FREQUENCY ASKED QUESTIONS
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WHAT IS A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE?
CAN I SPEAK DIRECTLY TO A SHONAQUIP SEATING THERAPIST?
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ARE YOUR PRACTITIONERS TRAINED IN SEATING?
CAN A THERAPIST VISIT A CHILD AT HOME OR AT A CENTRE?
WHICH SHONAQUIP DEVICES ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE TENDER?
WHERE CAN I GET A CATALOGUE OF DEVICES?
CAN I GET A LIST OF PRICES AND CODES OF TENDER DEVICES? WHERE CAN I GET ADVICE ABOUT THE TENDER?
ARE SPEC SHEETS AVAILABLE FOR THE DIFFERENT DEVICES?
WHERE IN AFRICA DOES SHONAQUIP CURRENTLY PROVIDE DEVICES?
DOES SHONAQUIP OFFER OCCUPATIONAL OR PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR CHILDREN WITH MOBILITY IMPAIRMENT?
FOR CAREGIVERS & PARENTS
What is the SSE Parent Network and how can I join?
Who can join?
If you are the primary caregiver, or you are a passionate champion for children with disabilities in your community, you will benefit from the Parent Network – contact us to find out more!
What does it cost?
The network is being created by parents, for parents and is free for you to join!
How does it work?
The Parent Network has a few different roles: An Advisory Board made up of Parents and Inclusion Champions helps to keep the Network growing in the right direction. A Network Parent volunteers their time to lead and support a group of Parent Champions in their district. A Parent Champion is any parent or inclusion champion who contributes to, and benefits from, the network. Parent Champions support families of children with disabilities in their direct community with information and referral through the network. All of the stakeholders are supported by Shonaquip Social Enterprise’s Admin, Training, and Social Support Teams.
The Network makes use of WhatsApp to connect, share information and support one another.
How do I join?
Call or WhatsApp us on 071 371 9103 or send us a direct message on Facebook!
Why should I consider a mobility device from Shonaquip?
Shonaquip is a leading manufacturer of children͛s devices in South Africa, having been involved in wheelchair manufacturing for over 30 years. Our services and products are aligned to global best practice in wheelchair services as recommended by World Health Organization and our seating practitioners, many with a therapist background, are specifically trained in seating. Shonaquip devices not only meet the specific posture support needs of your child, but they are designed for local conditions. They especially fill a gap for people who need a lot of posture support to be able to sit upright and move around safely. Replacement parts are locally available.
Shonaquip devices are backed up by services including clinical and technical services, training of users and carers and referrals to connect you to additional support and resources through our many partner organizations.
How do I know if my child needs a Shonaquip device and which one is most suitable?
If your child has difficulty sitting up and moving about and is not developing like his/her siblings or peers, it is recommended that you have your child assessed by a trained developmental specialist, Physio or Occupational therapist who can help decide whether your child should have a seating/mobility device.An assessment will determine which wheelchair will be most appropriate.
My child cannot push a wheelchair. Is there any device that Shonaquip can recommend?
Shonaquip has a range of devices which do not require the child to be able to push him/herself, yet offer appropriate posture support and reduce the load on the carer. Your therapist will also assess and recommend whether a motorized wheelchair will be appropriate for your child.
I don't live in Cape Town. How do I get a Shonaquip device?
Contact a therapist at your local clinic, hospital or private practice for a full seating assessment. Shonaquip is happy to liaise with therapists across the country who need any assistance in the prescription of a device. Shonaquip do have seating therapists in Gauteng and our clinical team conducts outreach clinic activities across SA at intervals during the year. Please contact info@shonaquipse.org.za for further information or assistance in this regard.
CAN MY CHILD’S PHYSIO OR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST DO MY CHILD’S ASSESSMENT AND MEASUREMENT FOR A SHONAQUIP DEVICE?
Yes this can be done. If the therapist is not a seating practitioner, your therapist can contact a Shonaquip therapist for assistance as required.
I WOULD LIKE TO PURCHASE A SHONAQUIP DEVICE BUT IT IS TOO EXPENSIVE?
Shonaquip can provide advice with regard to contact details of funders who may be assist you.
DOES SHONAQUIP HIRE OUT OR RENT OUT WHEELCHAIRS?
Shonaquip does not routinely hire out wheelchairs or buggies. If you wish to hire a temporary mobility device, contact CE Mobility, Primacare or Wynberg Pharmacy.
HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR AN ASSESSMENT FOR A DEVICE?
Contact the Shonaquip office for an assessment to be arranged with a seating therapist. If you do not have a medical aid, visit your nearest hospital where you can be assessed for a device. If your child is not linked to any hospital/clinic, you can contact Shonaquip directly for more information regarding private purchase or for advice around funding.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET MY SHONAQUIP DEVICE AFTER ASSESSMENT?
The typical time it takes for a device to be fitted after assessment varies, depending on whether the device is standard/ customised and where you live/your local hospital seating service. It should ideally be within 6 -8 weeks once a 50% deposit is settled. The device fitting time will also depend on the availability of a local trained seating practitioner to do the fitting. Should the device be highly customised or a power device this may affect the lead time.
WHY DO I NEED A BUGGY IF I ALREADY HAVE A PRAM FOR MY CHILD?
As soon as you notice that your child is not sitting, moving and developing in a similar way to other children of the same age, it would be a good idea to have your child assessed. A pram does not always offer the correct support and alignment or adjustability for a child that is not developing in the typical way. If correctly supported in a posture support device, the child can interact, play more easily and be fed comfortably and safely. There are benefits for the carer too in terms of caring for and transporting the child.
The child can be assessed as young as 6 months for a device to provide the correct support while sitting up. If the child is able to self- propel as he/she gets older or stronger, a more active wheelchair can be prescribed.
DOES SHONAQUIP SUPPLY A BASIC FOLDING FRAME WHEELCHAIR?
After a thorough and in depth assessment has been done, Shonaquip seating practitioners will work with you to determine which device will work best for the client in need of a mobility device. If this is a folding wheelchair or any other wheelchair that Shonaquip does not manufacture, we will be able to assist you by referring you to another supplier or assist you to order this device needed from the supplier.
MY CHILD CANNOT SIT UP AT ALL WITHOUT SUPPORT. DOES SHONAQUIP PROVIDE A WHEELCHAIR THAT SUPPORTS MY CHILD PROPERLY?
Shonaquip is a leading wheelchair provider for children needing special or customised posture support in a mobility or positioning device. Once your child has been assessed by a Shonaquip seating practitioner or affiliate, they will make a recommendation as to the device that is best suited to support your child in a good sitting posture, suit their needs and environment and encourage them to be as independent as possible
CAN AN ADULT BE PRESCRIBED A BUGGY?
Yes it is possible in some circumstances (especially the original Madiba Buggy), and will depend on the specific needs of the user. Your therapist will discuss what other devices could provide more suitable appropriate posture support for the older user.
CAN MY SHONAQUIP DEVICE BE DISMANTLED FOR TRANSPORT OR STORAGE?
Yes, Shonaquip devices are able to be folded for storage or transport. Special attention has been given to easy folding mechanisms for the more recent designs of devices as we know from feedback from our clients how important this is for them.
CAN I TRIAL A MOBILITY DEVICE FROM SHONAQUIP?
A device may be trialled by arrangement with a Shonaquip therapist if available. A consent form should be signed before trialling the device for a period of 7 or 14 days.
CAN SHONAQUIP ASSIST WITH COMMUNICATION WITH MY MEDICAL AID?
Shonaquip can support your application to medical aid with a letter of motivation as required to facilitate the process. Contact Nicole@shonaquipse.org.za should you require assistance.
DOES SHONAQUIP PRESCRIBE AND FIT DEVICES FOR ADULTS TOO?
Yes, Shonaquip does prescribe wheelchairs for adults although there is a special focus on the younger client with more posture support needs.
CAN I ORDER A SHONAQUIP DEVICE IF I LIVE OUTSIDE SOUTH AFRICA?
Yes, this is possible. Shonaquip currently supplies devices beyond our borders.
CAN A SECOND DEVICE BE ORDERED FOR A CHILD WHO ATTENDS SCHOOL?
The need for this will be assessed by your therapist at Shonaquip. Sometimes it is practical for this if transport is not available to move the wheelchair between home and school each day.
DOES MY SHONAQUIP DEVICE NEED TO BE FITTED BY A SEATING THERAPIST?
Yes, it is best if a therapist trained in seating can do the final fitting in the device. This is because the cushion will need to be specially fitted and small changes may be necessary to ensure comfort, correct posture support and safety.
