A one-stop-shop for older and disabled people, The Lifestyle Centre (TLC) provides expert assessment, trusted advice and person-centred solutions to enhance quality of life.
A joint project between charity Age UK Notts and community interest company Advantage Mobility, the centre offers a vast range of products and services, boasting one of the largest mobility showrooms in the East Midlands.
It also has a fully equipped and professionally staffed workshop to carry out repairs and servicing.
How The Lifestyle Centre came into being
The founder of The Lifestyle Centre and former chief executive of Age UK Notts, Mick Tinkler, spoke about the lack of a trusted, helpful assisted living and product centre for older and disabled people in Nottingham until TLC was created.
Mick said: “The Lifestyle Centre was established because I was aware that several vulnerable older people in Nottingham had been exploited by retailers who pressure-sell products at inflated prices, as well as mis-sell because they fail to undertake a thorough assessment and offer poor or inaccurate advice.
“As a powered wheelchair user, when I purchased my first mobility scooter, I was horrified at the experience which included retailers who failed to carry out an assessment of my needs, providers who gave poor advice and equipment that was overpriced.
“The Lifestyle Centre was also established because of concerns that people have been purchasing medical equipment, such as mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs, online.
“The first drawback is the complete lack of an assessment, but in addition to this, the product may be delivered in a box for the person to assemble themselves.
“If the product is faulty, they would usually be required to return the item, often at their own expense, to companies both in the UK and overseas.
“Sometimes internet-based companies do not provide any after-sales servicing and repairs which can result in equipment becoming dangerous.
“People who have used TLC have been surprised at the size of the facility, which is an old supermarket that has been converted to a high standard.
“They are pleased that a wide range of products are available, ensuring that people get multiple options from multiple suppliers, and are thankful that everything is explained in plain English and without any pressure to purchase.
“Staff at TLC also ensure people are fully trained before they use any product.”
Supporting independent living
The Lifestyle Centre provides information, assessments, advice and a range of products, equipment and daily living aids such as:
• Mobility, boot, pavement and road scooters
• Powered wheelchairs and standard wheelchairs
• Stairlifts
• Adjustable beds
• Rise and recline chairs
• Bathroom aids and adaptations
• Wet rooms
• Kitchen aids and adaptations
It is advisable that people have their products regularly serviced – for most items, once a year – but TLC will be able to advise the right frequency as this varies between products and usage.
TLC will also service products that have been purchased elsewhere.
The products at TLC are sold by Advantage Mobility, and as a social enterprise, the company donates all of its profits to Age UK Notts to help provide much-needed services to local older people.
If you’re in need of any advice or assistance to support and make your lifestyle easier, TLC is just the place for you.
