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Supporting independence, one bathroom at a time

Premier Care in Bathing and NRAS have partnered for a shared cause

Written by Peter Whittall, Premier Care in Bathing

At Premier Care in Bathing, we believe that independence, dignity, and safety should never be compromised, especially in the most personal space of all, the bathroom. For over 30 years, we’ve specialised in creating bathrooms tailored to the unique needs of the elderly and those living with conditions like arthritis, dementia, Parkinson’s and mobility impairments. Our mission has always been to provide practical solutions that restore confidence and ease into everyday routines. That’s why our partnership with the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) feels not just natural, but essential.

We’re proud to support NRAS, and we were delighted to welcome Helen and Peter from the charity to our headquarters recently. Their visit offered a wonderful opportunity to give them a first-hand look at how we operate, from our customer service process and design consultations to how our team ensures every bathroom is built with care, safety, and dignity in mind.

Peter Foxton (CEO) and Helen Saich with
Peter Whittall (right) at Premier Care in Bathing offices.

Helen and Peter toured our facility and spent time with different departments, gaining insights into how we manage customer needs from the first phone call to the final installation. They met with our design consultants, who are trained to understand both the physical challenges and emotional needs of customers living with inflammatory arthritis. They also saw how we trial different products to ensure that each component, from easy-access showers and walk-in baths to supportive grab rails and temperature-controlled thermostats offers both comfort and usability.

Many of our customers are living with RA or other forms of arthritis. Tasks that most of us take for granted, like stepping into a bathtub, turning on a tap, or standing for a prolonged shower, can become painful and dangerous. That’s where our mobility bathrooms come in. With features like low-threshold shower trays, thermostatically controlled water systems, non-slip flooring, fold­-down seating, and easy-grip handles, we tailor every installation to make bathing a safer, more comfortable experience.

Our partnership with NRAS helps raise awareness of these challenges while highlighting solutions that can truly make a difference. We’re proud to help fund their vital work, and
we’re equally proud to share their message with our own customer base. By collaborating, we amplify each other’s missions to improve quality of life, to support those facing daily physical challenges, and to champion practical changes that can restore independence at home.

We look forward to building on this partnership and finding new ways to support NRAS and the people they serve. As we continue to innovate in the world of accessible bathroom design, we know that charities like NRAS play an invaluable role in educating, advocating, and supporting people living with RA. Together, we can make life a little easier, one bathroom at a time.

Their visit was more than a courtesy call; it was a meeting of minds. We both work with people dealing with pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and the emotional toll that can accompany long-term health conditions. For NRAS, it’s about support, information, and campaigning for better services. For Premier Care, it’s about creating environments
that make daily life less stressful and more manageable.

Questions People with RA Often Ask — and the Encouragement Behind the Answers

“I feel a bit guilty thinking about adapting my bathroom. Does needing extra support mean I’m losing independence?”

Not at all. In fact, it’s the opposite. Making thoughtful changes — whether that’s a grab rail, a shower seat, or a different tap style — is a way of protecting your independence, not surrendering it. These adaptations aren’t about doing less; they’re about making sure you can keep doing things safely, comfortably, and on your own terms. Small adjustments today can give you more freedom tomorrow.

“Is it normal that everyday things like washing or getting in and out of the bath suddenly feel harder than they used to?”

Completely normal — and completely valid. RA can make simple movements feel unexpectedly tricky, especially on flare days. The good news is that modern bathroom design has come a long way. There are clever, discreet solutions that reduce strain without making your home feel clinical. You’re not imagining it, and you’re not alone. With the right tools and layout, those everyday tasks can become easier again.

“I don’t even know where to start. How do I figure out which bathroom changes would actually help me?”

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Occupational therapists, accessibility specialists and even some bathroom retailers can walk you through options based on your specific needs. Sometimes the most helpful changes are surprisingly simple — a different handle, a non‑slip surface, a raised toilet seat. Other times, a full redesign opens up a whole new level of comfort. The important thing is that you’re exploring what works for you, and every step you take is a step toward greater confidence and independence.

Disclaimer: We welcome the support of our corporate partners; this is not an NRAS endorsement of products.

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No matter how big or small your company, there are several ways you can support NRAS. With a charity partnership or charity event, you, your company and your colleagues can help to raise vital funds and awareness of RA and help to support people in the UK who live with the condition and rely on NRAS for support. 

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