Wheelchair user calls for better provision after being left stranded for a weekend

Phil Plant questions lack of weekend support after being left unable to move for two days

A wheelchair user with multiple sclerosis has called for improved support after being left unable to move for an entire weekend due to a malfunctioning electric wheelchair.

Phil Plant, who relies on an electric wheelchair for mobility, had his chair replaced by Manx Care a week ago after his previous one was deemed ‘out of date’.

However, on Friday, the new chair began to develop faults, prompting him to contact Manx Care.

A repair team was sent out, but on Saturday, the issues worsened when the arm of the wheelchair detached, preventing him from operating it.

Upon contacting Manx Care again, Mr Plant was informed that there was no provision for repairs over the weekend and that assistance would not be available until Monday.

As a result, he was confined to bed for the entire weekend, unable to eat or change his catheter.

Two staff members attended to Mr Plant’s chair on Monday morning, shortly before midday.

They confirmed to Manx Radio that there is currently no weekend provision for wheelchair repairs.

This is not the first time Mr Plant has faced difficulties with his mobility aid.

In November 2022, he encountered similar issues when his electric wheelchair malfunctioned. Despite seeking assistance from hospital teams, he claims he was not helped and was even hung up on, before eventually receiving support from an off-duty ambulance worker.

At the time, Manx Care stated that an investigation was underway.

Reflecting on his recent experience, Mr Plant questioned whether any action had been taken following the previous incident and expressed concerns that disabled individuals are being neglected:

Manx Care released a statement in response: "Manx Care cannot discuss individual cases. Naturally we regret that one of our service users has not had the level of response they expected despite the appropriate and timely support given over recent weeks.

"We will be investigating the matter with those concerned."