23rd March 2025
Write up by Hilary Croydon
We met at Feering, near Colchester in Essex on 23rd March 2025 for our Spring meeting. There were 16 of us from across the region, chatting over tea, coffee and biscuits and listening to our speaker, Bob Barnett, who came from REMAP Essex North to talk about the work REMAP volunteers do for people with disabilities.
Bob explained that REMAP began its work in 1964 after Pat Johnson, an ICI engineer, made a ramp and a ceiling hoist tracking system for his sister who had contracted polio as a child and was wheelchair dependent. He and a group of work colleagues got together to help other people with disabilities. Since then, REMAP branches have been set up right across the country; there are now about 65 in total and about 3,000 people are helped each year.
Remap produces aids and equipment, free of charge, for people with disabilities where there is no suitable commercial option available and rely upon donations. The solutions are tailored to the individual person and REMAP volunteers work closely with health professionals such as occupational therapists to ensure that the equipment meets the needs of the person and is safe.
Bob showed us many examples of the aids provided including: a small lift for one lady to enable her to get into her house where a ramp was not an option; an electronic means of turning the pages on a e-book by smiling; and a specialised easel to enable a client to continue to paint.
People are often referred to REMAP by their occupational therapist or physiotherapist but individuals or carers can also make referrals via the website at www.remap.org.uk
Following a referral, one of REMAP’s volunteers will meet the client, generally with their occupational therapist or other health professional, to discuss the need. The volunteer will then design and make the equipment especially for that client. This may involve several visits to make any adjustments to ensure the aid works well for the individual and can be used safely.
If there are any problems with the equipment in the future, a REMAP volunteer will check it and make any necessary changes.
Volunteers often have a background in different areas of engineering but also include experienced DIYers who are good problem solvers. REMAP always welcomes applications from people who wish to volunteer.
Bob’s talk gave us insight, not only into REMAP’s work, but also into the creative and innovative minds of its volunteers who quietly help so many people with otherwise insoluble problems.
We plan to meet next on Sunday, 12th October 2025 from 2.30 pm – 5 pm at Feering Community Centre CO5 9QB. Everyone is very welcome.