NHS target for children needing wheelchairs missed

New analysis of figures has revealed that thousands of disabled children who need a wheelchair are waiting more than four months from the time of their referral to the equipment being delivered.

The Health Service Journal, who published the figures, show that the NHS standard for children to receive a wheelchair within 18 weeks from the time of referral was missed for more than 5,100 children in 2017/18. This means that only 82 per cent of eligible children are receiving their wheelchairs on time, compared with the target of 92 per cent. NHS England has set a more ambitious target of 100 per cent by the end of 2018-19.

The statistics also revealed that West Suffolk CCG was one of the worst performers, meeting the target in only 35 per cent of cases last year.

Speaking to the HSJ, Dave Bracher, campaigns manager at the Spinal Injuries Association, said: “These alarming statistics show a continued widespread postcode lottery that is affecting some of the most vulnerable disabled children in society, including those with spinal cord injuries. These delays inevitably affect a child’s rehabilitation and daily life – such as attending school, contributing to family and being with friends, and therefore has significant long-term consequences.”