AKW, one of the UK's leading providers of accessibility solutions, has launched its Onyx Care Pod, a stylish, standalone shower cubicle that can be installed to suit both wheelchair and non-wheelchair users alike. It has also been developed in consultation with local authorities, housing associations, occupational therapists and contractors and comes with a lifetime guarantee*.
The Onyx Care Pod significantly reduces installation times, saving both time and money. A maximum of two days is required to remove the existing bathroom and install the Care Pod, compared to the traditional 5-7 days for an adaptation installation. The total cost of supply and fit is in line with a standard adaptation but using much higher end products.
The competitive pricing of the Onyx Care Pod also makes a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) a realistic funding option.
Available as alcove or corner shower units, in a range of dimensions, the Onyx Care Pod solution comes with AKW's Larenco 6mm toughened glass, two mid-grey grab rails and a height-adjustable padded fold-up shower seat as standard. The accessories meet the required Light Reflective Value (LRV) rating for those with visual impairments and are also suitable for those with dementia.
It is available with a choice of either the AKW SmartCare Plus BEAB Care approved electric shower, or Arka thermostatic care mixer valve (TMV3) shower. With safety front-of-mind in the design of the pods, the shower tray has a higher slip-resistance than other surface mounted trays and can also be recessed for wheelchair users.
The Onyx Care Pod wall panels are structural, allowing them to support a range of mobility aids and accessories that can be fixed during, or post installation, to user specific heights. The wall panels are also easy to clean and harbour less bacteria than grouted tiles. As all of the Onyx Care Pods come with duo doors, care-assisted bathing is made easier, providing users with a long-term showering solution that can meet future as well as present requirements.
"Designed with safety, speed of installation and style in mind, the Onyx Care Pod is the ideal solution for local authorities, housing associations, care homes, and private pay end users," said Stuart Reynolds, Head of Product and Marketing at AKW. "Its quick installation is a win-win for end-users and installers alike, as the user doesn't have to wait long to get a bathroom that meets their needs, and the simple installation method reduces the chance of snagging and call backs for the installer. The pod is also easy to specify as we have created an Onyx Care Pod configurator, making it straightforward for the OT, specifier or contractor to get the right solution for each end user. Thanks to the Onyx Care Pod, inclusive showering just got that bit easier – and more stylish too!"
For more information, please visit AKW, call 01905 823298, or email sales@akw-ltd.co.uk