Manual Wheelchair In School: Information For Schools And Settings.pdf

Manual Wheelchair Guide for Schools (Revised February 2019)

This guide provides information and advice for schools and settings regarding the use of a manual wheelchair in school environments.

Key Points:

Purpose: A manual wheelchair can serve as an aid to mobility, supportive seating, or a way to conserve energy and prevent pain or complications. Its usage varies greatly depending on individual needs.
Flexibility: Planning for wheelchair use requires consideration of the environment, activities, and the child's stamina. Involve the child, school staff, parents, carers, and therapists in this process.
Maintenance: Gloucestershire Wheelchair Repair Service (0300 421 7170) provides free repairs and maintenance for all NHS wheelchairs.
Safety:
Always use brakes when entering or exiting the chair.
Follow safety guidelines for navigating kerbs using the tipping lever or anti-tippers.
Be mindful of potential risks to carers when pushing the wheelchair, considering terrain and manual handling issues.
Transferring: Develop strategies for safe transfers based on individual needs, including use of transfer boards, turntables, or hoists as advised by therapists.
Wheelchair Courtesy:
Respect the student's independence and autonomy in using their wheelchair.
Learn how to properly fold, dismantle, and store the chair.
Avoid talking over the student’s head or ignoring their presence.
Be mindful of limited visibility from a seated position.
Independence: Plan strategies to promote independence for all curriculum areas, both at school and home.
Accessories: Check with the student and their parents/carers about any useful accessories like trays or cycling gloves.
Posture: Ensure correct seating posture by providing foot supports and regularly checking the child's position. Remind them to sit correctly gently and without nagging.