Stair Lifts

Dolphin Stairlifts Hampshire and Dorset Website

2012-01-09T17:02:00.001Z

The Dolphin Stairlifts Hampshire and Dorset branch have newly updated pages on their website featuring Outdoor Stairlifts and a new Stannah Stairlifts page.

To arrange a quotation in the Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire area please call Dolphin Stairlifts Poole on 0500 575 333. If you live elsewhere in the country please call 0800 9800 126 and we will put you on to your local branch.

Outdoor Stairlifts on Google+

2012-01-05T12:27:00.001Z

https://plus.google.com/u/0/b/107978322149436641013/photos/107978322149436641013/albums/5677776531208493761

Follow the above link to see a gallery of images featuring outdoor stairlifts for use on external staircases. To see more information on our outdoor stairlifts visit the following pages on our website.

Meditek Outdoor Stairlifts

Minivator Outdoor Stairlifts

Homeglide Outdoor Stairlifts

Stannah Outdoor Stairlifts

Hawle Outdoor Stairlifts for curved staircases and stairs with mid-landings

Hawle Outdoor Stairlift for stairs with bends

If you are in the Hampshire, Dorset or Wiltshire area information on outdoor stairlifts can be found on the Dolphin Stairlifts Poole website.

To book a quotation or if you need to speak with someone to get some advice, please call us free in the UK on 0800 9800 126.

Stairlift Job Vacancy

2012-01-03T15:17:00.003Z

Weekend Call-Out Engineer - Surrey Branch

We have an opportunity for an experienced stair lift engineer, to cover London and the south east for emergency call out / repairs and servicing.

The applicant will be expected to cover 3 twelve hour shifts, each Friday, Saturday and Sunday (9am-9pm), a company van and telephone will be provided.

The ideal applicant will have experience with stairlifts, through floor lifts and hoists, although training courses will be arranged with the manufacturers to improve product knowledge. Salary will be dependent on experience.

Dolphin Mobility is an equal opportunities company. If you are interested in any of the vacancies shown please reply with CV to:

Dolphin Mobility Ltd, 37 Chertsey Road, Chobham, Surrey, GU24 8PD. Tel: 01276 856060.

Dolphin Stairlifts on Google+

2011-12-05T18:27:00.001Z

Click the link to see Dolphin's Google+ page.

The Handicare Freelift Elegance Stairlift Chair

2011-11-24T09:21:00.001Z

The Handicare Elegance seat is now available for a small premium at point of order. The Elegance seat provides a more comfortable alternative to the Classic seat. Featuring soft foam padding and a stylish upholstery, the Elegance is a welcome addition to the Freelift Stairlifts range.

The chair is available as a manual or powered swivel and can also be fitted with seat to footrest linkage. Click the link for more information on Freelift Stairlifts or call us free in the UK on 0800 9800 126.

Stannah Stairlifts Heightened Seat Height

2011-11-22T16:11:00.001Z

Stannah introduce 100mm & 150mm heightened seat options

We are pleased to introduce this option for the 260 Sarum and Saxon chairs. It has been designed to assist you in offering a better seating position for the user, whilst reducing the minimum staircase width requirement.

It is recommended for users between 5ft 5” and 6ft and for those with reduced knee movement. In some cases, the minimum staircase width can be reduced by 30mm - 50mm, depending on the user’s knee flexion.

This option is only available with a reduced seat.
This option is not compatible with a powered swivel seat.
Please take the height increase into account when calculating bulkhead clearances.

For more options please call Dolphin on 01276 856060.

Care Roadshows - Brighton

2011-11-17T16:58:00.001Z

Care Roadshows are a series of events catered to all decision makers within the care sector. They bring together key industry experts with suppliers to create a stimulating and inspiring environment for all professionals within this evolving industry.

Dolphin Stairlifts will be exhibiting at the upcoming show in the Hilton Brighton Metropole on the 23rd of November between 10 am and 4pm.

For more details see http://www.careroadshows.co.uk/when-and-where.htm.

London hoteliers eye £2b tourism segment

2011-11-01T14:38:00.000Z

London hoteliers eye £2b tourism segment

Starla Stairlift Images

2011-10-28T12:27:00.000+01:00

We have some new images of the Stannah Starla straight and curved stairlifts. The Starla has replaced the Sofia and Solus chairs as the premium model in the Stannah range.

Click the following link to see the entire range of Stannah stairlift products and a guide to prices.

Outdoor Stairlifts for curved stairs - Hawle Video

2011-10-27T17:39:00.001+01:00

The Hawle is the only curved stairlift that can be used outdoors. Supplied and installed in the UK by Dolphin Stairlifts, the Hawle is German engineering at its best. Capable of carrying up to 150 kg the stairlift can be used on staircases with a gradient as steep as 75 degrees.

If you would like more information on the Hawle stairlift or if you would like to arrange a free no obligation quotation please call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126.

New Outdoor Stairlift

2011-10-06T21:42:00.002+01:00

The new HomeGlide outdoor stairlift is available to buy from Dolphin Stairlifts. The HomeGlide external stairlift is built to last and has excellent weather protection including a protected rack and pinion and rubber drive cover.

The stairlifts mainboard is treated and the chair comes with a protective cover to be used when the stairlift has been parked. For more information or to arrange a free quotation please call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126.

HomeGlide Basic Stairlift Video

2011-10-04T16:32:00.001+01:00

The HomeGlide Stairlift, now available from Dolphin, is a straight stairlift with installed prices starting from £1395. You can see a video of the HomeGlide by clicking on the play button below.

The HomeGlide Extra Stairlift costs from £1995 installed, for more details on either product please call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 or visit the Dolphin website.

Stannah Starla Stairlift for Curved Stairs

2011-09-13T15:48:00.000+01:00

The new Stannah Starla Curved Stairlift is now available to buy from Dolphin Stairlifts with installed prices starting from £4195 including installation and up to 5 metres of rail. The Starla replaces the Sofia and Solus models and can be used on straight and curved stairs with the Stannah 420 and 260 rails respectively.

Fitted to the stairs not the wall

The Starla chair runs along slim, twin rails that are tailor-made to fit your stairs and ensure the tightest fit possible. The rail is also attached to the stairs, not to the wall, so installation is quick and clean.

Stannah 260 Starla Curved Stairlift

Choice of colours to blend in with your décor

The widest selection of upholstery material is available in either modern leather or soft woven fabrics. Choose from a wide range of contemporary colours, so you can match the chair to your home's décor.

Easy to get on and off

Using the levers enables you to swivel the seat easily, making it simple to get off the chair. Alternatively, you can choose to have a powered swivel seat, which turns the chair to face the landing automatically.

Starla Curved Stairlift

No need to bend down to fold away chair

A powered footrest button helps with easy folding and is ideal if you have difficulty lifting your feet when getting onto the stairlift.

Powered footrest Starla Stairlift

The position of the controls can be adjusted

The controls can be mounted on either the right or left arm, depending on your preference.Operate stairlift even when you’re not on it.

Starla arm controls

Remote controls allow you to control the stairlift without being on it

You can call the stairlift to you or send it to someone at the top or bottom of the staircase.

Starla Remote Controls

Stairlift won’t move until you’re safely seated

The unique seat-load sensor fitted to all Stannah Starla's ensures that your stairlift won't move until you're safely seated and ready to go.

Stairlift ascending stairs

Seatbelt can be fastened with one hand

The easy-to-use seatbelt has been developed with customers to ensure it meets their needs and can be fastened and unfastened with only one hand.

Starla Seatbelt

Stops automatically if it meets an obstruction

Safety edges on both the carriage and the footrest ensure the Starla stairlift stops gently but immediately if it encounters an obstruction on the stairs.

Starla Stairlift Safety Edges

Stairlift can be immobilised

The control has a keyswitch which can completely immobilise the stairlift, ideal if children are around.

