We discussed how different families would need different sized hot tubs. There are countless models on the market, but I have narrowed it down to 3 different models based on reviews and cost:

• 2-4 person (180cm diameter): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lay-Z-Spa-AirJet-Massage-Inflatable-Technology/dp/B08DJBCL7M/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=inflatable%2Bhot%2Btub%2Bwith%2Bcover&qid=1690286548&sprefix=%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-3&th=1

• 4-6 person (180cm square): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lay-Z-Spa-AirJet-Massage-Inflatable-Technology/dp/B08DJBGV38/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=inflatable%2Bhot%2Btub%2Bwith%2Bcover&qid=1690286548&sprefix=%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-2&th=1

• 6 person (196cm diameter):

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lay-Z-Spa-AirJet-Massage-Inflatable-Technology/dp/B08DJBDDYH/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=inflatable%2Bhot%2Btub%2Bwith%2Bcover&qid=1690286548&sprefix=%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-2&th=1

The approximate cost of running a hot tub is £800-£1075 per year (based on using it 3 or 4 times each week for 30-45 minutes at a time).

This includes energy costs, servicing, cleaning products and water. As we discussed on the call, it may be that you only need to use these hot tubs during the school holidays or when your child is unable to access a public hydrotherapy pool, and so your running costs are likely to be less than this figure.

Depending on funding, we may be able to assist with this cost if needed.

If you need extra help lifting your child into and out of the hot tub, you may need a hoist. If you do not have a suitable portable hoist at home you may be able to access one through a social care needs assessment. Alternatively, you could purchase one outright or you could apply for a grant if you are unable to cover the cost yourself. If you need any help with this, please let me know.

There are a couple of options:

• You could use a gazebo over the hot tub. This will need to be open on the sides so that it can dry out from the steam, but should trap some of the heat in. For example: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pop-up-Gazebo-Waterproof-Outdoor-Marquee/dp/B09HXNNFWB/ref=sr_1_38?crid=1TFC5YLT5R1YX&keywords=waterproof%2Bsmall%2Bgazebo&qid=1690281502&sprefix=waterproof%2Bsmall%2Bgazebo%2Caps%2C54&sr=8-38&th=1

• You could use an AbleDry towel to help you to get your child indoors quicker. These towels are designed for wheelchairs and have a waterproof backing to stop the wheelchair from getting wet, and a fleece layer to absorb water. You could transfer your child from the hot tub to the wheelchair and use a poncho towel or terry towelling house coat to cover them before taking them inside to dry off properly. AbleDry towel: https://ablemove.co.uk/product/abledry-wheelchair-cover/

• You could use an outdoor heater. There are safety concerns with this (e.g., having electricity near water, risk of fire hazard) and there would be additional running costs, too, however it may be an option to consider. For example: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00518NBXE/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B00518NBXE&pd_rd_w=VNsrq&content-id=amzn1.sym.67430c1d-696a-45e1-be6b-972213775cc6&pf_rd_p=67430c1d-696a-45e1-be6b-972213775cc6&pf_rd_r=KE15Z7KVZGEXAGWNDJ16&pd_rd_wg=QSgI8&pd_rd_r=8ab42438-73a0-404e-bd70-7d209e5fffed&s=kitchen&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWwy

If you have a public hydrotherapy pool nearby, you may prefer to make use of this than set up and maintain a hot tub at home. In these cases, we may still be able to provide some funding to subsidise these sessions.