People who use a wheelchair urged to share experiences of Derbyshire service

Image credit: Healthwatch Derbyshire

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Healthwatch Derbyshire is urging wheelchair users and their carers to share their experiences with the local wheelchair services now managed by Blatchford Wheelchair Services since April 2025. This follows a 2024 report on the service, and the new survey aims to assess current satisfaction and areas needing improvement. The feedback will be shared with the NHS and Blatchford to help enhance the service.

Press Release

Derby. UK. May 13, 2026

Healthwatch Derbyshire is calling on people who use wheelchairs and their carers to share their experiences of local wheelchair services, following a change in provider.

In February 2024, the organisation published a report highlighting the experiences of people using wheelchair services across the county. Since April 1, 2025, the service has been delivered by Blatchford Wheelchair Services in Derby,

Healthwatch Derbyshire is now carrying out a new survey to understand how people are finding the service under the new provider.

The survey asks about:

  • How well people are being kept informed
  • Their experience of appointments
  • Overall satisfaction with the service

The survey takes just five to eight minutes to complete, and responses will be shared with the NHS and Blatchford to highlight what is working well and where improvements may be needed.

Chief Executive of Healthwatch Derbyshire, Helen Henderson, said: “In 2024, we heard clearly from people who use wheelchairs and carers, about what was working well and where improvements were needed. Those experiences formed our report and were shared directly with decision-makers.

“Now that there is a new provider delivering the service, it’s important that we listen again. Services don’t stand still, and neither should the conversation.

“By sharing your recent experiences, you’re helping us build on our previous work and make sure wheelchair services in Derbyshire continue to improve for the people who rely on them every day.”

The survey is available at: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/wheelchair-survey_/

The previous Wheelchair Services Report 2024 can be here:
https://www.healthwatchderbyshire.co.uk/reports-and-publications/wheelchair-report-2024

Notes to editors

About Healthwatch Derbyshire Healthwatch Derbyshire acts as the independent voice of the public on health and social care matters. We gather and represent the views of local people, ensuring they are heard by decision-makers to improve services for everyone.

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