Stairlift Keyswitch

Easy-to-use controls

The control just requires your hand to move it left or right, depending on the direction you want to go, so it's easy to use, even for those with less able fingers.

Intuitive Control

If you would like further information or if you would like to arrange a formal quotation you can call Dolphin Stairlifts free on 0800 9800 126.

Stannah Starla Stairlifts

2011-09-13T14:34:00.000+01:00

The new Stannah Starla Stairlift is now available to buy from Dolphin Lifts with installed prices starting from £1995 for a standard straight lift. The Starla replaces the Sofia and Solus models and can be used on straight and curved stairs with the Stannah 420 and 260 rails respectively.

Fitted to the stairs not the wall

The Starla runs along a slim-line rail and is fitted to the stairs rather than the wall so installation is quick and clean.

Starla fixed to the tread of the stairs

Choice of colours to blend in with your décor

Choose from a wide range of contemporary colours, in either luxurious leather or soft woven fabric, so you can blend the chair to your home's décor.

Starla Upholstery Colours

Getting off a Starla Stairlift

No need to bend down to fold away chair

A powered footrest button helps with easy folding and is ideal if you have difficulty lifting your feet when getting onto the stairlift.

No need to bend down

The position of the controls can be adjusted

The controls can be mounted on either the right or left arm, depending on your preference.

Starla Controls

Operate stairlift even when you’re not on it

A remote control allows you to control the stairlift without being on it. You can call the stairlift to you or send it to someone at the top or bottom of the staircase.

Starla Remote Controls

Stairlift won’t move until you’re safely seated

The unique seat-load sensor ensures that your stairlift won't move until you're safely seated and ready to go.

Starla Seat Load Sensor

Seatbelt can be fastened with one hand

Our easy-to-use seatbelt has been developed with customers to ensure it meets their needs and can be fastened and unfastened with only one hand.

Unique Seat Belt

Stops automatically if it meets an obstruction

Safety edges on both the carriage and the footrest ensure the stairlift stops gently but immediately if it encounters an obstruction on the stairs.

Footrest Safety Edge Sensor

Stairlift can be immobilised

The control has a keyswitch which can completely immobilise the stairlift, ideal if children are around.

Stairlift Keyswitch

Easy-to-use controls

The control just requires your hand to move it left or right, depending on the direction you want to go, so it's easy to use, even for those with less able fingers.

Please contact Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 if you would like more information or if you wish to arrange a formal quotation. Alternatively you can check the price of this and other stairlifts on our online Dolphin Stairlifts Prices Calculator.

Stairlifts - Prices Calculator

2011-09-09T16:38:00.000+01:00

Many stairlift companies are reluctant to let you know their prices until they can get a salesman into your home. At Dolphin Lifts you can check our stairlifts prices online.

Hawle Curved Stairlifts

2011-07-19T16:02:00.000+01:00

The Hawle Curved stairlift is now available to buy in the UK from Dolphin Mobility.

The Hawle is quality German engineering at its best and can even be manufactured to work on external staircases, it is one of the only outdoor stairlifts available and in our opinion, definitely the best. For more information please contact Dolphin on 01276 856060.

Hinged Tracks for Straight Stairlifts

2011-07-05T16:59:00.000+01:00

If there is a door or passageway at the bottom of the stairs then it is likely that you will need a folding track or hinged rail stairlift. This means that the bottom section of the rail can be folded out of the way when the lift is not being used.

Meditek Hinged Track

Homeglide Hinged Track

Stannah Hinged Track

A hinged track stairlift allows you to gain access to a door that would be blocked by a normal rail and also means that there is no tripping hazard if you have an open hallway downstairs.

The New Stannah Starla Stairlift

2011-06-24T13:55:00.000+01:00

The new Stannah Starla previewed at Naidex this year is the latest stairlift design from the world's best known stairlift manufacturer.

Links to brochures and dimensions can be found on the following pages of our website.

Stannah Starla Straight Stairlift

Stannah Starla Curved Stairlift

Stannah Starla - Downstairs

Stannah Starla - Armrest

Stannah Starla - Curved Stairlift

Stannah Starla - Harness

Stannah Starla - Seat Belt

We expect the Stannah Starla to be available to the trade in the next few months at which point we will update the prices on the Stannah pages of our website.

Dolphin Bathrooms to enter administration

2011-06-24T10:02:00.000+01:00

News broke yesterday that the owner of Dolphin Bathrooms, private equity firm Homeform, plans to go into administration.

Dolphin Mobility and the other members of the Dolphin Stairlifts Group would like to make it absolutely clear that they have nothing to do with Dolphin Bathrooms or Homeform in any way, shape or form.

Meditek Stairlift with Bridging Platform

2011-06-01T15:35:00.000+01:00

The following images show a straight Meditek Stairlift with a drop down bridging platform and a seat with a downside barrier arm.

Meditek Stairlift with Loop / Barrier Arm

Meditek Stairlift with dropdown platform

For more information, please call Dolphin on 01276 856060 or click the following highlighted link for further details of the Meditek Stairlift range.

Flow 2 Stairlifts for Curved Stairs

2011-04-15T15:37:00.000+01:00

Below, we have more detailed images of Flow Stairlifts. The images give a good sense of the benefits of the Flow 2, showing the low rail height which can be achieved with certain layouts, as well as the neat finish around the bends.

A Flow Stairlift ascending

Flow Stairlifts drop nose rail

Flow Stairlift rail seen from above

Flow Stairlift parked downstairs

Flow Stairlift with 180 degree bend

Using the flow stairlift

Flow Stairlift joystick control

Clcik the following link if you would like more information on the Access BDD stairlifts range or call Dolphin on 01276 856060.

Flow Stairlifts for Curved Stairs

2011-04-14T17:46:00.000+01:00

Dolphin are pleased to announce the addition of Flow Stairlifts for curved stairs to their product portfolio. If your staircase is very narrow, the Advanced Ride Monitoring System of the Flow's powered swivel feature turns the chair and footrest to clear the narrowest staircase sections. Theoretically it is possible to install the lift on a staircase as narrow as 61cm.

The Flow Stairlift viewed from above

The Flow Stairlift in use

The Flow Stairlifts single rail system is one of the most technologically advanced on the market. The rail can be installed on either side of the stairs and is designed to stay as close to the staircase as possible. A drop nose (or droop nose) rail option is available if there is an obstruction, such as a door, at the bottom of the stairs.

Features and benefits of the Flow 2 include:

Clean and hassle free installation

2 remote controls

Choice of joystick controls

Choice of manual and powered swivel seats

Different rail colours available

Weight capacity of 125 kg (20 stone)

Automatic seat rotation whilst travelling

Can fit on very narrow staircases

If you would like more information or if you would like to make an appointment for a surveyor to visit your home, please call Dolphin Stairlifts on 0800 9800 126.

HomeGlide Stairlifts installed from only £1395

2011-04-13T17:00:00.000+01:00

Dolphin Mobility are pleased to announce the addition of the Access BDD stairlift range to their product portfolio. Manufacturers of the Homeglide Stairlift and the Flow 2 Curved Stairlift, Access Business Development Division is a Division of ThyssenKrupp Access Ltd UK.

With an installed price of only £1395, the Homeglide is suitable for straight staircases only. Features and benefits of the HomeGlide include:

Quick installation

2 remote controls

On/off switch as standard

Choice of manual and powered swivel stairlift seats

Battery powered

Seat to footrest link available

Weight capacity of 138 kgs (21.5 stone)

Built in soft start / stop

Joystick seat controls

For more information contact Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 or visit the Dolphin Stairlifts website.

New Stannah Sofia Stairlifts installed from £2100

2011-04-08T15:09:00.000+01:00

Dolphin Mobility can supply and install a straight Stannah Sofia stairlift from £2100 including a 2 year warranty.

