As Platinum Sponsor of the National Association of Equipment Providers (NAEP) Conference 2026, Medequip is proud to support one of the UK's most important events for professionals involved in community equipment, assistive technology and integrated health and social care services.
Taking place from 29 June to 1 July 2026 at Chesford Grange Hotel in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, the conference brings together commissioners, clinicians, service providers, suppliers and industry leaders to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of equipment provision.
A Conference Focused on Learning and Practical Solutions
The NAEP Conference has built a strong reputation for providing a forum where professionals can share knowledge, debate emerging issues and identify practical solutions to support growing demands across health and social care services. This year's programme continues that tradition, offering a combination of keynote presentations, workshops, exhibitions and networking opportunities.
The event opens with an exhibitors' preview and networking reception on Monday evening before two full days of educational sessions and industry discussion. Delegates will have access to main-stage presentations, specialist workshops and a busy exhibition showcasing the latest innovations and services supporting equipment provision across the UK.
Key Themes for 2026
Sessions will explore:
- How equipment services can respond to changing healthcare demands and support better outcomes.
- Sustainability and the role of equipment providers in supporting the NHS net zero agenda.
- The future of equipment provision and policy development over the next decade.
- Consistency and fairness in seating provision and assessment criteria.
- Supporting people with mental health needs through effective equipment provision and risk management.
- The evolving relationship between Trusted Assessors and Occupational Therapists.
- Research, innovation and evidence-based practice within equipment services.
A particularly timely keynote session, 'Design for Life: Building a Circular Economy in Healthcare', will examine the government's ambition to create a circular economy for medical products by 2045 and explore opportunities for greater reuse of equipment across health and care systems.
Delegates will also hear updates from representatives across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, providing valuable insight into national developments and regional priorities.
Hands-On Dementia Experiences
One of the most innovative aspects of the 2026 conference is the introduction of immersive dementia experiences available throughout both conference days.
These practical sessions are designed to help delegates better understand the sensory, communication and environmental challenges experienced by people living with dementia. Through specialist simulation equipment and experiential learning activities, participants will gain valuable insights that can inform service design, assessment and care delivery.
The programme includes the Dementia Interpreter experience, which focuses on understanding communication changes associated with dementia, alongside the D.I.E.T. (Dining Immersive Experiential Training) experience, exploring the barriers people with dementia can face during mealtimes and how environments can be adapted to improve outcomes.
The Importance of Collaboration
Beyond the formal programme, the conference provides an invaluable opportunity for professionals from across the sector to connect, share experiences and learn from one another.
As pressures on health and social care services continue to evolve, collaboration between commissioners, clinicians, providers and suppliers has never been more important. Events such as the NAEP Conference help foster the partnerships and conversations that ultimately lead to better outcomes for service users.
Medequip's Commitment
As NAEP's Platinum Sponsor for 2026, Medequip is delighted to support an event that aligns closely with our commitment to improving lives through effective equipment provision, innovation and partnership working.
“We are delighted to be sponsoring and exhibiting at the NAEP Conference 2026. A number of key members of my team are looking forward to engaging with leaders and delegates from across the community equipment services sector, alongside our customers and supplier partners. Events such as NAEP provide an invaluable opportunity to share knowledge, strengthen relationships and explore how, together, we can continue to improve outcomes for the people who rely on our services.” - James Ibbotson, Chief Executive Officer, Medequip
Medequip's Managing Director, David Griffiths, will also be participating in the conference programme. David will join representatives from other service providers during the 'Building Better Futures' session on Wednesday afternoon, sharing insights, experiences and lessons learned from across the sector.
Throughout the conference, delegates will be able to meet the Medequip team at Stand 31 in the main Kenilworth Room, where we will be showcasing our services, discussing current challenges and opportunities within community equipment provision, and exploring how collaborative working can help shape the future of the sector.
We look forward to welcoming customers, partners, suppliers and colleagues from across the industry to our stand and to an engaging and insightful conference.