For people requiring assisted bathing, ensuring a safe, efficient, and comfortable setup is essential. In this project, the client’s existing Astor Bannerman bath, whic was more than 15 years old, needed to be replaced.
Previously, the client had to be hoisted into another room for drying after a bath, adding unnecessary transfers and inconvenience to the process. The goal was to keep all bathing and drying activities within the bathroom itself, improving both practicality and comfort.
Project Goals and Requirements
The primary objectives were:
- To enable bathing and drying in one location, removing the need for hoisting into another room.
- To provide a direct replacement for the previous bath, avoiding major layout changes.
- To incorporate a Neatfold Stretcher for efficient post-bath drying and changing.
Project Process and Approach
Assessment and Planning
A site survey was conducted by Gary Mercer to discuss the bathroom layout and ensure the new bath would fit seamlessly into the existing space.Â
Installation Process
The installation was coordinated with the client and scheduled to fit around third-party tiling work, which caused some delays. The bath was installed on 3rd March 2025.
Solution and Equipment Provided
To meet these needs, Astor Bannerman supplied and installed:
- Astor Kiva Bath – A direct replacement for the previous bath, maintaining a familiar layout while improving functionality.
- Astor Neatfold Stretcher – Allowing for drying and changing over the bath, eliminating unnecessary transfers.
- Guard Rails – Providing additional security and support.
This setup ensured that bathing, drying, and changing could all take place in a single, safe space, reducing handling risks and improving efficiency for carers.
Challenges and Solutions
While there were no major technical challenges, the installation timeline was extended due to the client’s decision to re-tile the bathroom at the same time. Continuous communication ensured that scheduling was managed effectively, and installation proceeded smoothly once the tiling was completed.
Outcome and Client Feedback
The client is happy with the new bath and its functionality, as it successfully meets their original objectives. They particularly appreciate the Neatfold Stretcher, which has eliminated the need for transfers to another room, making the bathing and drying process much more efficient.
Feedback from the client also noted that the engineer did a great job, ensuring a smooth installation.
This project demonstrates how the right equipment choice, combined with thoughtful planning and collaboration, can significantly improve daily care routines, making life easier for both clients and carers.