New Stannah Stairlifts Installed from £1695

2011-03-22T17:00:00.000Z

If you live in the South East or North West of England Dolphin Mobility can install brand new Stannah Stairlifts for straight stairs from as little as £1695 including a 2 year warranty.

Stannah Saxon 420 Stairlift

Other Dolphin branches may be able to match this price but you will have to check with your local branch. For more details please visit the Dolphin Stairlifts website or call us on 0800 9800 126.

Hawle Stairlifts for Curved Staircases

2011-03-01T12:00:00.000Z

The Hawle HW10 Stairlift, now available in the UK from Dolphin Mobility, is suitable for installation on practically every type of curved or spiral staircase.

German engineering ensures peace of mind when installing the Hawle into public buildings and homes with particularly long staircases. The robustness of the product makes it suitable for heavy use and with regular maintenance the Hawle stairlift should last for several years.

An exceptional maximum angle of incline of 75 degrees is, as far as I know, unsurpassed in the stairlift industry and is testimony to the engineering excellence behind the product. Please visit our website for updated information on the Hawle Curved stairlift or call us on 0800 9800 126

Hawle Curved Stairlifts

2011-02-24T14:06:00.000Z

The Hawle curved stairlift is suitable for steep stairs with a gradient of up to 75° and has a 150kg weight capacity. Now available to buy in the UK from Dolphin Lifts, call 0800 9800 126 for more details.

Half a million Stannah Stairlifts

2011-02-09T15:10:00.000Z

Stannah Stairlifts are to celebrate the manufacture of their 500,000th stairlift with a visit from the Prince of Wales.

Curved Stairlifts with 30 Stone Lifting Capacity

2010-11-19T17:11:00.000Z

Dolphin are pleased to announce the UK release of the new heavy duty curved stairlift from Homeadapt. Manufactured by Bruno Independent Living Aids, North America's largest producer of indoor stairlifts, the Elite Curved has a 30 stone lifting capacity as standard.

For more information please call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 or check the Dolphin Stairlifts website.

Stairlift Bogus Caller Strikes in Sidney Street

2010-11-19T15:41:00.000Z

November 12 2010
A conman targeted an 85-year-old woman in Gloucester by pretending to be carrying out work on her stair lift.

The incident happened between 2.30pm and 3.10pm on Thursday, November 11 in Sidney Street.
The offender called on the woman at her home and claimed he was there to fix the stair lift, asking for money to carry out repairs. The victim handed £100 over to the bogus caller but he claimed he needed to go and buy oil to do the work. He never returned.

The man is described as white, around 5ft 8ins tall, of stocky build, with short, dark hair. He was wearing navy trousers, a white shirt and a jacket. He left in a white van with ladders on the top, heading in the direction of Derby Road.

Crime Prevention Officer for the county Paul Francis said: “This is was a cold and heartless example of bogus calling. As he left the house the offender even had the gall to tell the victim to lock the door behind him.“

Anyone with information should call 0845 090 1234 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting incident 344 of November 11.

Paul Francis continued: “Our advice is don't let people in unless it's someone you know and trust or a business caller who has made a pre-arranged appointment.

“Please stick firmly to this rule whatever organisation the caller claims to represent and however urgent they say the work they have to come in and do is.

“Keep the door shut even if they appear to look official or flash ID at you as it could be fake.

"If business callers come to your home without making an appointment, ask them to come back later at an agreed time when you can have someone else with you.

“In the meantime, check their story by phoning the organisation they claim to represent.

“Look up the number in your telephone book rather than relying on the one on their card when you do this. No representative of a legitimate organisation will mind at all waiting while you do this.”

Summary of Information to Help You Avoid Becoming the Victim of a Distraction Burglar:

If someone knocks on your door: check who it is by looking through a window or peep-hole.
If it's not someone you know and trust or a business caller who has made a pre-arranged appointment, do NOT open the door.
This advice applies whatever uniform the caller appears to be wearing or ID card they are carrying and however urgent their business claims to be.
Tell unexpected business callers to leave and come back later at an agreed time when you can have someone else with you.
In the meantime, check their credentials by calling the organisation they claim to represent. Do so by looking up the number in your telephone book rather than using one on any card they might give you as this could simply put you through to an accomplice of a potential offender.
Friends and relatives of vulnerable people are urged to ensure they receive this information.

Heavy Duty Curved Stairlifts

2010-10-13T16:52:00.000+01:00

Dolphin Stairlifts will soon announce the release of a heavy duty curved stairlift to the UK market.

Uplifting role for Scott on his stair lift apprenticeship

2010-09-03T14:00:00.000+01:00

This article appeared on thisisbristol.co.uk.

A TEENAGER from Hanham has taken his first step towards an uplifting career after becoming an apprentice for a company that supplies and installs stair lifts and ramps.

Scott Coster has just finished his first month at Dolphin Lifts, a Portishead-based business that provides disabled access equipment for businesses and private individuals.

The 19-year-old successfully applied for the vacancy after reading about the opportunity with Dolphin in the Evening Post's 100 in 100 apprenticeship campaign.

The family-run company has seen a boom in business despite the recession, and now father-and-son team Tom and Steve Wakefield have taken on Scott to boost their staff number to six.

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Friday, September 03, 2010, 07:00
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Uplifting role for Scott on his stair lift apprenticeship
Uplifting role for Scott on his stair lift apprenticeship

A TEENAGER from Hanham has taken his first step towards an uplifting career after becoming an apprentice for a company that supplies and installs stair lifts and ramps.

Scott Coster has just finished his first month at Dolphin Lifts, a Portishead-based business that provides disabled access equipment for businesses and private individuals.

The 19-year-old successfully applied for the vacancy after reading about the opportunity with Dolphin in the Evening Post's 100 in 100 apprenticeship campaign.

The family-run company has seen a boom in business despite the recession, and now father-and-son team Tom and Steve Wakefield have taken on Scott to boost their staff number to six.

Mr Coster, a former Hanham High School pupil, is now on a two-year apprenticeship, during which he will study for an NVQ Level 2 and 3 in electrical and mechanical engineering.

But he also is also spending four days a week getting hands-on experience by working on site and picking up skills from Dolphin's senior engineers.

Mr Coster said: "The apprenticeship is brilliant. When I first read about it, it sounded really interesting and I've not been disappointed.

"It sounded really interesting, and as I wanted to learn some new skills I thought it could be a great way of leading into a career.

"Since I started a month ago I have been learning all about the stair lifts, and the engineers have been teaching me how to install, repair and maintain them.

"I am learning so much from watching the guys around me, and will no doubt learn even more when I go to college.

"I would love to stay with Dolphin after I have finished my apprenticeship. When I applied I wanted to do something that would set me up for the future, rather than just taking on any job. By getting further qualifications it will hopefully help my career in the future."

Dolphin's director, Tom Wakefield, said that having Mr Coster with the company would help the expansion of the business.

He said: "The business has been growing over the last couple of years, and we have just bought a new office and warehouse in Clevedon, so we felt it was the right time to take on a new apprentice.

"Having Scott means that we can teach someone our way of working and the skills that we use here.

"Scott is doing really well after his first month, and I have heard from the engineers that he is working really hard and is keen to learn, which is exactly what we wanted from an apprentice."

For more information on Dolphin Lifts Western, call 01275 818220 or visit www.dolphinstairlifts.com.

The Evening Post is campaigning to get 100 businesses across the Bristol area to offer young people the chance to work with them as apprentices. The campaign is aimed at companies of all sizes, across every industry.

If you are a business looking to take on an apprentice, or a young person keen to start an apprenticeship, email d.harris@bepp.co.uk.

