NHS Wheelchair Services
Free wheelchair provision through the NHS if you have a long-term need. Try this before buying.
If you need a wheelchair long term, the NHS may provide one free of charge. You need a referral to your local wheelchair service from a GP, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, hospital staff or social services, and in some areas you can refer yourself directly. After an assessment, the NHS loans you the chair and repairs it free of charge; the chair remains NHS property and goes back when you no longer need it. You may also be offered a Personal Wheelchair Budget, which you can top up with your own money to buy a more expensive chair, or spend with an independent supplier. Always start here before paying privately.
Before you commit
- Get a written quotation and never agree to a price on the doorstep or over the phone.
- Take your time. A genuine company will not pressure you with a "today only" discount.
- Ask a family member or friend to sit in on the visit if you can.
- Check whether you qualify for VAT relief, a council grant, or free equipment first.
- You normally have 14 days to cancel an order agreed at home or online, though bespoke fitted items can be an exception — get the cancellation terms in writing.