NAEP Conference 2025

Engaging Workshops and Real Conversations

One of the highlights of the conference for us, was the opportunity to attend two popular workshops, one of which focused on bariatric equipment provision, a topic that’s becoming increasingly important for OTs, service managers, and suppliers alike.

Workshop: Bariatric/ Plus Size Equipment Provision

• Lack of Customisation: Many standardised equipment options are not flexible or adaptable enough to meet the individual needs of bariatric clients. OTs expressed frustration at the limited ability to tailor equipment to different shapes, sizes, and environments.
• Cost Considerations: There was a strong recognition that while bariatric equipment is often more expensive, the cost needs to be weighed against the long-term benefits of safety, usability, and product lifespan.
• Limited Guidance: OTs shared a desire for clearer clinical guidance and frameworks when working with plus-sized clients, especially around appropriate product selection, installation, and ongoing care.
• Restricted Supplier Options: The current market has a relatively small pool of reliable suppliers, which can make sourcing suitable bariatric solutions both time-consuming and inconsistent.
• Structural Challenges in Homes: A very practical concern raised was the structural impact of bariatric equipment. OTs are increasingly having to consider not only the weight capacity of equipment, but also the integrity of floors, doorways, and walls when supporting plus-sized individuals.
• Product Lifespan: Durability is a big issue. Many OTs noted concerns about how long equipment remains safe and effective under sustained use by heavier individuals, reinforcing the need for robust, long-term solutions.

What This Means for Us

As a provider of specialist rehabilitation equipment, these insights are incredibly valuable. We’re already working to address several of these challenges by expanding our bariatric product range, exploring more customisable solutions, and partnering with department OTs and commissioners to offer guidance and support where it’s most needed.

This session underlined the growing need for collaborative innovation in bariatric equipment. At Wealden Rehab, we’re committed to listening and responding to these needs with equipment that balances strength, adaptability, and dignity for users.

Workshop: Children’s Equipment Provision – Facing the Pressure

The second workshop we attended tackled a wide range of challenges around children’s equipment provision. The conversation was honest, solutions-focused, and revealed the scale of the pressures being faced:

• Financial Pressures: Post-COVID shipping delays and tighter budgets are pushing teams to make difficult decisions.
• ‘Good Enough’ vs Gold Standard: Some commissioning panels are opting for what’s “good enough,” leading to frustrations when clinicians and families want to aim higher.
• Customisation Challenges: While custom equipment can be essential, it also increases costs and extends lead times.
• Information Gaps: OTs are asking for more data on the benefits of equipment—for example, how it may improve muscle tone—to help justify provision.
• Transitions & Timing: Children often outgrow equipment before it arrives. Faster delivery and better forecasting are vital.
• Commissioning Excellence: One bright spot came from Julie Edwards (Beds/Milton Keynes Council), who shared best practices including pre-ordering, reusing old stock first, and setting clear budget expectations. Her framework is now being looked to as a model across other authorities.

A common theme emerged: prevention is better than cure. Providing the right equipment at the right time helps avoid bigger problems down the road, from physical complications to emotional strain for families.