For more information on apprenticeships, how to run one or to apply, call the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150 600 or visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

ASA Adjudication on Minivator Ltd

2010-09-02T15:53:00.000+01:00

Background
Minivator Group Ltd was acquired by Handicare Holdings UK Ltd. The ads were placed by Companion Stairlifts Ltd who have a trading relationship with Minivator Ltd now called Handicare Accessibility UK Ltd. Handicare Holdings UK Ltd was not responsible for the ads.

Ad
Magazine and press ads promoted stairlifts.

a. One ad was headed "STAIRLIFTS FROM HELP THE AGED WE WILL" and featured an image of a stairlift. Small print at the bottom of the page stated "Age Concern England and Help the Aged merged on 1st April 2009. Together they have formed Age UK ... 50% of all stairlift profits go directly to the charity. Help the Aged working in partnership with Minivator Group.

b. A second ad was headed "Give yourself a lift" and showed a woman using a stairlift. Under the heading "50 per cent of profits go to help the charity" text stated "By choosing a Minivator stairlift you will not only receive the benefits of a first-rate product, you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing that some of your money (please see profit percentage below) is contributing to towards the vital work Help the Aged does both in the UK and abroad ...".

c. The third ad contained the same text and image as ad (a) but the small print stated " ... 50% of all bath and shower profits go directly to the charity ...".

d. was headed "BATHING AND SHOWERING SOLUTIONS FROM HELP THE AGED WE WILL" and showed a shower and bath. The footnote stated " ... 50% of all bath and shower profits go directly to the charity ...".

Issue
Acorn Mobility Services Ltd challenged whether the claims:

1. "50% of all stairlift profits go directly to the charity" in ad (a);

2. "50 per cent of profits go to help the charity" in ad (b); and

3. " ... 50% of all bath and shower profits go directly to the charity ..." in ads (c) and (d)

were misleading and could be substantiated.

CAP Code
3.17.1
Response
1., 2. & 3.

Minivator Ltd (Minivator) said they had not meant to imply that 50% of all profits went to Help the Aged, but that 50% of profits generated through the brand "Help the Aged We Will" went to the charity. They sent a copy of the licensing contract with Age UK (the new name for Help the Aged) and a breakdown of how expenses were deducted from profits generated through the brand "Help the Aged We Will" and the money paid to Age UK. They said they would amend the ads to make clear that 50% of profits generated through those ads would go to the charity.

In addition, they sent a copy of a letter from an independent auditor that set out the details of the royalty payments Minivator made to Age UK in more detail, clarifying the percentage of gross sales from online sales advertising that went to the charity (excluding VAT and delivery) and explaining that for all other types of lead generation a sum equal to 50% of the gross margin minus specific costs and charges was paid to Age UK. Minivator said that, once expenses were deducted, the actual percentage of profits given to the charity generated through the Age UK advertising was closer to 60%.

Assessment
1., 2. & 3. Upheld

The ASA welcomed Minivators willingness to amend the ads. Moreover, we noted that through the licensing agreement, a significant amount of money was generated for the charity. However, because the ads did not make clear that the figure of 50% related only to profits generated through "Help the Aged We Will" branded advertising (excluding online sales), we concluded the ads were misleading.

Ads (a), (b), (c) and (d) breached CAP Code clauses 3.1 (Substantiation) and 7.1 (Truthfulness).

Action
The ads must not appear again in their current form.

Adjudication of the ASA Council (Non-broadcast)

Dolphin Stairlifts Western scoop top 'quality management' award

2010-08-26T17:14:00.000+01:00

GLOUCESTERSHIRE-wide disabled access firm Dolphin Stairlifts Western is celebrating after being awarded a top UK quality management certificate.

Company director Steve Wakefield picked up the accolade from Neil Urquhart of award-givers Certified Quality Systems Ltd yesterday, Tuesday, August 24.

Referred to as the ISO 9001 certificate, it is the international standard for which the quality management practices of a firm are evaluated – ensuring that Dolphin provides a consistent level of excellence in the goods and service its customers receive.

Specialising in the installation, repair and servicing of stairlifts, platform lifts, wheelchair lifts and step lifts, the family-run firm work extensively across Gloucestershire and the Five Valleys.

Dolphin Western is one of many local branches nationwide.

Visit http://www.dolphinlifts.co.uk/stairliftbranches.html to find your local branch or call 01275 818220 to speak to Dolphin Stairlifts Western direct.

Curved Stairlifts with 30 Stone lift capacity coming soon

2010-08-26T13:14:00.000+01:00

One of our stairlift suppliers is currently putting a heavy duty curved stairlift through UK compliance testing and hope to be able to release it to the market soon. If all goes well it may even be available before the end of the year.

We have already had plenty of interest from OT's and local authorities for this new 30 stone rated curved stairlift. If you would like further information when the lift becomes available please keep an eye on the blog or contact Christian Dunnage on 0800 9800 126. Alternatively send an email to info@dolphinlifts.co.uk and we will send you detailed info as soon as it becomes available.

Minivator to become Handicare Stairlifts

2010-08-26T13:03:00.000+01:00

Seems like Minivator Stairlifts will be changing their name to Handicare Stairlifts after all.

Handicare Stairlifts New Chair

2010-07-30T17:20:00.000+01:00

To see more pictures of the new Handicare Stairlifts chair, please visit our sister blog - Mobility Products for the Disabled.


New Stairlift Chair from Handicare

For more information on Handicare Stairlifts new chair please call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126.

Meditek Stairlifts - 25 stone Powered Hinge Track

2010-05-20T12:41:00.000+01:00

Meditek Stairlifts have a new heavy duty powered hinge track with a safe working load of 160kg/25 stone. This unique option is currently £300 more than the regular 19 stone rated hinge section. Available on straight Meditek Stairlifts only.

Stannah Reduced Stairlift Seat

2010-05-20T12:16:00.000+01:00

The reduced seat has been designed with the smaller customer in mind. This offers a lower spine-to-knee dimension, offering a more comfortable seating position for users under 5’ 3” (160cm) - enabling them to sit back safely and comfortably in the chair, whilst keeping their feet firmly on the footrest.

The whole Stannah Stairlifts range is available with a reduced seat.

New Dolphin Stairlifts website for Norfolk and Suffolk

2010-05-07T11:40:00.001+01:00

The new website is now online covering the East Anglia region of eastern England. So, if you need information on stairlifts in Bury St Edmunds, for example, you should contact the local branch on 0800 085 4143 or visit the new site.

Everton star gets a stairlift

2010-04-12T15:34:00.000+01:00

Crocked footie star Dan Gosling is the geri-hatrick of the Premier League – after getting a stairlift fitted in his home.

Minivator Stairlifts

2010-04-06T16:35:00.000+01:00

We have received the following clarification from Minivator.

Freelift are changing their name to Handicare from October this year as recently communicated by themselves, Minivator has not taken the decision to follow suit and still remain Minivator.

Minivator and Freelift to become Handicare Stairlifts

2010-03-29T10:51:00.000+01:00

Following the recent acquisition of Minivator Stairlifts by the Handicare group it seems the new entity will be branded Handicare Stairlifts from October 2010.

Handicare receive OFT approval for Minivator takeover

2010-03-29T10:11:00.001+01:00

Midlands based Stairlift manufacturer Minivator has signed a deal to become the latest addition to the Norwegian based healthcare company Handicare, it was confirmed today.

Following last week’s approval from the Office of Fair Trading, all the final documentation has been completed.

Outdoor Stairlifts for Curved Stairs

2010-03-26T12:07:00.000Z

A new addition to our product portfolio, the Hawle is the first stairlift that we have found with a modern design, which can be used on curved external staircases.

