Decision:
Susan Gibbons, a member of the North Herts Multiple Sclerosis Society, thanked the Chairman for the opportunity to address the Committee regarding their grant application for an innovative exercise bike for North Herts Physio Group.
The Chairman thanked Sue for her presentation.
Minutes:
Audio recording – Start time of Item – 32 minutes 20 seconds
Susan Gibbons, a member of the North Herts Multiple Sclerosis Society, thanked the Chairman for the opportunity to address the Committee regarding their grant application for an innovative exercise bike for North Herts Physio Group.
Sue informed Members of the following:
· The bike was recommended by their physio who had 30 years’ experience in neuro and physiotherapy and had been working with the group for over 25 years.
· The bike provided bilateral and symmetrical exercise which enabled mobility, strengthening and coordination for both upper and lower limbs. The stability of the design offered more support to a greater range of users including those who had limited movement or spasms.
· Motivational aspects were included within the programmes which would further enhance the benefits of users, encouraging symmetry and motivation to go further or faster.
· The company which provided the bike demonstrated its capabilities at one of the physio sessions and the members were very impressed.
· Each physio session was attended by individuals of mixed ability, including wheelchair users.
· Their physio was supported by a volunteer, retired physio and two pilates instructors (one of whom was also occupational therapy trained).
· The physio, in addition to other activities, was offered to their members.
· The Society was reliant on fundraising as it payed for literally everything. Funds were mainly sourced from donations and flag day participation throughout North Herts during the year.
· Tesco had kindly made a donation towards the bike.
· David Martin, CEO of the MS Trust would be attending a club meeting with a view to developing links with regard to training of health professionals, research, pamphlets and they had their own, informative magazine called Open Door.
· The Society had its own magazines and newsletter.
In response to questions from Members Sueadvised that:
· The bike was going to be used once a week at Hadleigh and there was a high possibility that they would be able to expand the number of days and venues. Hadleigh was a central location and the costs were low. Transport would be required to move the bike between locations.
· Hadleigh was social supported living accommodation and was secured by codes. The bike was locked in a cupboard and if anyone were to attempt to take it, they would need to make a lot of noise.
· Non-MS Society members who had MS could still approach the Society with a view to being a part of the sessions.
· A grant committee provided funding for various items of equipment to help members and non-MS Society members who might not be able to get these from Adult Services. The grant team dealt with any incoming requests on merit and in order of priority. Donations could also be made towards specialised equipment.
· This service was advertised on the website.
· The number of people who would benefit from the use of the bike would vary as their needs and abilities differ. The bike could also be programmed for each individual.
· Each new person would be assessed by the physio to assess why they were seeking physio, the problems they had and a treatment plan would be decided upon. Each session would be supervised.
· Attendance varied between sessions but there were usually around 25 people. It was also used as a social event. Lunch could also be provided, at a cost of £3, for members of the Society who wished to participate after their physio session. The funds raised would go towards a lunch in August.
· The qualified staff were self-employed and payments were submitted to the Society.
· The pro-rata calculations were worked out based on the numbers from each particular area. There were 30 people from Hitchin and the Hitchin area, 29 from Letchworth, 16 from Royston and 11 from the Baldock committee in addition to volunteers from Gravely and Weston.
· The funding of £12,720 was partly for the bike which was £4,800 and the remainder was for running costs of the bike over an 11 month period.
The Chairman thanked Sue for her presentation.