Full membership of Assist UK is open to organisations that meet the minimum criteria summarised here. Application Forms are available from our offices. When we receive an application, we arrange to visit the centre or service to undertake a supporting assessment. Full, accredited membership carries full voting rights.

• Equipment information, service and advice must be free and ethical

• The general public must have direct access to the service. Opening times or hours of provision are realistic, regular and well publicised.

• The Disability Living Centre or service should actively involve and include disabled people, other service users and carers in all aspects of its service provision.

• An equal opportunities policy that includes disability equality is in operation or under development, and that the centre or service welcomes all members of their communities within the client remit of that centre or service.

• The service is based on a representative range of products, services and solutions for daily living that is: relevant to the local community’s needs and existing resources; up to date; well represented and maintained. Any display facilities provided should ensure easy access for demonstration. • Information about equipment and services are: accessible; accurate; up to date; relevant to users needs.

• Accurate and up to date information is recorded about service provision and uptake.

• Suitably trained staff and/or volunteers are available during the centre’s opening hours to provide: information; advice; assessments (where appropriate), and/or to provide services in the community.

• Staff and/or volunteers ensure that they work in partnership with users to provide information, advice and assessment services which enable informed choices.

• The service must adhere to and uphold all Assist UK standards agreed by members • The centre or service must have a mission statement and quality assurance procedures in place.

• The Disability Living Centre or service is well publicised to the community it serves.

• Assist UK imagery is used in publicity and promotional material about the service wherever possible.

Assist UK will provide further guidance to assist those organisations wishing to develop their facilities to meet national quality standards for product information, service and advice.

Our Mission

To work towards the day when products and services for independent living are seen as part of everyday life, and to lead a UK wide network of centres and services that introduce people to products and solutions which make life easier and safer, creating greater choice and control.