GURULO - Improved service infrastructure and workshop-network for people with reduced mobility

MEREK is a national public organisation active in the complex rehabilitation of people with physical disabilities. MEREK launched its EU-funded national programme, GURULO (Rolling) to deliver solution to the following problems: 1) the assistive products were not personalized meeting individual needs of end-users; 2) the waiting time for repair was long, services were hard to reach in the countryside; 3) supply and service for children’s products was rudimentary; 4) number of sports assistive products were low; 5) lacking rental of products temporarily needed; 5) quality of services was low in general. GURULO delivered innovative solution to these challenges by the establishment of a national network of regional workshops to implement innovative assistive technology, to repair, develop or improve special sports equipment, and to make products and services available to the target group. End-users were involved to meet personal needs enhancing the independence of people with disabilities. This supply of suitable goods increased personal independence at home and at work, and enabled family members to meet their home care obligations easier. It raised awareness of people with disabilities to make use of the rehabilitation services of the workshops and the members of the network. Delivery of the Home Care innovation was strengthened by cooperation among the public body (MEREK), end-users (patients, families, professionals) and the staff of the manufacturing/repairing workshops.