Enhancing Accessibility and Freedom: A Success Story with Stiltz Homelifts
Independent Occupational Therapist Stuart Barrow takes a look at a recent Stiltz customer story which highlights the need for safety and accessibility when children with disabilities are concerned.
Stuart Barrow: As an Occupational Therapist, I am continually inspired by stories of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of assistive devices. The Blueman family’s journey to secure a Stiltz Trio+ Homelift for their 6-year-old daughter, Jasmine, is a heartwarming example of how these devices can change lives.
Jasmine, a young girl with complex disabilities, faced numerous challenges, including Global Motor Delay and the inability to walk or speak. Her parents, Andy and Tara, found themselves in a precarious situation, struggling with the daily task of carrying Jasmine up and down the stairs. The Bluemans’ story begins with the recognition of a problem, one that was not only emotionally taxing but also posed significant physical risks.
To address these challenges, the family decided to explore the option of a through-floor lift. This decision not only involved finding a suitable lift but also the arduous process of obtaining funding through the Disabilities Facilities Grant (DFG) provided by their local authority. The DFG is designed to assist with home accessibility adaptations, making it an essential resource for families like the Bluemans.
Unfortunately, their initial attempts to secure a through-floor lift via the DFG process were met with obstacles and delays. The local authority’s recommended supplier failed to align with the Bluemans’ vision and needs. As Andy recalls, “the conversation went just one way,” and the delays were mounting. Meanwhile, Jasmine’s health remained a top priority, and her parents had to prioritise her care over home adaptations.
Frustration, uncertainty, and mounting stress became the new normal for the Blueman family. The process that was meant to facilitate accessibility was causing additional hardship. It was during this challenging time that they decided to take matters into their own hands and explore alternative solutions. This is when Stiltz Homelifts entered their lives.
Stiltz Homelifts offered a unique and aesthetically pleasing solution to the Bluemans’ accessibility needs. The quiet, integrated electric motor and absence of a separate hydraulic pump were features that particularly appealed to Andy, who sometimes needed to sleep during the day due to his night shifts. Furthermore, Stiltz’s ability to work closely with the Bluemans on the DFG application, maintaining constant communication with all parties, made a crucial difference.
The Blueman family’s persistence eventually paid off as they managed to convince their local authority that a Stiltz Homelift was the correct solution for their unique situation. Funding was approved, and the installation process began. Stiltz managed the entire process, from coordinating builders and electricians to the final installation. The Bluemans could now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that they were one step closer to improving their family’s quality of life.
The impact of the Stiltz Homelift on the Blueman family’s life has been profound. Jasmine’s newfound ability to navigate their home independently has granted her a level of freedom and autonomy she had never experienced before. She can now seamlessly move between different rooms, the kitchen, the lounge, her playroom, and even outside, all at the push of a button. Andy emphasises,
“It’s amazing, it’s made a huge difference to our lives.”
As Jasmine continues to grow, the Stiltz Homelift will become an even more indispensable tool for her and her caregivers. It not only ensures Jasmine’s safety and well-being but also makes it easier for respite carers to provide the care she needs.
In closing, the Blueman family’s story serves as a testament to the importance of persistence, advocacy, and exploring all available options when seeking assistive devices for individuals with disabilities. Their journey underscores the critical role that local authorities and grant programs play in supporting families in need. Most importantly, their experience with Stiltz Homelifts shows that the right assistive device can be life-changing, enhancing accessibility, in
She can now seamlessly move between different rooms, the kitchen, the lounge, her playroom, and even outside, all at the push of a button
ANDY BLUEMAN
