Disabled man left struggling to access help after wheelchair malfunction

66-year-old told relevant services not available

A man from Glen Vine has raised concerns about the emergency support available for disabled people ‘out of hours’.

Phil Plant, who suffers from MS, was left struggling for help this week after his electric wheelchair malfunctioned.

He noticed issues with his chair on Wednesday morning which got progressively worse throughout the day.

Despite calling for assistance from the relevant teams at the hospital he claims he wasn't helped, was hung up on, and ended up needing to be helped by an off-duty ambulance worker.

Mr Plant told Lewis Foster he was left trapped:

Manx Care says it’s passed Manx Radio’s request for a response to the estates team within the Department of Infrastructure.

A spokesperson for the department said: "The estates team works closely with colleagues in Manx Care by undertaking repairs for the benefit of wheelchair users across the Island, in line with agreed service levels. 

"An investigation is underway and appropriate action will be taken, if required."