I LIVE FAR AWAY FROM SHONAQUIP? HOW DO I GET MY DEVICE FITTED?
It is very important that your device is fitted by a person who is trained to do this. Simple adjustments often need to be made once the device has been assembled to ensure that is safe for the client to use. It is useful to contact a local therapist to liaise with a Shonaquip therapist if there is no seating practitioner in the area.
CAN A SHONAQUIP THERAPIST TO A HOME VISIT FOR MY CHILD?
In a situation where a child is unable to come into the office, it may be possible for a Shonaquip therapist to assess or review your child at home. You will need to contact your therapist directly should this become necessary.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD A WHEELCHAIR USER’S SEATING BE REVIEWED BY A THERAPIST?
Within a week or 2 after your device is fitted, give feedback to your therapist about how the user is doing with the device. This is to iron out any initial problems. Following this, every wheelchair user should have a review by a therapist at least every 3-6 months (or sooner if there is a problem). However if you have a very young user whose needs change more frequently, it is advised to be reviewed even more often.
This review will re-assess both the user and the device and make any modifications, recommendations, referrals or prescription of a new device as necessary. Any top-up training in use of the device can also be done.
MY DEVICE NEEDS A SERVICE/REPAIR? CAN I SPEAK TO SOMEONE AT SHONAQUIP ABOUT IT?
You may speak to your therapist at Shonaquip to arrange a review. Contact Shonaquip for information about spares/parts replacement.
SHOULD MY CHILD CONTINUE TO USE THE DEVICE IF HE/SHE HAS A PRESSURE MARK/SORE ON THE SKIN?
It is recommended that you keep the child out of the device/away from area causing pressure until any redness has gone away. Seek medical advice if there is any further development of the sore and be sure to inform your seating therapist.
DOES SHONAQUIP OFFER OCCUPATIONAL OR PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR CHILDREN WITH MOBILITY IMPAIRMENT?
Our therapists can offer basic advice related to positioning and make recommendations or referrals for specific therapy to any of our many partner organisations and services.
DOES SHONAQUIP SELL NAPPIES OR INCONTINENCE PRODUCTS?
Unfortunately, Shonaquip doesn’t sell incontinence products. Shonaquip recommends that you contact either Clicks, Dischem, NappyCare or Hartmann (PE) for incontinence related queries and Sage for incontinence products.
DOES SHONAQUIP SELL GRAB RAILS, CRUTCHES, WALKING FRAMES, COMMODES AND OTHER ASSISTIVE DEVICES?
Shonaquip does not sell these devices and recommends that you contact CE Mobility, Mobility Aids, Presta, Wynberg Pharmacy or other local suppliers of this equipment.
DOES SHONAQUIP SELL GRAB RAILS, CRUTCHES, WALKING FRAMES, COMMODES AND OTHER ASSISTIVE DEVICES?
HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
What is the differences between the different types of buggies?
Shonaquip’s original postural support buggy is the Madiba which is available on government tender. This buggy has standard features. The customised version of the original buggy is the Shonabuggy which accommodates the child with postural deviations or additional posture support needs.
The new generation modular buggy is the Madiba2Go. The madiba2go provides very similar support to the Madiba Buggy but has been specifically designed to allow for easy adjustability of posture support features, optimal positioning of the upper limb as well as being more foldable.
Can an adult be prescribed a buggy?
Yes it is possible in some circumstances, this will depend on the results of the physical assessment as well as the preference and needs of the wheelchair user and their family. Your therapist will discuss what other devices could provide similar kinds of posture support and whether these would be more suited to the older user.
DOES SHONAQUIP SUPPLY A BASIC FOLDING FRAME WHEELCHAIR?
It is always important to assess a client before deciding with the client or carer what wheelchair would be best. There are many options that are available to suit different environments (e.g. more rural), lifestyles, ages, level of functioning. If this is a folding wheelchair or any other wheelchair that Shonaquip does not manufacture, we will be able to assist you by referring you to another supplier or assist you to order this device needed from the supplier. Shonaquip doesn’t supply a regular folding frame device but recommend that you contact CE Mobility should you require one.
DOES SHONAQUIP ONLY PROVIDE DEVICES FOR CLIENTS WITH HIGH POSTURE SUPPORT NEEDS?
Shonaquip has a range of devices which are appropriate for the active user and especially the active child who is able to propel him/herself and likes to get around independently.