Individual configurations for individual solutions
Space-saving parking even in exceedingly narrow spaces
The Hawle stairlift can be installed in old and new buildings
Adapt your Hawle lift to your personal environment with a choice of colours
Appropriate for use as an external stairlift
The Hawle stairlift is also suitable for steep stairs with a gradient of up to 75°
The stairlift HW10 is the optimal solution for your curved staircase
Stairlift is certified to 150kg

If you need an outdoor curved stairlift then this is the lift for you. The Hawle stairlift is also certified to carry 150kg or 23.5 stone.For more details please call Dolphin Stairlifts on 0800 9800 126.

Caremore Stairlift Services Limited in Liquidation

2010-03-15T13:50:00.000Z

According to companies house Caremor Stairlift Services Limited have gone into Liquidation. More details to follow no doubt.

Ian Elford

2010-02-19T16:48:00.000Z

It is with great sadness that Dolphin Mobility have to announce the death of Ian Elford the former owner of Dolphin Lifts Kent.

Ian was a great friend to us all in the Dolphin Group of companies and will be sadly missed. Ian died after a 2 year battle against Leukaemia, at the age of 56. He kept his sense of humour until the very end. If anyone would like to donate to Leukaemia Research, please click on this link.

Disabled student hit by stairlift delays

2010-02-15T16:55:00.000Z

Coventry Telegraph - News - South Warwickshire News - Disabled student hit by Warwick District Council stairlift delays

Handicare Group to buy Minivator

2010-02-02T13:17:00.001Z

News broke yesterday that Handicare Group intends to buy Minivator Stairlifts.

http://www.growthbusiness.co.uk/news/mergers-and-acquisitions/1146038/gresham-sells-minivator-for-34-times-money.thtml

http://www.cityam.com/news-and-analysis/handicare-%C2%A344m-deal-private-equity-rush-continues

http://www.altassets.com/private-equity-news/article/nz17819.html

Stannah Stairlift Rail Colours

2010-01-21T13:16:00.000Z

Stannah 260 rails are now available in these colours as well as the standard pearl finish

Minivator Offset Footrest

2010-01-21T13:04:00.000Z

Minivator's Offset Footplate has been designed to reduce the track height on a small number of staircases. In some instances the stair configuration would mean that a stairlift with a standard footplate would have to have a high track height to avoid a clash with the stairs as the stairlift travels around a corner. Sometimes this may even mean that a stairlift cannot be fitted.

The Offset footplate has been specially designed for use in circumstances where a standard footplate or and it allows the height of the track to be reduced significantly by changing the position of the footplate. As the track height is reduced the offset Footplate can also offer increased bulkhead clearances.

Further to this, this footplate can also fit into narrower staircases, again allowing a stairlift to be installed where a standard unit would not fit.

For more information and prices please call Dolphin Stairlifts on 0800 9800 126.

New look Minivator stairlift

2010-01-21T12:50:00.000Z

Minivator's new seat offers a single seat solution designed to fit a greater range of users.

The seat is wider for added comfort, yet also has a reduced swivel radius, meaning it will fit into smaller narrower staircases and suits the needs of more clients.

The new seat will be supplied with Minivator's new innovative dual retractable inertia seat belt as standard. The belt can easily be secured at either one side or centrally using one or both hands, depending on the user's flexibility or preference. The new seat also has a redesigned manual swivel mechanism intended for users with limited strength and dexterity.

Meditek Stairlifts - Heavy Duty Powered Hinged Track

2010-01-13T15:48:00.000Z

UK stairlift manufacturer MediTek has developed a manual and powered - Heavy Duty Hinged Track for use on its straight stairlift range. The new Heavy Duty Hinge can now accommodate a safe working load of 160kg (25st) which is 40kg (6st) more than that of the standard hinge.

MediTek are confident they are the only UK manufacturer that can supply a fully compatible heavy duty powered hinge track for use on domestic stairlifts.

The new Heavy Duty Hinge is retrospectively upgradable and compatible with all other lift options and is available on all order. Please contact Dolphin Starlifts for more details.

Stannah Stairlifts - Curved Stairlift Rail Colours

2010-01-13T15:09:00.001Z

Dolphin Stairlifts can now offer five optional rail colours to make sure your new Stannah Stairlift blends perfectly into your home. The new colours are only available on the 260 model, and the chair and carriage will be in Pearl. The extra cost for this is approximately £500.

Please click the link to see a colour swatch of curved stairlift rail colours.

For more pdf's and information regarding several stairlift and mobility products please visit the Dolphin Stairlifts reference library. Alternatively, call us free on 0800 9800 126.

Stannah Stairlifts - Footrest Fold Button

2010-01-13T14:53:00.000Z

Stannah Stairlifts have introduced the option of a new footrest fold button on the arm of the Sofia and Solus chairs. Just one click is all it takes to fold and unfold the footrest independently of the seat and arms.

Family's fury at "high-pressure" sales to Marion, 89

2009-12-09T16:47:00.000Z

The family of an elderly woman living in Haworth are furious after she was targeted by a high-pressure salesman into parting with £100 for a stairlift she did not need.

For the full story visit thetelegraphandargus.co.uk

13 stairlift jobs risk

2009-12-02T09:39:00.000Z

nebusiness.co.uk - News - Business News - 13 stairlift jobs risk

STAIRLIFT manufacturer ThyssenKrupp is to rescope its business at Stockton, which will cease assembly of new products and concentrate instead on sales, marketing and service.

The news ends months of speculation that the German stairlift giant, part of the much larger global technology and steelmaking group ThyssenKrupp AG, was closing its UK subsidiary and consolidating production in mainland Europe. However the reorganisation will put 13 out of a total of 80 jobs at risk, the company confirmed today.

ThyssenKrupp, which continues to trade under the Lift Able brand bought from founder Jim Simmonds in March 2008 for around £9m, said it would continue to expand from its Stockton base, which was acquired as part of a strategy to get a foothold in the UK market for stairlifts - one of the biggest in the world.

Since buying into the country, the company has expanded the Lift Able product range to include curved and platform lifts and said its share grew at twice the market rate last year of 5% - at 12.5%. That was driven largely by public sector contracts in the care home and private housing sectors.

As a result the company said it was recruiting sales and marketing staff for its teams at Stockton and a smaller division in Warrrington, Cheshire. It would also continue to support an assembly team to meet the growing demand for reconditioned stairlifts, hundreds of which are stored at its Stockton plant. It had no plans to downsize the premises, which are on a long-term lease.

The reorganisation of Lift Able, part of ThyssenKrupp Accessibility division, coincides with plans revealed in the group’s generally downbeat annual results last week to streamline operations and cut costs. Although the group reported a loss of euro1.87 billion, compared with a net profit of euro2.3 billion the previous year, Accessibility emerged as one of the few segments that continued to build on a strong order book.

Plans to cut 5,000 jobs and sell divisions employing another 15,000 people would largely affect those employed in the conglomerate’s steelmaking operations.

nebusiness.co.uk - News - Business News - 13 stairlift jobs risk

2009-12-02T09:37:00.000Z

nebusiness.co.uk - News - Business News - 13 stairlift jobs risk

STAIRLIFT manufacturer ThyssenKrupp is to rescope its business at Stockton, which will cease assembly of new products and concentrate instead on sales, marketing and service.

Plans to cut 5,000 jobs and sell divisions employing another 15,000 people would largely affect those employed in the conglomerate’s steelmaking operations.

Outdoor Stairlifts

2009-11-27T15:16:00.000Z

The following UK stairlifts are suitable for outdoor use.

Stannah Outdoor Stairlifts

Minivator Outdoor Stairlifts

Meditek Outdoor Stairlifts

Stannah Stairlifts Announced as Superbrand

2009-11-20T14:01:00.000Z

Stannah Stairlifts has been announced as one of the UK’s leading brands in the 2009/10 Superbrands list – for the second year running.

Stannah has continued the trend from last year as the only company within the mobility industry to ever make it into the top 500, moving up the rankings by 25 places.

