Transforming Community Equipment Services (TCES)

The 'Retail Model' for Simple Aids to Daily Living

Changing the way social care is provided

Transforming Community Equipment Services aims to change the way that disabled and older people receive simple aids to help with daily living through the introduction of the ‘Retail Model’. This is just a small part of a wider scheme called Personalisation Agenda intended to change the way social care is provided giving people more choice and control over the services they receive.

See Personalisation Agenda (external link) for more information.

Introduction of the 'Retail Model' in Haringey

The ‘Retail Model’ which launched in Haringey in 2011, is a joint initiative between Haringey Council and North Central London NHS. Its aim is to improve access to simple items of equipment such as bathing aids and raised toilet seats, which can play a significant role in helping people lead more independent lives.

With the new system in place, following as assessment of need by a health or social care professional, a prescription will be provided which can be exchanged for ‘simple aids to daily living’ at any of the local retailers.

• See the  Haringey Accredited Retailers list - July 2020 (PDF, 413KB)

To provide greater choice and flexibility, there is an option to ‘top up’ or ‘up-grade’ to an item that meets the same need but is more pleasing, for which the individual would pay the difference in the cost of the items.

This new way of accessing simple equipment also provides the opportunity for any person, including those who are not eligible for services to go to a local ‘accredited retailer’ and buy their own simple items of equipment to help them or someone else maintain their independence.

Further information

If you would like more information or wish to request an assessment please contact First Response Team:

• Tel: 020 8489 1400
  Opening Hours 9am - 5pm, Monday - Friday
• Email: Firstresponseteam@haringey.gov.uk
• Write to
  First Response Team
  London Borough of Haringey
  2nd Floor, River Park House
• 225 High Road
  Wood Green
  N22 7TR
  One of our dedicated team of Community Care Officers will be pleased to assist with your enquiry.
• Web: Visit Haricare (external link) - the online directory of services for adults

For more information on how to get equipment to assist with daily living please see:

• Equipment to help you with daily living (PDF, 480KB)
• Haringey Simple Aids Equipment (PDF, 78KB)

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