MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY CAMPAIGN REPORT ON THE CASE FOR EFFECTIVE WHEELCHAIR SERVICES

Early day motion 257, tabled 16 June 2010 by David Anderson (Labour). Signed by 42 members.

That this House welcomes the publication of a new report by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign on the provision of powered wheelchairs; recognises that specialist wheelchairs can be vital for people with neuromuscular conditions as they can improve quality of life, alleviate pain and slow the progression of the condition; notes that too many children and adults with muscle disease in England are waiting years to receive wheelchairs; is concerned that there is considerable variation across the country in waiting times for wheelchairs, resulting in a postcode lottery for families affected by muscle disease; further notes that many people with muscular dystrophy are denied the most appropriate wheelchairs or are forced to pay for the equipment out of their own pocket; calls on the Government to ensure a ring-fenced budget for electric wheelchairs; urges the Government to establish a national strategy for wheelchairs with a uniform eligibility criteria and a clear, comprehensive target for waiting times; and commends the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign for bringing this critical issue to the attention of the House.

Signatures by party: Labour 22, DUP 7, Liberal Democrat 6, Conservative 3, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, Independent 1.