Home equipment prescription
We want people to live good lives and stay independent for as long as possible.
If you need equipment to help you at home, you may be able to choose where you get it from and the type of equipment that works best for you.
This gives you more choice and control, helping you continue doing the things that matter to you.
Why equipment can help
The right equipment can help you:
stay safe at home
do more things for yourself
remain independent
stay connected to family, friends and your community
continue doing the things that matter to you
How this works
A health or social care worker will talk to you about your needs.
If equipment could help you, we may give you an equipment prescription.
You, a family member or a friend can use the prescription at a participating shop.
You can choose from a range of approved equipment.
If you would like a different model or extra features, you may be able to pay the extra cost.
How to upgrade your equipment
If you choose to upgrade a piece of equipment, you will simply pay the approved retailer.
If you choose a more expensive item, you only pay the extra cost.
Getting your equipment delivered
You can usually collect your equipment from a participating shop.
If you cannot get to a shop and nobody can collect it for you, delivery may be available. The person supporting your assessment will discuss this with you.
You may also be able to arrange delivery directly with the shop. There may be an extra charge.
Help with fitting your equipment
A family member, friend or carer can collect and fit some equipment for you.
The shop will provide instructions and explain how to use the equipment safely.
If professional installation is needed, this can often be arranged through the equipment supplier.
Getting equipment installed in your home
Many accredited retailers provide this service.
If you are a resident of Blackburn and Darwen, the items and installation will be provided by the local council. You can contact them on 01254 269220.
If you have arranged for equipment to be installed, the supplier will contact you to arrange a suitable day and time.
Equipment should continue working properly for at least 12 months after installation.
Using the equipment
The shop will show you how to use the equipment. If the equipment needs fitting into your home the shop will give instructions on how to do this.
Some equipment will include a fitting service provided by the accredited retailer.
Reporting faulty equipment
Any faults with pieces of equipment you can contact the retailer you received it from.
The accredited retailer is responsible for replacing faulty items.
If your needs change
If your equipment no longer meets your needs, or it becomes worn out, contact us for another assessment on 0300 123 6720.
It's a good idea to check your equipment regularly to make sure it is safe and working properly.
When you no longer need the equipment
Small items provided through the prescription scheme belong to you.
When you no longer need them, you can:
take them to a recycling centre
arrange a council collection
dispose of smaller items through your normal household waste service
donate suitable items to a charity
Contact the organisation first to check whether they can accept the equipment.
Returning large equipment
Larger items, such as hoists and bath lifts, are usually loaned to you rather than provided through an equipment prescription.
If you no longer need this equipment, it should be returned to the provider. Information about returning the equipment will be provided when it is supplied.
Contact information
Lancashire County Council
Customer Service Centre
Telephone : 0300 123 6720
How we use your information
To arrange your equipment, we may need to share information about you with organisations involved in providing the service.
This may include:
your name
address
contact details
information about your support needs
We only share information that is needed to help provide the right equipment and support.
Accredited retailers in Central Lancashire
Please contact retailers to clarify opening times.