Dolphin Stairlifts are approved suppliers of Stannah Stairlifts products, installing and maintaining hundreds of stairlifts every year.

Freelift Stairlifts: Curved Stairlift Xmas Price Reduction

2009-11-19T14:32:00.000Z

Freelift Stairlifts supplied by Dolphin Mobility are currently available at heavily discounted prices. The cost of an automatic powered hinged stairlift rail is now the same as for a drop nose start (a saving of £400).

Additionally, if you have more than one bend in the stairs, the cost of one free 90 degree horizontal bend is now included in the price(a saving of £175).

All prices will be honoured on quotations completed before Christmas 2009, at which point, the prices will return to normal. Please call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 for more details or visit the Dolphin Stairlifts website.

Freelift Stairlifts: Christmas Cut Off Dates

2009-11-19T10:01:00.001Z

Freelift curved stairlift orders will need to be placed by Monday 30^th November to ensure delivery of your stairlift before Christmas.

Meditek Stairlifts to open US branch

2009-11-13T10:46:00.000Z

Visit www.gethampshire.co.uk for the full story

A FLEET-based stair lift company continues to climb new heights.

MediTek has seen exports exceed 30% of sales and is firmly on track to double its order book over the next two years.

It has also just opened a new regional office in Pennsylvania, USA.

Meditek Stairlifts are avilable in the UK from Dolphin Stairlifts.

Dolphin achieve Constructionline and CHAS accreditation

2009-10-15T10:11:00.000+01:00

Dolphin Mobility are pleased to announce the renewal of their Constructionline and CHAS accreditation.

Blog format

2009-10-12T12:03:00.000+01:00

Something seems to have gone wrong with the blog. Please bear with me as I try to correct it.

Freelift Stairlift Environment Movie ISO 14001

2009-10-12T11:46:00.003+01:00

Freelift is the first stairlift company in the field to be awarded the ISO 14001:2004 environmental management certificate. Across the Freelift system, there is a recognition that climate change may have long-term implications for their business and supply chain. Their business system has a role to play in ensuring they use the best possible mix of energy sources whilst improving the energy efficiency of the manufacturing processes. Working with Freelift means you can rely on goods and services which are manufactured with the deepest environmental responsibility to the highest quality standards.

•Freelift also holds the ISO 9001:2000 quality management certificate. All of their products are tested and approved by worldwide independent inspection services. This gives users the assurance that all products meet the highest standards in terms of quality, safety, comfort and design and are manufactured with corporate, social, and environmental responsibility.

•Freelift consider ISO quality more than just a word or goal. It is a world recognized symbol of excellence that guarantees quality products whilst respecting environmental implications. At Freelift, it is just another step toward achieving total customer satisfaction.

Freelift products can be purchased from Dolphin Stairlifts.

#Stairlift Prices

2009-10-09T16:35:00.003+01:00

If you need a stairlift and are struggling to get a straight answer from firms as to how much it will actually cost, then you should probably check out Dolphin's stairlift prices calculator.

Who will mend the Vale Stairlifts?

2009-10-08T18:00:00.001+01:00

This article is taken from the Vale Mail.

The Council no longer repairs stairlifts that it has installed, Vale’s 2005 Group heard at its meeting tonight.

CVCHA Chief Executive Peter Richmond said that his organisation has got to decide whether or not to take on the responsibility that the City Council used to have for maintaining stairlifts. “We have some difficult decisions,” he told the meeting. “The ageing population of Castle Vale is likely to need more stairlifts in the future. If we take on responsibilities that the council can no longer afford, we may have to transfer money from other sources. This is where the recession really starts to bite.”
He said that they would not want a situation to arise where a broken stairlift might mean that an elderly person has to live on the groundfloor and use a commode because they are unable to get to the toilet upstairs.

#Stairlift Parts

2009-10-05T12:16:00.002+01:00

Do you have an old stairlift which requires servicing? Have you been told that your stairlift is obsolete? Why not ask Dolphin if they can help? Dolphin have a huge stockpile of second hand stairlifts and stairlift parts which could save you hundreds of pounds. Call 0800 9800 126 for more details.

Who can get a Disabled Facilities Grant?

2009-09-24T17:49:00.001+01:00

A grant can be used for adaptations to give you better freedom of movement into and around your home and/or to provide essential facilities within it.

If you are disabled, acceptable types of work include:

widening doors and installing ramps
providing or improving access to rooms and facilities - for example, by installing a stair lift or providing a downstairs bathroom
improving or providing a heating system which is suitable for your needs
adapting heating or lighting controls to make them easier to use
improving access to and movement around the home to enable you to care for another person who lives in the property, such as a child

An occupational therapist will look at your circumstances and can recommend the type of adaptation(s) needed.

For more information plase visit the directgov.co.uk website

New Meditek Stairlifts from £1395 installed

2009-09-24T13:47:00.003+01:00

Dolphin Mobility are delighted to announce details of a huge price reduction on new Meditek Stairlifts.

One of the best stairlifts on the market can now be fully installed for only £1395 with a 12 month warranty. Call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 for a free no obligation quote.

A stairlift could cost as little to run as 1.3p per day

2009-09-24T13:36:00.002+01:00

Mobility aids can give elderly or disabled people a new lease of life; allowing them the freedom to move alone, and to stay independent in their own home for longer. Every senior citizen should consider how the use of a mobility aid could make their life easier, and safer. But many worry about the hidden costs of stairlifts, so here is some data which should help them breathe easier.

A stairlift could cost as little to run as 1.3p per day, which comes in at under £5 per year! When you compare the cost of running a stairlift to other household items (at ukpower.co.uk)

it becomes apparent that the cost to run a Stannah Stairlift is really nothing to worry about. A lightbulb costs £14 per year, a washing machine double that. A tumble dryer can cost up to £60 to run for a year, and a television around £20. These stats are based on average usage according to the calculator at ukpower.co.uk, and on seven return journeys in the stairlift.

Many people put off making adaptations to their homes, wondering if they might be leaving sometime soon. Elderly and disabled people will be forced to leave their home if it becomes difficult to get around, so making home improvements, including installing a Stannah Stairlift, is one of the best ways to make their home easily navigable again. The stairlifts work by charging a battery at the top and bottom of the stairs, so you’ll never find yourself stranded in the middle of the stairs and out of juice. As the data above proves, the expense to run a stairlift is pretty measly, so the only cost you need to worry about is the initial spend on the stairlift and it’s installation.

New Stannah Stair Lifts from £1795

2009-09-02T12:45:00.002+01:00

To see the full selection of Stannah Stairlifts please visit the Dolphin Lifts website.

Axe fear at stairlift firm

2009-08-27T17:39:00.000+01:00

This article can be found at nebusiness.co.uk

THE future of around 90 Teesside workers is in doubt today after it emerged ThyssenKrupp is scaling back production of its straight stair lifts in Stockton.

The German giant, which took over the facility last year after buying family-owned manufacturer Lift Able, will cease production of its battery powered Cumbria lift from September 25.

But the move may not lead to redundancies, as a new product is being lined up to fill the gap. The mains-powered Cumbria unit will also continue to be produced on Teesside.

ThyssenKrupp, however, refused to rule out the prospect of redundancies.

“This is a decision which has not been taken yet,” a spokesperson from the firm’s elevators division said. “A new product will be coming in, but we cannot say which product or when.”

One of the world’s biggest manufacturers of escalators and elevators, ThyssenKrupp bought Lift Able in March, 2008.

ThyssenKrupp saw the move as an opportunity to expand its UK operations and strengthen its presence in a UK market which employs more than 12,000 people and saw 267,750 lifts installed in 2008, according to the European Lift Association (ELA).

But this is only a fraction of the 4.96m lifts installed across Europe last year, with Italy the biggest single market. There were only 7,079 new lifts installed in the UK in 2008, with a commercial value of 473m euros.