CAN SHONAQUIP PROVIDE DEVICES OUTSIDE OF SA?
Yes, a Shonaquip device is a possibility for a private client anywhere in the world. Contact info@shonaquipse.org.za to speak to a therapist if you are interested in pursuing the provision of Shonaquip devices for clients in your country.
CAN I TRIAL A MOBILITY DEVICE FROM SHONAQUIP?
A device may be trialled by arrangement with a Shonaquip therapist if available. This is usually for a period of 7-14 days and a consent form is signed by the user/carer prior to trial.
DOES SHONAQUIP DONATE WHEELCHAIRS?
Shonaquip does not donate devices routinely but may refer children in need to potential funders like Rachel Swart Fund and Uhambo Foundation. Please contact info@shonaquipse.org.za to find out more.
DO SHONAQUIP DEVICES COME IN DIFFERENT COLOURS?
Devices are manufactured in standard colour ranges but there is some choice with respect to upholstery.
DOES EACH CHILD NEED THEIR OWN POSITIONING DEVICE OR CAN A NUMBER OF CHILDREN SHARE ONE AT A CENTRE OR SCHOOL?
It is often recommended that schools or centres, residential homes, hospitals order a few positioning devices e.g. standing frame; side positioner (lala positioner) vehicle positioner (izi positioner) to be able to cater for the needs of the children in their care. A size that suits the majority of children will be selected and carers will be shown how to adjust the device to the different sizes of children.
WHICH SHONAQUIP DEVICES ARE ON NATIONAL TENDER?
The devices currently on tender in 2017 include Madiba Buggy, Madiba2Go, Sully, Sam, Jack Stander (standing frame); Tess Back; Gibby Back, Motivation Rough Terrain wheelchair; vehicle positioner.
HOW OLD SHOULD A CHILD BE BEFORE BEING ASSESSED FOR A MOBILITY DEVICE?
As soon as you observe and assess a child as having difficulties in the development of sitting upright and moving around (and when compared with peers) it is a good idea to have an assessment by a therapist who may consider the usefulness of a device to ensure the child’s development is not delayed. This may be as young as 6 months age. A child will need to have more frequent reviews by the seating therapist to ensure ever changing needs are met and that no secondary problems are developing.
DOES SHONAQUIP ONLY PROVIDE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR CHILDREN?
Although Shonaquip does have a special focus on the needs of children with moderate to complex postural support needs, we also do provide devices for children who are more active users or assess adults with varying posture support needs who may be impaired in their intellectual or other development.
I WOULD LIKE TO ORDER A DEVICE, WHAT ARE THE STEPS I MUST FOLLOW?
Your first step would be to have your child/the user assessed and measured by a therapist with seating experience to determine what type of wheelchair would be most suited to the user.
A range of device options and accessories will be discussed with you depending on posture support and other needs and the funding available. A spec sheet will be completed and a quotation generated for the client. The order will be placed with Shonaquip, (or the manufacturer if a non- Shonaquip device) once a deposit is paid. Once the device is ready, the client will be contacted for a fitting by a seating therapist, after which some modifications may be necessary. The client and carer will be shown how to operate, adjust and look after the device. They will be told about the important of follow up appointments which will review both the user and the device at regular intervals (usually 2-3 monthly) in the future.
DO SHONAQUIP THERAPISTS ONLY PRESCRIBE SHONAQUIP DEVICES?
Shonaquip therapists are all trained to be able to assess and prescribe the most appropriate device to meet the client’s needs. As such they are familiar with a range of wheelchairs available locally and will advise the client/carer on the most appropriate choice and may refer to other suppliers should this be required.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET YOUR DEVICE FROM THE TIME THE CLIENT IS ASSESSED?
For private clients the process from assessment to delivery of device takes approximately 4-6 weeks. It may take longer if another supplier’s device has been prescribed or if complex customization is needed.
However if a device is ordered through a department there are many variables which may affect the time. Because the needs of the young wheelchair user change so quickly over months, Shonaquip does everything possible to ensure devices can be delivered and fitted as soon as possible. It is especially important that young children are fitted as soon as possible after the assessment has been done because their needs may change quickly over a short period.
HOW DO WE ARRANGE AN OUTREACH CLINIC WITH SHONAQUIP THERAPISTS?
