Press Release

June 7, 2006

Sharon Hodgson backs campaign for disabled children

Sharon Hodgson is backing a Barnado's campaign to increase NHS funding for children's wheelchairs following a survey finding that 60% of children have unsuitable wheelchairs.

70,000 children rely on mobility equipment but NHS funding has fallen behind inflation for 15 years.

Mrs Hodgson said:

"Children with disabilities need the right support to give them the best start in life but far too many are losing out because funding for wheelchairs has been static for 15 years.

I am backing Barnado's in their campaign to end the postcode lottery and increase funding. Without the right wheelchairs, children cannot move around easily. This hampers their esteem and their ability to learn and interact with others. This also means that their parents are forced into buying hugely expensive wheelchairs."

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