Moving and handling (View our product range here)

If you look after someone with an illness or disability, you may need to help them move around. It's essential that you know how to move them safely so you don't hurt yourself or them.

You may need to help someone:
• get in or out of bed,
• turn over in bed,
• sit up in bed,
• bathe,
• shower,
• use the toilet,
• sit in a chair,
• stand,
• walk,
• get up from the floor after a fall, or
• get in and out of a vehicle.

Typical injuries

The most common injuries that carers experience are back injuries, which affect more than a million people in the UK. Injuring your back will limit your movement and your ability to care for someone. It could take a long time for you to recover.

Lifting someone incorrectly can also damage fragile skin, cause shoulder and neck injuries, increase existing breathing difficulties or cause bruising or cuts.

Lifting techniques

Before attempting to move someone, ask yourself:
• Does the person need help to move?
• Does the person require help or supervision?
• Have you told the person you're moving them?
• How heavy is the person you're moving?
• Are you healthy and strong enough to move them?
• Is there anyone who could help you?
• How long will it take?
• Is there enough space around you?
• Are there any obstacles in the way?
• Are you wearing suitable clothing and shoes?

If you have assessed the situation and have decided to move the person, follow the advice below:

• Never lift above shoulder height.
• Make sure your feet are stable.
• Take a firm hold.
• Keep any weight close to your body.
• Keep your back straight and bend your knees.
• Lift as smoothly as possible.

Buying equipment

You may decide that you need specialist moving equipment. Before you buy any equipment, it’s helpful to get advice from a healthcare professional such as an occupational therapist or a social worker. We have advisors who are specifically trained in the use of hoists and slings, they can demonstrate equipment safely and show how simple it is to use.

Try all equipment before you buy it. We regularly visit clients to give them a chance to try products themselves before purchasing them. We can offer advice on which product best suits your requirements, which sling to use and how to get the most for your money.

Products

Mobile hoists can be made from steel or aluminium and both have various features, your advisor can go through these with you. There are many slings available on the market, used for transferring clients, it can be a minefield finding the right one to use but we can give a breakdown of each one and recommend the best for your application. Slings are used for general transfer but some are designed for toileting, standing or extra comfort.

Remember products can be portable or fixed in your home if they are to be used regularly. Ceiling track hoists can open up rooms of your home to allow you to access them freely. Fixing is hassle free, they are easy to use and can make a lot of difference helping you get from one place to another. Our advisor can conduct a short survey of your home and give advice relating to the best option for you.

There are many products designed for moving and handling available on the market today, we have mentioned just a few here. Please contact our Moving & Handling advisor or Access Solutions specialist to discuss your requirements further.