It is useful to arrange an outreach clinic to learn more about Shonaquip products and their 24 hour positioning approach. Contact info@shonaquipse.org.za to speak to a therapist should you wish to arrange this. You will be advised on how this can be set up should this be your first time, what your responsibilities as host are, and what can be expected from the outreach team. It is always valuable for as many local staff as possible to attend the outreach clinic to maximise the transfer skills to local staff.
DOES SHONAQUIP OFFER PRESSURE MAPPING SERVICES?
Shonaquip can offer this service or refer you to CE Mobility or other similar services.
WHERE CAN A CHILD WHO IS NOT UNDER CARE OF DEPT. OF HEALTH GET A SHONAQUIP DEVICE?
Speak to a therapist who can assist you with funder options like Uhambo Foundation or Rachel Swart Fund.
IF WORKING IN THE DEPT. EDUCATION OR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, HOW DO I ARRANGE FOR A CHILD TO GET A WHEELCHAIR OR OTHER POSITIONING DEVICE?
It is best to refer the child to the therapist at your school or to the local clinic or hospital for an assessment for a wheelchair. If the client is a private client you may like to approach Shonaquip for a comprehensive seating assessment.
CAN SHONAQUIP ASSESS THE MOBILITY AND POSITIONING NEEDS OF CHILDREN ATTENDING OUR CENTRE?
Contact info@shonaquipse.org.za to speak to a therapist who works in your region.
WHAT WARRANTY DO SHONAQUIP DEVICES HAVE?
Shonaquip devices have a limited 1 year warranty. However this excludes damage due to negligence/abuse, as well as, bearings, tyres and general wear and tear. The warranty does not apply to any part of a device that has been installed, altered, repaired or misused in any way that, in the opinion of Shonaquip, would affect the reliability or detracts from the performance of the device; or is damaged as a result of use in a way or with equipment that had not been previously approved by Shonaquip. The warranty does not apply to any device or parts thereof where the serial number or the serial number of its parts has been altered, defaced or removed.
CAN I RETURN A SHONAQUIP DEVICE?
You may return an unsafe or defective device within 6 months of purchase and request a repair, replacement or refund provided that the device has not been altered in any manner whatsoever.
For any further information, contact David@shonaquipse.org.za
WHERE CAN I GET PARTS FOR A SHONAQUIP DEVICE?
Parts can be obtained from Shonaquip. If you are unsure of the name of the part, you may wish to refer to the glossary. (Link attached).
Contact the office if you need to order a part or speak to a technician or seating therapist. The time taken to get parts will vary depending on whether it is in stock. If you require technical services and are not in Cape Town, a therapist will be in touch with you to make a plan for a visit during outreach in the area.
HOW DO I GET A SHONAQUIP DEVICE SERVICED OR REPAIRED FOR MY CLIENT?
It is best to bring your device to Shonaquip for a service or to your seating therapist if you don’t live near to a Shonaquip office. A wheelchair repair technician, local hospital handyman or bicycle repair technician may be able to assist with basic problems.
DOES SHONAQUIP PROVIDE A REPLACEMENT DEVICE WHEN A DEVICE IS BEING REPAIRED?
Shonaquip does not offer replacement devices while a device is under repair. We aim to repair wheelchairs on a ‘walk-in’ basis or to have them repaired/serviced within 1-2 days.
CAN I ORDER AN EXTRA CUSHION OR SET OF COVERS FOR MY DEVICE?
You may order extra cushions or covers as needed. These can be supplied directly if in stock.
WHERE CAN I GET SPARE PARTS FOR MY SHONAQUIP DEVICE?
Contact info@shonaquipse.org.za for information regarding spare parts for your Shonaquip device.
DOES SHONAQUIP REFURBISH OLD DEVICES FOR RE-ISSUE?
Shonaquip will take previously owned devices for repair and re-issue on request. Contact David@shonaquipse.org.za for more information and to arrange collection/delivery of devices.
CAN A SHONAQUIP THERAPIST VISIT OUR CENTRE TO SERVICE OUR SHONAQUIP DEVICES?
This can be arranged through our clinical services.
DOES SHONAQUIP HIRE OUT OR RENT OUT WHEELCHAIRS?
Shonaquip does not routinely hire out wheelchairs or buggies. Should you be want to hire a temporary mobility device, contact CE Mobility, Primacare or Wynberg Pharmacy.