I’ve put together our latest updates, and insights to keep you informed and engaged. From details on upcoming events, including the dates for our next Service User Engagement Forum, to helpful tips from our engineering team.
Over the past year, improvements have been made to referral and triage processes, waiting list management and the use of virtual assessments, helping the service make more effective use of resources while maintaining a focus on timely access to assessments and equipment...
We would love to share with you the story of a chap called Ken Powell. Some of you may have heard of Ken, but for those who haven’t, his story is one of the most inspirational you will ever hear.
Ken Powell is a member of North Foreland GC. Encouraged by his Dad, Ken started to play when he was 12 around Ramsgate, before attaining his first full handicap at 14. Ken played in teams for Kent Boys and Kent Youth, and aged 16, he travelled up to play in the British Boys’ Championship at Royal Liverpool in 1974.
In June 2025, the Kent Cricket Foundation welcomed its first-ever Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Project Officer, Gabriella Rolls. Working within the community team, Gabby’s mission is to ensure that cricket, both as a spectator sport and a physical activity, is accessible to everyone in Kent, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Come along and have your say at our next Service User Engagement Forum. We will discuss our usual topics, and of course, you will have the chance to share any feedback or recent experiences you’ve had with our service...
I am Lauren Gills, a Band 4 Occupational Therapy Assistant with over 12 years of experience working within the Kent and Medway Wheelchair Service.
My career began as a Nursery Nurse in a special needs school and nursery setting, where I supported children who used wheelchairs. Although transitioning into wheelchair services initially presented new challenges, it quickly became a role I was passionate about and one in which I have continued to develop extensive knowledge and expertise.
Leigh has recently transitioned from the workshop into the role of Field Service Engineer, and he has embraced this new position with a positive attitude and exceptional professionalism. He has quickly adapted to the demands of the role and is already making a significant impact.
It was great to join Emily and Sarah at the Kidz to Adultz event at the Farnborough Airport Exhibition Centre on 12/05/26. What a fantastic event with so many exhibitors, organisations, and of course service users all coming together under one roof. Events like these are such a valuable opportunity to share information, make connections, and celebrate the amazing support available for disabled children, young people, and adults. Already looking forward to attending again next year!
- Clive Bassant
Community Liaison and Engagement Officer
One of the UK’s largest free events dedicated to children and young people with disabilities and additional needs is returning to the South this spring – and celebrating 25 years of supporting families along the way. Kidz to Adultz South will take place at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre on Tuesday 12th May 2026, welcoming families, carers and professionals from across the region for a day of expert advice, practical support and inclusive opportunities.
The Kent and Medway Wheelchair Service is committed to supporting the health, wellbeing, and social inclusion of wheelchair users across our communities.
