Students at the acclaimed National Star college are set to benefit from equipment worth £67,000, donated by Cheltenham-based Astor Bannerman.
The specialist patient handling equipment manufacturer is giving 675 slings to the Ullenwood headquartered charity, which supports young people with complex disabilities – with National Star saying the gift will ‘make a huge difference to young people’s lives.’
Verity Fisher, physiotherapy manager at National Star, said: ‘Seventy per cent of National Star’s learners and residents use wheelchairs and many need hoisting for all transfers so slings are absolutely vital.
‘In a year where there have been many additional costs linked to the ongoing pandemic such a generous donation of vital equipment is even more valuable.
‘Due to the pandemic we have to wash slings more frequently and we have to allocate slings to individuals to lower any risk of infection. Having an additional supply is incredibly helpful.’
Astor Bannerman marketing manager, Jane Fraser-Hook, said: ‘Astor Bannerman is delighted to make this sizeable sling donation.
‘In January, Astor Bannerman took over OpeMed brand, one of the leading overhead track hoist companies, which gave us access to a surplus of slings.
‘We have an historic relationship with National Star, our neighbours, so couldn’t think of a better place to donate them to, supporting their fantastic organisation and work.’
By Andrew Merrell
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