For therapy, training, advice and support call us on 01684 576795 or email:admin@arcos.org.uk
Equipment Loan Services
ARCOS maintains an equipment library which provides a unique service for assessment and practise in using alternative technologies. The library makes the latest ‘high tech’ equipment available for free trial and rental, enabling clients to fully explore the capability and suitability of equipment before purchasing.
Resources include devices for alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) and alternative input devices for computers for those unable to use conventional keyboards and mice.
The equipment library is a tremendous asset, allowing people to benefit from the most recent technology.
ARCOS also stocks a variety of specialist equipment for eating and drinking which can be bought from the ARCOS Centre in Malvern.
Wheelchair Loan
We also have saddle-seated wheelchairs which provide a stable therapeutic sitting position to enable severely disabled children to improve breathing, swallowing and use of their upper body.
Saddle Seated Wheelchair
The saddle seated wheelchair was developed by ARCOS director Kay Coombes, and has been described as ‘revolutionary’, winning the International design award in 1994. The saddle seating system is therapeutic; promoting a comfortable, upright sitting position that provides a stable foundation for functional activities. People using a saddle-seated chair receive a great deal of helpful sensation from muscles, joints and skin. This is the feedback information we all need to feel safe and able to move without losing balance. It also encourages normal postural tone (essential tension in muscles).
Because the body is supported, but not held in a fixed position, those using a saddle-seated chair have an opportunity to increase body control, be mobile and hence become more independent. In 2006, the wheelchair is being further developed, following motion analysis studies, as demonstrated in the photo alongside.
The position of the pelvis is a key factor in sitting. The saddle seat puts the pelvis in a position where it is both well supported and mobile.
The firm, but comfortable seat, encourages the spine to extend.
The upper body (trunk) is supported by flexible padded “wings”.
The shaped table is integral to the design. The padded edge supports the users forearms and gives a secure and stable base for hand-eye activities, encouraging the trunk to come forward and promoting head control.
For therapy, training, advice and support call us on 01684 576795 or email:admin@arcos.org.uk
Endorsements from both users and professionals
“It is an excellent chair and I would be happy to see this become a standard for chairs in the future”
- Consultant Orthopaedic surgeon
“We cannot put a price on the difference this chair has made on our daughter’s life and our lives”
- Father of a client with cerebral palsy
“… I thought it was my mind that was unstable but it was my body… my wheelchair is very comfortable… my back is straight, my hips are in the right position and I can see the whole world…”
- User
“… I can communicate better, even without words…”
- User
“… Yesterday I was so uncomfortable when I was shopping in my crappy old red wheelchair. I felt very disabled again…”
- User
“The silence of speechlessness is never golden. We all need to communicate and connect with each other – not just in one way, but also in as many ways as possible. It is a basic human need, a basic human right. And much more than this, it’s a basic human power.’
Williams, 2000
Children
We offer a multi-sensory environment for calming relaxation and sensory stimulation. Children with a variety of disabilities attend.
Adults
Through specialist multi-disciplinary therapies, rehabilitation activities, and emotional support to make a difference and changing lives.
Professionals
We provide training in understanding best practice care and the latest technological support for a range of conditions for healthcare professionals.
Carers
ARCOS provide physical and online training, information, and advice. You also gain a network of peer support to assist you through your journey.
Arsha's Story
Oliver's Story
Life before the children’s therapy that ARCOS has provided was very hard for Oliver and me. He struggled with so many things, hated change with a passion, and hardly ever wanted attention or cuddles…
