Overview

• Whizz Kidz closed its waiting list for the first time in 35 years after unprecedented pressure on its specialist wheelchair service.
• The charity reports applications rising about 12.5% year on year, citing tighter NHS eligibility and more rejections for specialist equipment.
• The Childhood Can’t Wait appeal targets £750,000 immediately and £3.6m over three years to cut waits and clear the backlog.
• Figures seen by the Independent show 1,676 children waited over three months for NHS wheelchair services, 875 had high or specialist needs, and 1,700 were judged not to require equipment.
• A survey of 626 families found 74% reported loss of independence, 69% missed friendships or school activities, and 60% experienced discomfort or pain, while average chairs cost around £4,800 and inflation is pushing prices up.