Did you know that March 1st marks International Wheelchair Day?

This annual event celebrates the independence and mobility that wheelchairs provide, recognising their life-changing impact.

With over one million people in the UK alone relying on wheelchairs, this day serves as an important reminder of the need for high-quality wheelchair provision, as well as the millions globally who still lack access to one.

At CECOPS, we understand that the right wheelchair is not just a piece of equipment—it is the key to dignity, independence, safety and quality of life. Imagine the limitations you would face if you had difficulty walking and had no access to a wheelchair. The right provision is critical, and that’s why at CECOPS, every day is a wheelchair day as we work tirelessly to improve services and standards.

Leading the Way in supporting Wheelchair Provision

CECOPS is at the forefront of ensuring that wheelchair users receive safe, high-quality, and effective services. Our commitment to best practices in wheelchair provision extends across the UK and internationally. Here’s how we are making a difference:

✅ Authored the first-ever outcomes-based quality framework and standards for planning, commissioning, and provision of services—applicable both in the UK and globally.

✅ Established an independent, not-for-profit standards and accreditation body for all assistive technology services, including wheelchair provision—now working with most areas in the UK.

✅ Introduced the first-ever criteria for grading wheelchair services, improving outcomes and driving continuous improvements.

✅ Developed iCOPS®, the first-ever self-assessment and continuous improvement tool for wheelchair services—covering planning, commissioning, and provision.

✅ Created CPD-certified training courses for wheelchair procurement and provision, as well as other assistive technologies.

✅ Currently embedding the first-ever wheelchair-specific outcomes into commissioning, provider, and clinical systems to ensure measurable improvements.

And here’s something remarkable—we’ve achieved all of this without any external funding. Our passion for improving wheelchair provision drives everything we do.

Join Us in Driving Change

International Wheelchair Day is a time to celebrate progress, but also to recognise the challenges that remain. We are eager to collaborate with international partners to enhance wheelchair provision globally—because there is no need to reinvent the wheel!

If you’re interested in learning how CECOPS can support your organisation or want more information, get in touch today.

📩 support@cecops.org.uk | 📞 07511667330 | 🌍 www.cecops.org.uk