As of Friday 1 August 2025, Medequip became the new provider of the Community Equipment Loan Service for Dorset Council and BCP Council and NHS Dorset taking over from NRS Healthcare. 

Medequip is a trusted national provider with extensive experience in delivering essential community equipment services across the UK.    

The service will initially operate on an urgent and critical basis. 

We understand that you may have questions about this change. Below, we have answered some of the most common queries to help reassure and guide you during this transition.  

Do I need to return my equipment from NRS Healthcare?

No, you do not need to return equipment that has been prescribed to you on loan because of the change in provider. Please continue to use it as normal.

I am waiting for daily living equipment. Will I still receive it?

Yes, Medequip will only fulfil critical and urgent orders during the initial phase of the transition. There may be some delay, but we are working hard to minimise disruption. If you have concerns, please contact the prescriber who ordered the equipment for you.

What should I do if my equipment needs repairing?

Medequip will provide a repair and replacement service for critical equipment.

Please contact Medequip directly to arrange repairs: 

Can I return equipment I no longer need?

Equipment collections will be paused temporarily during the transition period. We will share updates on when collections will resume. In the meantime, please hold onto any equipment you wish to return.

What happens if I need specialist equipment?

If you require bespoke equipment, your clinician will assess your needs and discuss options with you, including expected delivery times and interim support.

Will this change affect hospital discharges?

Medequip will provide discharge-critical equipment to support hospital discharges. While minor delays may occur during the transition, urgent cases will be prioritised to ensure minimal impact.

Can I purchase my own equipment?

Yes, you can purchase equipment independently.

For advice on what to buy, please visit Medequip’s Self-Help Guide – this will help you find products that can provide solutions to problems you select relating to different areas of the home.

You can also visit Medequip’s online retail store, Manage At Home

How can I identify Medequip staff delivering equipment?

Medequip staff will always wear uniforms, carry identification badges, and contact you before arriving to confirm delivery details. If you receive any unexpected communications asking for payment or personal information, please report this immediately on the number below. 

For all other questions relating to the community equipment service please contact our Adult Access Contact Centre for assistance: