Medway Community Equipment Loan Service re-awarded to continue enhancing safety

Medway Council and NHS Kent and Medway have re-awarded the Medway Community Equipment Loan Service contract to community equipment specialist Medequip.

From 1 September 2025, Medequip will continue its role as the commissioned provider for an initial term of five years, with the option to extend. Medequip has delivered this vital service to residents across Medway since September 2020, helping people remain safe and independent in their own homes.

Over the past five years, Medequip has introduced several initiatives to enhance service efficiency and sustainability, and the new contract will see these improvements developed even further.

One notable success has been the introduction of community equipment return points across the borough, making it easier for residents to return items they no longer need, says Medequip.

Since January 2024, these locations have seen 3,185 items brought back into circulation, with a cost saving of £65,000, taking into account direct credit value back to the contract commissioners and avoided cost from not having to purchase new replacements.

When combined with all returns collected by Medequip, including direct home collections, this approach has contributed to £1.8 million worth of equipment credits.

Every returned item is quality-checked, cleaned, and placed back on the shelf, ready to support another Medway resident, reducing waste, protecting the environment, and maximising value for commissioners, according to Medequip. Additional return locations are already being explored to make the process even more convenient.

Other service enhancements include automated follow-up calls to individuals who have received equipment, checking that it remains fit for purpose and offering guidance on returning items when they are no longer required. This not only ensures the people have the right equipment that meets their needs but also supports a faster turnaround for others in need.

Peter Adamson, General Manager at Medequip, said: “We are incredibly proud of the team’s dedication to supporting the people of Medway.

“From adding equipment return points to offering follow-up checks that ensure equipment is working as it should and still needed by them, every initiative is designed to make a real difference in people’s lives. We look forward to building on these successes and continuing our partnership with Medway commissioners and prescribers.”

The Rochester depot is also expanding its self-funded product options and independent living hub, giving local people more choice and helping people stay independent.

Councillor Teresa Murray, Deputy Leader of Medway Council and Portfolio Holder for Public Health, added: “Our partnership with Medequip has been beneficial for everyone – providers, commissioners and most importantly our residents.

“Through working with Medequip, loaned equipment can be kept in circulation for longer with repairs once it has been returned, things that can no longer be used can be recycled properly, and vitally, people can get the equipment they need to support their independence faster.”

Medequip was also awarded the contract to deliver the Community Equipment Loan Service for the East Riding of Yorkshire and Hull.