ThyssenKrupp declined to comment on sales volumes of the Cumbria DC unit or revenues derived from its UK-based transactions.

Lift Able was one of Europe’s five largest manufacturers of straight stair-lifts, with a turnover of more than £10m when it was sold in March 2008.

The company specialised in the manufacture, supply and maintenance of stairlifts and disabled access solutions to domestic and public buildings and was a major supplier to local authorities and the NHS.

In 2007 Lift Able won a Green Apple Environment Award for its commitment to the environment and for sourcing materials from local suppliers.

Teesside is home to several companies in the mobility sector including independent lift maker Pickerings Lifts in Stockton.

Founded in 1854, the company specialises in the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of lifts and earlier this year won a contract to install three lifts in the grade 1 listed Crockfords Casino in central London.

The venue is the world’s oldest private gaming club founded in 1828 and owned by Genting Stanley Ltd, which operates more than 40 branded casinos throughout the UK.

Dolphin Lifts on Twitter

2009-08-27T16:46:00.000+01:00

Follow Dolphin Lifts updates on twitter - http://twitter.com/dolphinlifts

Travellers evicted from stairlift factory site

2009-08-27T16:34:00.002+01:00

Staff arrived at Acorn Stairlifts, at the Millennium Business Park in Steeton, near Keighley, to see the car park taken over by 20 caravans.

http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/4564201.Travellers_evicted_from_factory_site/

http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/Travellers-defy-barriers-as-they.5582895.jp

Meditek Stairlifts Naidex 2009

2009-08-27T16:22:00.001+01:00

External Stairlifts Video

2009-08-27T16:21:00.002+01:00

Cash-strapped home conversion schemes in chaos

2009-08-12T09:40:00.002+01:00

LOCAL AUTHORITY home conversion grants for people with disabilities and older people are in chaos around the country as applications far exceed the funding provided by central Government.

Funding for the grants, for vital works such as wheelchair ramps and stair lifts, is at least €22 million short of what is needed by local authorities around the country.

Visit the Irish Times website for the full story.

Stairlifts - Straight & Curved

2009-07-01T15:10:00.002+01:00

There are two types of stairlift. Straight and curved. The first is designed for use on straight staircases. The footrest of the stairlift will stop level with the top stair. It may be possible to use a straight stairlift on some configurations of curved stairs.

For example if you have a straight staircase with three steps at the top which wind onto the landing, then a folding platform stairlift could be the solution. A straight stairlift is installed with extended legs at the top of the rail, so the footrest stops in line with the landing. A platform is then built around the foot rest of the stairlift. The platform can then be used to walk safely onto the landing. The platform is hinged so that it can be folded back against the wall to enable other people in the house to use the stairs.

The option of a powered platform is available which means the user doesn't need to bend down to raise it. The following video features the automatic powered folding platform manufactured by Meditek.

The folding platform option is not suitable for everyone. If the user of the stairlift is prone to dizzy spells or feinting or if you have very poor mobility this is not a viable option. Seek independent advice from more than one source.

The second, far more expensive type of stair lift, is a 'made to measure' or 'curved track stairlift' which can travel around bends on the stairs and can be designed to run on to the landing. Prices will vary according to the length of the rail required, the number of bends and the complexity of the bends.

It is worth noting that although far more expensive, the resale value of curved stairlifts is negligible, because the rail is made to measure and can only be used again on an identical staircase.

Curved track stairlifts can now be installed on the inside bend or the outside bend of the stairs. The layout of your staircase will determine which is most suitable.

If you need a curved track stairlift you will have to pay a deposit to the company that you are dealing with. This will normally be about 30% of the cost of the stairlift. The deposit is required because the company are committing themselves to building a stair lift rail that will only fit into your house. You should not have to pay a large deposit if you order a standard straight lift as these can usually be adapted to suit another staircase.

For stairs with a well sized half-landing it may be possible to install two straight stairlifts.

Secondhand stairlifts

2009-07-01T15:03:00.003+01:00

For only £900 Dolphin Lifts will install a straight reconditioned stairlift into your home. This excellent offer includes a 2 year parts and labour warranty.

Call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 to arrange a free no obligation quote today.

Heavy Duty Stairlift - 30 stone weight capacity

2009-05-29T15:22:00.003+01:00

The Homeadapt Elite has recently increased the user weight limit to 30 stone on their straight stairlift. This is the highest weight limit available. Call Dolphin on 0800 9800 126 for more details.

No takers for Stair Lift

2009-05-29T15:13:00.000+01:00

The following article appeared on www.pressandjournal.co.uk/

A GRIEVING son who has given away practically everything in his mother’s house cannot persuade anyone to take the most expensive item.

Richard Mechen, 61, of Bennachie Avenue, Inverurie, has contacted numerous charities since the death of his 91-year-old mother, Helen, in February, to ask if they wanted a stair lift worth thousands of pounds.

He has not heard back from any of them.

He said: “We have given away practically everything in her house. Her church, The Church of Scotland, took the lion’s share. She was forever giving little bits and pieces to her church but she didn’t really attend due to ill health in the end.

“The biggest and most expensive item in her house is the one that is giving us the most problems.

“I’ve contacted charities by e-mail but have not even had a response. I’m amazed.

“It was my father who needed it initially but he died a considerable time ago. It was serviced a couple of years ago and is still in good working order. Surely someone would be glad of it. They’re not cheap,” he added.

Anyone interested in the stair lift, which is in the house in Kincorth, Aberdeen, where Mrs Mechen lived before her death, should call Mr Mechen on 01467 623515.

Three men in a boat (or is that canoe?)

2009-04-16T17:19:00.005+01:00

100-mile charity effort in aid of motor neurone disease

Three men in a boat plan to paddle more than 100 miles for charity despite the fact that none of them have any experience on the water.

Friends Cliff Elbourne, 42, Rob Hammond, 33 and Dave Simm, 26, plan to set off in a tiny Canadian canoe from Buckingham on April 25 and follow the River Great Ouse down through Bedfordshire, across The Fens and out into the North Sea through The Wash in Norfolk.

None of the men have ever stepped into a canoe before, but are willing to rough the choppy spring waters in order to raise £5,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MND).

Mr Elbourne, landlord of Ye Three Fishes pub in Turvey, said: "We have no previous experience in a canoe, but we are spending the month before we set off practicing.

"It's still quite daunting, but we can all swim and we have life jackets."

The trio chose to raise money for the MND Association after their friend Colin Knight was diagnosed with the condition a few years ago.

Mr Elbourne added: "I have a very good friend in the village who has Motor Neurone Disease and it has really been brought to my attention.

"Two or three years ago before it happened to him I would not have known anything about Motor Neurone Disease so this is about raising money and awareness too.

"We are aiming for £5,000, as that would buy two stairlifts for somebody. The hardest thing is sufferers are still the same mentally but they lose mobility, which when you are used to doing something is really hard.

"This will be a task for us, but because we are physically able, we should give it a go."

The trio plan to complete the adventure in five to six days, stopping off at Ye Three Fishes on April 25 for a fundraising bon voyage party.

As well as the hog roast, live music and a raffle, the pub has organised a charity auction with lots including goodie bags from record label EMI, signed Radio 1 merchandise and Bodyflight experiences.

The canoe will also be auctioned off after the fundraising adventure is complete.

Anyone who would like to sponsor the trio can do so by visiting www.justgiving.co.uk/canoetheouse

Facts about MND:

1) MND is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks the upper and lower motor neurones and weakens the muscles.

2) It can affect the use of your arms, legs, speech and respiratory system as bodily functions disintegrate, with the nerve cells being destroyed.

3) Approximately three people a day die of MND in the UK.

4) Approximately 5,000 individuals in the UK live with MND.

