Get help with Wheelchair Purchase

You may well be able to obtain help buying a wheelchair using one or more of the following UK schemes.

The Wheelchair Service

The first scheme to contact is the NHS Wheelchair Service run by your health authority. There are no standard criteria – these vary between authorities – but the general principles are the same.

You attend a local Wheelchair Service. Here an occupational therapist or someone similarly qualified assesses your disability and your needs. You also have the chance to talk about funding options, training, and maintenance and repair.

Funding depends on factors decided by each health authority. Ask your local NHS Wheelchair Service for more details.

Voucher Scheme

Some Wheelchair Services run a voucher scheme. Following your assessment, the Wheelchair Service may offer you a standard wheelchair free. Alternatively, the Service may give you a voucher. You can use this as part payment for a more expensive wheelchair supplied by an approved retailer.

With this option, repairs and maintenance are free. You can also use the voucher as part payment for a wheelchair at an independent supplier, but then you’re responsible for at least some of the repair and maintenance costs.

Each voucher lasts for five years. After this time, you can receive a further voucher unless your needs have changed in the meantime.

Motability

If you’re unable, or virtually unable, to walk, you may be eligible to receive mobility payments. These form part of disability living allowance (DLA). To apply for DLA, contact the Department for Work and Pensions.

Once you receive the higher rate mobility component of DLA (or the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement), you can join the Motability Scheme.

Under the scheme, you can use your mobility allowance to obtain a powered wheelchair, a mobility scooter, or even a new car.

Other Schemes

There are organisations such as the Red Cross that support physically disabled people. They may be able to help you with wheelchair funding depending on your circumstances. For contact details, ask the Wheelchair Service. Alternatively, check the independent living charities listed on the government’s public service directgov website.

The Access to Work programme may also be able to offer money towards a wheelchair. Contact your regional Access to Work office, or speak to the Disability Employment Adviser at your local Jobcentre.