Important information for Trafford community health and partner staff
From 1 April 2025, equipment services in Trafford will be provided by the Manchester Equipment and Adaptations Partnership (MEAP). As part of this transition, all referrers requesting equipment for Trafford residents or patients will need access to Manchester’s ELMS system.
This change will help align Trafford with Manchester’s approach, bringing several benefits:
- A more consistent range of equipment
- Better stock availability
- Faster delivery times – MEAP aims for next-day delivery on stock items
We are working closely with MEAP to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
System access and training
How do I access the ELMS system?
All referrers in Trafford will need to register for access to Manchester’s ELMS system. If you do not yet have access, please follow these steps:
- Check if you are already registered – If you’ve previously used ELMS for Manchester, your access should remain active.
- Request access – If you need a new account, email ces.Trafford@nhs.net with your full name, role, and organisation details.
- Receive login details – Once approved, you will receive login credentials and instructions.
Is training available?
Yes. To help you navigate ELMS, we offer:
- Online user guides
- Step-by-step video tutorials
- Face-to-face training on request (for specific stock categories or ordering processes)
If you need additional training, please email mft.ces.trafford@nhs.net with details of the support you require.
Frequently asked questions
Manchester’s equipment stock
Can we have face-to-face training on stock, processes, and the ordering system?
Yes! Orders are placed on ELMS, where referrers select a delivery date. If you need further training on specific stock items, please email MEAP.
Is there a full list of available equipment?
Yes, the list is available on ELMS. Categories are straightforward (e.g., beds under “beds”, commodes under “toileting”).
Does MEAP provide adaptations?
No, this agreement covers equipment only – not adaptations.
How quickly will equipment be delivered in urgent cases?
Next-day delivery is standard from 1 April. Same-day deliveries may be possible depending on stock levels and approval.
What does ‘joinery and electrical items need to be ordered separately’ mean?
This refers to adaptations, which are not included in this agreement.
Who fits chair and sofa raisers?
These are classified as equipment, and MEAP drivers will fit them.
Will Trafford still have access to its usual slings and moving and handling equipment?
Yes, there are no planned changes to Trafford’s range of hoists and slings at this time.
Non-stock and special orders
What is the process for ordering non-stock items?
Trafford will continue using a panel review process for non-standard orders. Requests should be emailed to Trafford.NSE@nhs.net (email currently being set up).
What types of profiling beds are available?
MEAP stocks low-entry beds and standard beds. Crash mats can be ordered separately.
How are non-stock orders delivered?
When non-stock items arrive at MEAP stores, they are added to ELMS, barcoded, and scheduled for delivery.
Can we keep a small supply of ferrules?
Yes, a supply can be arranged. Please email mft.ces.trafford@nhs.net.
Can we request equipment to support assessments before ordering?
Yes, email mft.ces.trafford@nhs.net for more details.
What is a ‘combi bed lever’?
A combi bed lever is designed for both divan and slatted bases. Bed levers for profiling beds are available to order, but stock will not be expanded beyond this.
Satellite stores
Where will the satellite stores be located?
Our satellite stories will be based at:
- Meadway Health Centre
- Trafford General Hospital
- Wythenshawe Hospital
How often will satellite stores be replenished?
Weekly, as long as orders are recorded in ELMS. Unrecorded items will not be restocked.
What stock will be available in satellite stores?
A list of stocked items will be confirmed after 1 April.
How will satellite store items be recorded?
Assessors/prescribers must complete a recording form with full details before stock can be replenished. An order must then be placed on ELMS to reflect the movement of the item to a patient. Once the order has been placed on ELMS, the replenishment order will be created.
Children’s equipment
Will MEAP provide technician support for assembling children’s equipment?
This will depend on the level of fitting required. Small adjustments may be possible.
Can special equipment be shared between adults and paediatrics?
To be confirmed.
Will children’s equipment be stocked in satellite stores?
To be confirmed.
Equipment collection and contact information
How will equipment collections be handled?
Requests can be made via email or customer phone calls. Items can be returned to the store or collected weekly.
Who do I contact for support?
For general queries, email mft.ces.trafford@nhs.net.
Will there be a Trafford-based store to visit?
No. The main site for equipment is:
- Manchester Equipment and Adaptations Partnership, Phillips Park Road, Manchester, M11 3FU
Staff are welcome to visit this location to view stock. You can also find further information on the MEAP service page of the MLCO website.
Need more information?
For any further questions or support, please email mft.ces.trafford@nhs.net