Research Involvement Opportunity: Introducing EQUIP-IN 


A new study focused on improving the provision of bathing equipment and adaptations for older adults
Following on from the successful BATH-OUT projects led by Dr Phillip Whitehead, we are launching a new programme of work - EQUIP-IN. This study will evaluate the end-to-end pathway for provision of bathing equipment and adaptations through adult social care services. We will specifically be determining their effectiveness and cost effectiveness for older adults with difficulty bathing. 


Our central aim is to identify how this pathway could be made simpler, in turn reducing differences between services. We also want to:
* better understand how usable the equipment and adaptations are
* find out how they help older adults maintain independence
* establish if they reduce the need for other health and social care services
* explore the impact of waiting times on outcomes
Meet the Team


This study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR208120). We’re a multidisciplinary team from the University of York, Newcastle University, Northumbria University and Foundations.


Our Chief Investigator is Phillip Whitehead. Phillip is an occupational therapist by profession but now focuses on applied social care research, particularly with older adults. His recent BATH-OUT projects have focused on major adaptations, which is why Phillip has now decided to embark on researching bathing equipment and minor adaptations with the EQUIP-IN team.


Get to know the whole team on our website (equip-in.org)
How to Get Involved


Firstly we want to map the key pathways and variations that exist between services. We are therefore asking adult social care teams to help us to understand how older adults with difficulty bathing access equipment and adaptations. Our survey will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete.


To get involved with the survey, email us sbs-equip-in@york.ac.uk. 


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This study/project is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Programme Grants for Applied Research (NIHR208120). The views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NIHR or the Department of Health and Social Care.