event to bring an even higher level of inclusion and participation across this exciting sport. “This reaffirms our commitment to the development of disability sport and providing a further platform to promote sporting opportunities for disabled people. I’m delighted to be able to welcome organisers, participants and spectators back to Wales.” Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s cabinet member for investment, regeneration, events and tourism, said: “There are many opportunities to take part in the 2024 World Triathlon Para Series, Swansea’s third staging of the event. We look forward to welcoming thousands of athletes and supporters. “We’re a city with a passion for sport and with a glorious natural environment for everybody to enjoy – and we’re excited that local people will be inspired to enjoy sport on the weekend of June 22-23. “The World Triathlon Para Series is a major boost to our local economy and we’ll make sure, once again, that local residents, businesses and organisations are fully informed about opportunities and road changes for the event’s big weekend. “It’ll be another big summer of events for Swansea next year as the Ironman 70.3 Swansea is due to take place on July 14, the Wales Airshow is due to take place on July 6-7 and there are big-name concerts arranged for Singleton Park. There’ll be more big announcements to follow.”
Geberit AquaClean Case Study: Billie Orfanelli Turner
Billie Turner from Manchester has Cerebral palsy, a motor disability leaving her wheelchair bound and relying on her parents. The installation of a shower toilet, AquaClean, in her home has returned Billie’s privacy and dignity, which her mother says has given her a whole new independence. The AquaClean from Geberit has been a vital part of independent living for a lot of people like Billie. Billie’s Story 22-year-old Billie lives with her parents in Greater Manchester and has a motor condition which affects her ability to move and maintain balance and posture. Billie spends all day in a wheelchair which can leave her feeling uncomfortable and clammy. Before the AquaClean Billie’s parents would have to clean and dry her, leaving her without privacy and having a negative impact on her sense of wellbeing and dignity. Billie’s parents had begun installing a wet room to increase her independence when Billie’s friend, who is also disabled recommended an AquaClean. Billie’s Occupational Therapist further recommended the installation of a shower toilet, knowing that this would enable Billie to clean herself independently after going to the toilet and give her wellbeing a boost. The Solution Following the recommendation of the Occupational Therapist, Billie’s parents, although dubious at first, installed the shower toilet. Since it’s installation alongside the fitting of the wet room in their home, they have seen a dramatic change in their daughter’s mood. Stylish and innovative, the Geberit AquaClean Mera Care toilet features an oscillating spray arm that cleans at the touch of a button with a jet of warm water and a warm air dryer, offering Billie ease of cleaning after using the toilet Geberit AquaClean Mera Care In addition to an oscillating spray and warm air dryer, the Geberit AquaClean Mera Care toilet boasts a host of additional features to aid personal hygiene and help users like Billie to live a more independent life, including an automatic flush function via user detection, remote control, programmable user profiles for multiple users, and a continuous flow heater for constant warm water. Geberit has taken every ounce of its 150 years of experience in helping to understand the wants and needs of its customers and put that into creating a product that can make a guaranteed difference to the way customers live day in day out. Everything is designed with comfort and convenience in mind, and the Geberit development team is constantly evolving and enhancing every aspect of the product to ensure it meets the needs of the customer. Billie’s mother, Kim says: “It’s such a relief that there is no longer a struggle, and she doesn’t have to rely on others to be hygienic, she feels fresh all the time now.” The Future Since the installation of the Geberit Mera Care toilet Billie is able to rely less on her parents and enjoy some privacy and independence. This has boosted her sense of wellbeing and the change in her emotions can be seen by everyone around her. Billie’s mother stated: “Billies mood has changed 100 percent. She feels so much better in herself now that she has privacy and it’s given her a whole new independence, it’s amazing. The toilet has made a big difference in my daughter’s life and to her mood, its brilliant. Thank you for having such a great toilet, thank you so much.” More Details Want to learn more about the shower toilet, AquaClean from Geberit? Check out other case studies such as the AbleStay story here and see how this solution to independent living has improved the lives of others. Don’t forget to subscribe to Ucan2 Magazine and stay up-to-date on all the latest news and stories regarding independent living and accessibility.
Access BDD Accelerates Growth with Strategic Team Expansion
Access BDD, a global leader in mobility and accessibility solutions, announces a significant stride in its expansion into the US and Canadian stairlift market by adding four experienced professionals to its team. This move underscores the company’s commitment to growth and aims to strengthen its presence in North America. New Team Members Fuel at Access BDD Growth with Key Regional Focus Access BDD welcomes Kaylee Buscher as the Business Development Manager for the Northeast region. With a rich background in sales and marketing within the mobility sector, Kaylee’s experience in the dealer market is poised to enrich Access BDD’s client relationships and market penetration. John Biddle joins the Access BDD team as the Business Development Manager for the Southeast region. John’s extensive industry knowledge and sales experience, particularly in direct-to-consumer stairlift sales, positions him as an invaluable asset to the team. Callum Boyd re-joins Access BDD as Business Development Manager for the West Coast. His previous tenure with Access BDD in France and recent experience in the high-rise elevator industry provide a unique perspective that will drive growth. Additionally, Juan Rivera joins as a Technical Manager for the West Coast. His expertise in technical service in the direct sales stairlift market strengthens Access BDD’s commitment to exceptional product support and customer service. Strategic Expansion Highlights Ambitious Growth for Access BDD This expansion, increasing the US-based team to six, reflects Access BDD’s ambitious growth plans. It aims to extend its reach, reinforcing support for existing customers and developing relationships with top industry players who share its ambitions and values. The presence of three additional sales professionals and a further technical expert is a significant step towards achieving these objectives. Melissa Davies, Head of Business Development at Access BDD, commented, “The expansion of our team in the US is a strategic move to deepen our market penetration and bring our innovative solutions closer to our customers. Kaylee, John, Callum, and Juan are key to our growth trajectory, and their expertise and energy will be instrumental in our journey ahead.” Managing Director Andrew Warbrick added, “This expansion is more than just adding numbers to our team. It’s about infusing new energy, perspectives, and expertise to achieve our goal of being the preferred stairlift solutions provider in the US and Canada. We are excited about the future and what this team will accomplish.” Team Unites at TK Elevator Test Tower in Atlanta The new team members recently convened for a three-day intensive training and strategy session at the TK Elevator Test Tower in Battery Atlanta. This event focused on product training, team building, and strategic planning for the year ahead, ensuring that the team is fully equipped to support our dealers and introduce the Flow X and HomeGlide stairlifts to new markets. To find out more about Access BDD, visit their website here: www.accessbdd.com.
National Autistic Society responds to Government school attendance campaign –
The National Autistic Society responds to the Government’s new campaign about school attendance, with the view that this campaign has completely missed the mark and fails to take into account the struggles which many autistic children and young people face in the classroom. Tim Nicholls, Head of Influencing and Research at the National Autistic Society, said: “This campaign completely misses the mark and fails to address the huge barriers autistic children and young people face every day in the classroom. School shouldn’t be a tick box exercise in attendance. It should be about ensuring all children get the support they need to be able to thrive from well-trained staff who understand their needs. “We know there’s a high rate of school absence for autistic children. Our research shows that only a quarter (26%) of the more than 200,000 autistic pupils in England are happy at school. But this is no surprise when only 53% of autistic young people said they have someone to go to if there is a problem at school, and almost three in four parents (74%) say their child’s school doesn’t meet their needs. “Instead of shaming parents and children for low attendance at school, the Government should prioritise urgent reform of the education system. We won’t accept a world where autistic children miss out on an education, and families are left on the brink of crisis.” Image courtesy of Adobe Stock Images
Join a Spectrum Colour Walk to support National Autistic Society
The National Autistic Society is inviting people to join a Spectrum Colour Walk and raise vital funds to support autistic people and their families during World Autism Acceptance Week 2024. World Autism Acceptance Week will take place from Tuesday 2 April to Monday 8 April 2024. The theme of colour returns for this year, and a new location has been added to the line-up of Spectrum Colour Walk events: The Spectrum Colour Walks start at 2pm on Saturday 6 April in each location. The courses are 5km, suitable for all ages and abilities, and take place in a calm, inclusive green space. All money raised during World Autism Acceptance Week will go towards the National Autistic Society’s aim to transform lives and change attitudes to help create a society that works for autistic people. World Autism Acceptance Week is the biggest event in the charity’s year and for 2024 it is highlighting four key areas for autistic people and their families: Education, Employment, Mental Health and Diagnosis. As well as signing up for a Spectrum Colour Walk, there are many other ways to get fundraising for this year’s World Autism Acceptance Week, including: For more inspiration, head to our World Autism Acceptance Week resources page to download and print useful information, as well as fun and colourful branded items to wear during fundraising events. Make sure to use World #AutismAcceptanceWeekto share your event on social media. Caroline Stevens, Chief Executive of the National Autistic Society, said: “World Autism Acceptance Week is the most important event in our charity’s year because it’s a chance to get society talking about autism. “It’s vital that autistic people and their families are understood, supported and accepted in their communities, schools and workplaces. Better understanding of autism across society could transform hundreds of thousands of lives. “We want to encourage everyone to take part in World Autism Acceptance Week by joining one of our Spectrum Colour Walks or by fundraising your own way. Whatever you do, get colourful and together we can make every step count to create a society that works for autistic people.” For more information, visit our website: www.autism.org.uk.