Wheelchair services run by firm

A private company will take over the running of Kent’s Millbrook Healthcare amid the ongoing “shambles” around the provision of its wheelchair care services across the county.

Staff at Millbrook Healthcare were told specialist private investment firm, Cairngorm Capital Partners, will become the leading administrator for the running of the company, which has bases in Ashford and Gillingham. The shock announcement was revealed during Kent County Council’s health and scrutiny committee meeting at Maidstone’s County Hall. It came during a discussion about the problems with the service which has led to patients experiencing significant delays in equipment provision, repairs and assessment for more than 18 weeks.

Cllr Mike Angell described the situation as a “shambles.” Millbrook Healthcare makes equipment and provides assessment services and home-based adaptations to help people live independently.

Over the last year Millbrook has been scrutinised by the county council for its wheelchair service provision.

In an NHS report presented to the committee, it was revealed of the 396 wheelchair repairs completed in May this year, only 28% were completed within three working days. The report added numbers of complaints had reduced. However the meeting was told Colin Croll, Millbrook’s owner had decided to leave, so the board had found a new partner.

Matthew Inder, from the firm, said the company has a healthcare background. Councillors expressed worries about private companies being involved in health services.