We have recently reviewed services offered by The Jennifer Trust, in the light of experience, development of services available elsewhere, and other considerations.
With concerns about swine flu, especially given the vulnerability of children with SMA to respiratory infections, we have decided that for the time being we will not continue to loan out equipment that has been advertised until now via the website and information sheets. The cough assist and suction equipment loaned out by The Jennifer Trust was originally offered on a temporary trial basis to help families to persuade their local Health Service to provide them. This equipment is more readily available nowadays from local Health Services. In areas where this is not the case, our Outreach Workers can help by liaising with local Health Services.
Experience with car seats and specialised prams or pushchairs suggests that children`s needs vary so much that they can be much better provided for by individual assessment and the provision of equipment tailor-made to their needs.
Grants for equipment for children are currently available from a number of charities (please contact the office for details). Currently, thanks to Tesco Charity of the Year funding, The Joseph Patrick Foundation is able to fully fund equipment for people under 19. We suggest families seek advice about suitable equipment, based on individual assessment, from their local Occupational Therapists (with help from The Jennifer Trust if required) and then apply to relevant charities.
We will review the position in due course.
Please note: This does not affect the loans of multi-sensory toy packs which are still made available for Type 1 babies.
Please contact the Jennifer Trust office for any further details. | 