5) Approximately three people in the UK are diagnosed with MND every day.

By Paul Fisher http://www.bedfordtoday.co.uk

Changing Places

2009-04-08T13:02:00.000+01:00

The Changing Places Consortium has launched a campaign on behalf of the thousands of people with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their carers, and the many other disabled people who cannot use standard accessible toilets.

They need Changing Places toilets. These are toilets with enough space for disabled people and their carers, and the right equipment, including a height adjustable changing bench and a hoist.

There are almost no public Changing Places toilets in the UK. Providing these toilets in public places would make a dramatic difference to the lives of thousands of people who desperately need these facilities. Sometimes you just need to change one thing to open up a world of possibility.

The time for change is NOW.

For more information on the campaign go to http://www.changing-places.org/

Stairlift factory closes with loss of 80 jobs

2009-03-30T17:56:00.002+01:00

This article appears on the www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/ website.

A NORTH-EAST factory which makes stairlifts is to close with the loss of 80 jobs, it was revealed last night.

The revelation that the Bison Bede plant, in Consett, County Durham will cease production with immediate effect was said to be a “massive blow” for Derwentside and the wider North-East manufacturing sector.

The decision was announced yesterday by Bison Bede’s parent company Acorn Stairlifts, after a 30-day consultation period. Although the plant has a forward order book of about £1.4m, work which will now be distributed around other factories in the Acorn group.

The move comes despite efforts from the GMB union and constituency MP Hilary Armstrong to preserve employment in the area.

Last night, the 80 workers at the plant were made redundant, although it is understood there are 20 jobs on offer at Acorn’s plant in Scotland, with workers being offered bus transport back to the North-East on weekends. It was unclear how many workers had opted to take up the proposal.

The factory has been a key employer in Consett since 1981, at its peak employing about 200 people at its base on the town’s Number 1 Industrial Estate. Its offers a range of stairlifts and mobility products, designed to aid independent living at home.

Gail Johnson, regional organiser for the GMB, said yesterday’s decision comes as a blow to the area, adding: “We’ve been in consultation for 30 days, but it is a blow to learn the plant is definitely going to close. It has been really successful and has orders for about £1.4m for this year, but that work is now going to be given to other factories outside the North-East.

“We understand that’s because there’s more space at the other sites. This area is being massively hit by job losses, and these are more jobs going that Derwentside can ill afford.”

No one from parent company Acorn Mobility was available for comment last night.

Bison Bede was acquired by Acorn, a rival stairlift manufacturer, in November 2007, although there were no changes made to the Consett operation.

Previously, the company affirmed its commitment to the North-East by revealing it had rejected options to relocate to Korea, and invested £1m in manufacturing equipment at the plant.

Stannah Curved Stairlift

2009-03-25T13:09:00.002Z

A video of the curved stairlift with powered hinge rail manufactured by Stannah and available from Dolphin Lifts in the UK.

Heavy Duty Stairlifts - 28.5 Stone Weight Limit

2009-03-24T10:59:00.003Z

The Homeadapt or Bruno Elite represents more than a decade of research and engineering by Bruno Independent Living Aids, the US market leader in high-quality stairlifts. A Homeadapt stairlift from Bruno means innovative design, unparalleled performance and a new life in the home you love!

The Bruno Elite is a truly Heavy Duty Stairlift and is more robust than any other stairlift currently on sale in the UK. Visit the Dolphin website for more details or call 0800 9800 126.

Stairlift Jargon

2009-03-20T15:30:00.003Z

Stairlift jargon explained:
Hinged Rail Stairlifts
Swivel Seat Stairlift Chairs

Reconditioned Stairlifts - £900 with 2yr warranty

2009-03-19T15:25:00.005Z

Over the last few years prices of new stairlifts have fallen considerably. It is now possible to buy a new stairlift for around the same price that a second hand lift would have been 10 or 15 years ago. Consequently many perfectly serviceable stairlifts are being scrapped.

For a limited time Dolphin Lifts will supply and install a straight reconditioned stairlift in the South-East of England for £900.00, including a 2 year parts and labour warranty (Office Hours Service). Click on the links below for more details.

Reconditioned Meditek Stairlift

Reconditioned Stannah Stairlift

Reconditioned Minivator Stairlift

Minivator Outdoor Stairlift

2009-03-17T16:05:00.004Z

Some stair lifts are suitable for use in external locations and can be particularly useful for improving access to homes with several steps to the point of entrance.

The Minivator Outdoor Stairlift comes with a manual swivel seat and features remote controls and a key isolation switch.

The luxury seat has slate grey upholstery and the unit also has a waterproof stairlift cover for added protection.

The Minivator Outdoor Stairlift is suitable for use only on straight staircases.

Stannah 260 Curved Stairlift - powered hinge video

2009-03-16T16:13:00.002Z

This video shows the powered hinge operation of the Stannah curved stairlift. Available from Stannah and selected distributor's such as Dolphin Stair Lifts.

Meditek Straight Stairlifts

2009-03-13T16:13:00.002Z

The Meditek Straight Stairlift is available from selected distributor's in the UK such as Dolphin Stairlifts.

Stannah Stairlifts - Sofia 2 way powered swivel on straight stairlift

2009-03-10T13:13:00.001Z

This video shows the 2 way powered swivel seat operation of the Stannah Sofia straight stairlift. Available from Stannah and selected distributor's such as Dolphin Stairlifts.

Stannah Stairlifts - Sofia powered swivel on straight stairlift

2009-03-10T13:08:00.002Z

This video shows the powered swivel seat operation of the Stannah Sofia straight stairlift. Available from Stannah and selected distributor's such as Dolphin Stairlifts.

Stannah Stairlifts - Sofia manual swivel on straight stairlift

2009-03-10T13:02:00.002Z

This video shows the manual swivel seat operation of the Stannah Sofia straight stairlift. Available from Stannah and selected distributor's such as Dolphin Stairlifts.

Stairlifts - New

2009-02-27T11:31:00.006Z

For a limited time Dolphin Mobility are able to supply and install a new Minivator Simplicity 950 Series stairlift for only £1399, provided it is on a straight staircase and there is a nearby power point.

Alternatively, if you prefer the looks of the Brooks Lincoln Stairlifts, the price is the same. The Brooks Stairlift is the same as the Acorn Stairlifts that you may have seen advertised.

Should you be unsure as to the suitability of either of these stairlifts, or are in any doubt as to whether it will fit your stairs, Dolphin will happily arrange for a sales advisor to call and discuss their entire range with you.

Please note that this special price only applies if you do not need a sales advisor to call.

Navy widow gets lift from forces group

2009-02-27T11:17:00.004Z

Navy widow Joan Britton has thanked a forces charity for buying her a stairlift after she was forced to climb to bed on her hands and knees.

The 79-year-old has a new lease of life now she can use her £5,000 stairlift paid for by SSAFA Forces Help.

To read the full article as it appears on portsmouth.co.uk click here.

Dolphin's John Petty rewarded for firefighting effort

2009-02-24T14:21:00.004Z

John Petty, the owner of Dolphin Stairlifts North Yorkshire branch, has been honoured for 20 years of service as a retained firefighter.

John Petty, right, with Chief Fire Officer Simon Pilling

Click here to read the Keighley News article

Henry VIII used his very own 'stairthrone'

2009-02-17T14:26:00.001Z

Henry VIII is perhaps best known for his six wives and founding the Church of England.

But a leading academic has revealed that the bloated Tudor monarch has another claim to fame: inventing the stairlift.

David Starkey, well known for his TV documentaries on historical royals, discovered that Henry VIII used a bespoke 'stairthrone' during research.

Described in royal records as 'a chair...that goeth up and down', the stairlift is thought to have been operational at Whitehall Palace in London where it would have hauled the King up a 20ft staircase.