A SCHOOLBOY with epilepsy was forced to turn to a charity for a wheelchair after being with a six-week wait on the NHS.

Cole Thomson suffers from focal epilepsy and has had seizures for a number of years but always maintained his mobility.

However, the six-year-old suffered a seizure five weeks ago that left him unable to stand independently and reliant on his parents to carry him around.

An occupational therapist suggested that a wheelchair might be useful for the youngster to allow him to get to school.

He was then referred with WestMArc but faced a wait of up to six weeks to see anyone.

It was then suggested that he contact the Red Cross for the loan of a chair - where he was able to pick one up on the same afternoon.

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The donation has given some much needed relief to the mother and son as he is now able to get to the hospital for his clinics and go to school.

Cole and mum Lisa are supporting the call for a new legislation which would see wheelchairs supplied to people who have a temporary need

Jacqui Walker MSP is leading a public consultation into the proposed changes.

Commenting at the launch of the consultation, Jackie Baillie MSP said: “No one should have to rely on charity to get the help that they need to stay mobile in 2019.

“Sadly that is the case however for many Scots who temporarily lose their mobility.

“Not being able to get about is very restrictive, it can be isolating and often leaves a person with impaired mobility wholly dependent on others.

“I want to change that, and that’s why I have launched a public consultation on my Member’s Bill which seeks to change the law to ensure everyone who needs a wheelchair for 6 months or less will get one free of charge.

“Not being able to access a wheelchair when you have a clear short-term mobility need can lead to a delay in discharge from hospital; prolong your rehabilitation; slow down your reablement and have a negative impact on your emotional wellbeing, your social connections and your financial situation.

“Creating a statutory duty to provide access to short term wheelchairs, where it is appropriate to do so, is a relatively small change, but it is one that can make a significant difference to people’s lives.”

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The British Red Cross said a wheelchair can help ensure a faster recovery from many illnesses and conditions.

Fiona McLeod Policy Officer, said: “Through our services, we see every day the significant difference that accessing a wheelchair can have.

“Not only can it help people get out and about and maintain some sense of their life, but it can help them to get to work, reduce their dependency on their family and friends, and sometimes speed up their recovery time.”

Other health charities also support the move.