STAIRWAY APPARATUS
An apparatus to assist an individual to ascend or descend a stairway (10) comprises, on either side, support members (16, 22), each having a guide path (34) to accept respective ends (30, 32) of a bar (26), hooked (46) holdfast points (42) being spaced around the distance between treads (12). The individual holds the bar (26) and supports himself by moving the bar (26) between holdfast points. Storage means (58) allow stowage of the bar (26) at the end of the stairway (10). The support members (16, 22) can comprise two guide paths (34B, 34C, 34A, 34D), one above the other, at respective optimal heights for ascending and descending the stairway (10), and can comprise lights (88). Side members (16, 22) are panels (64) provided in flat pack form. Hinge-down extensions (102, 104) permit use onto intermediate landings (94) and around corners (96). The bar (26) comprises a detachable belt (56A) to support the individual if fallen, a sliding end stop (130) to ensure good engagement with the side members (16, 22), an alarm (170), hand grips (28) and transport containers (162, 160).