It has opened a new mobility aids distribution point at the council run leisure centre WV Active-Aldersley, through which people will be able to collect and return wheelchairs which they have borrowed on a short term loan.
The service is aimed at adults and children aged 5 and over who require a wheelchair because they are either recovering from an injury, illness or operation, or are awaiting long term wheelchair provision.
Two types of wheelchairs are available, self propelled chairs and transit chairs which are pushed by someone else. Fully trained British Red Cross staff and volunteers are on hand to show people how to use the wheelchairs correctly.
Lorraine Ellis-Williams, Hub Operations Manager for the British Red Cross Mobility Aids Service, said: "We believe that everyone should have access to the equipment they need, when they need it, and we are delighted that our Mobility Aids Service has commenced operating from WV Active-Aldersley in response to increasing demand in the area.
"We would like to thank the City of Wolverhampton Council for helping us to set up a distribution point in the city and we look forward to providing vital help and support to local residents."
The Mobility Aids Service is available at WV Active-Aldersley every Monday from 10am to 1pm during which times people will be able to collect and return their equipment. People can book online at British Red Cross - Hire a wheelchair or call 0300 456 1914 and select Option 7 when prompted.
Councillor Linda Leach, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: "This is a vital service and we are very pleased to have been able to work with the British Red Cross to bring it to Wolverhampton.
“Until recently, the nearest equipment distribution point to Wolverhampton was in Telford, but now thanks to this partnership people can collect and return wheelchairs at WV Active-Aldersley."
The British Red Cross is appealing for help to deliver the service at WV Active-Aldersley, and is keen to hear from anyone who is able to volunteer their time between 9.30am and 1.30pm on Mondays. The organisation is also planning to expand the service depending on demand. Anyone who would like to volunteer is asked to please call 01952 228303 or email wheelchairvolunteer@redcross.org.uk.
