How to choose the right wheelchair: NHS, hire or buy your own?

If you or a loved one has limited mobility, a wheelchair can improve your quality of life by allowing you to stay active and do the things you enjoy. 

From manual and electric, to more specialist chairs designed for sports and all terrain, there are plenty of types to pick from. We list the pros and cons of each to help you choose, but it's worth speaking  to a GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist for personalised advice too.

We also cover how and where to rent or buy a wheelchair, as well as information on how to access a free wheelchair from the NHS. 

Please note that we haven't tested any wheelchairs but we do have lots of useful, expert buying advice to get you started. 

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Types of wheelchairs

Wheelchairs can be divided into two main categories: manual wheelchairs and powered or electric wheelchairs.

Manual wheelchairs

If you require a wheelchair all or most of the time for mobility, or can walk – perhaps with a walking stick or frame – but are unable to cope with longer distances, a manual wheelchair might be your best option. The most common types are self-propelled or attendant-propelled. 

Self-propelled manual wheelchairs are designed to be propelled by the user. They have larger back wheels, each with an outer ‘pushrim’ that you turn to control and propel the chair. These wheels generally make for a bulkier chair, which may be trickier to pack into the boot of a car. For this reason, if you’re choosing a self-propelled chair, it's worth looking for one with quick-release wheels. 

Attendant-propelled wheelchairs are designed to be pushed from behind by another person. They generally have smaller back wheels, so are often lighter and easier to transport. They're also easier to navigate and control for the person pushing, although they can prove more challenging than larger-wheeled chairs to mount obstacles such as kerbs.

• Pros: Generally much lighter than electric wheelchairs, good option for those who can walk but need extra support on longer journeys.
• Cons: You’ll need sufficient strength and movement in your arms to use a self-propelled wheelchair. 

Electric wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs - also known as power, electric-assisted or motorised wheelchairs - can be a good investment if you don't have the strength or stamina to use a self-propelled wheelchair, but don’t want to rely on being pushed. They're also useful if you want to take longer journeys in your wheelchair. 

Typically divided into three categories: 'indoor/portable', for use at home or in places with smooth, even flooring such as shopping centres or garden centres. 'Outdoor', with larger wheels and enhanced suspension for dealing with uneven terrain. And 'indoor/outdoor,' which are designed to offer the best of both worlds - these will not be as light as some models, nor as robust as others, but may provide a good balance of features.

The most common type of ‘drive control’ on an electric wheelchair is a joystick mounted on one of the armrests. In theory, these are very simple, although they can sometimes prove difficult to get the hang of.  Some companies offer other types, such as handlebar-style drive controls (similar to a scooter’s, but smaller).

• Pros: If you have limited mobility, or more complex needs, an electric wheelchair could give you more independence. There are also a variety to choose from, depending on how you intend to use it.
• Cons: Tend to be more expensive than manual chairs, and also heavier - this is because the frame has to be robust enough to support the motor. You'll need to make sure they are charged - this can take up to 10 hours. some of the larger outdoor-type wheelchairs may need to be stored outside the home – in a garage, for example. 

Lightweight wheelchairs 

You might want to consider a lightweight wheelchair. These tend to be easy to fold and lighter, making them more convenient to transport in a car. 

Both electric and manual folding and lightweight options are available - but what is right for you depends on your own unique circumstances. 

• Pros: easy to transport, generally much lighter than most manual and electric wheelchairs.
• Cons: can be less robust than fixed frame chairs, may not cater to more complex needs. 

Transit wheelchairs

You may also consider a transit wheelchair - which is essentially a lightweight wheelchair with a narrower frame and small wheels. Generally, they are pushed by an assistant to transport someone short distances, rather than being self-propelled.

• Pros: easier to manoeuvre, lift, fold, and store than other models because they aren't as heavy and have smaller wheels.
• Cons: you'll need someone to push you and they aren't as convenient for longer journeys.

Other types of wheelchair

There are other types of wheelchair available, too - which may be worth considering:

• Sports and active wheelchairs are lightweight and have a wider range of maneuverability. They also come with special features, such as an anti-tip design that comes in handy for sports like wheelchair basketball.
• All terrain wheelchairs tend to be robust with larger wheels that aim to let you seamlessly drive from one terrain to the next, including on grass, sand and snow. 
• Custom wheelchairs are essentially made to measure models. Designed to fit exactly with your body and your needs, you can pick specific features and designs as well as the colour and finish.

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What is the height and width of a standard wheelchair?

Typically, an adult wheelchair will measure around 25 inches wide and 36 inches tall but because there is such a wide range of options, there's no set wheelchair size. 

If you need a chair that's narrower or wider then it's worth talking to a specialist before buying. 

Wheelchair features and accessories

Wheelchairs can often be customised to suit the user. Here are a few of the most common features and accessories: 

• Seats are often available in different lengths, widths and firmness. Cushioning can also be added to give more postural support.
• Footplates and armrests can be adjusted to help you find a comfortable seating position.
• Headrests which provide additional support for your head and neck and offer more comfort. 
• Storage bags are available in different styles, although they’re generally not suitable for carrying large amounts of shopping.
• Wheelchair cushions can provide support and relieve pressure for a more comfortable ride.
• Protection against the elements: a range of wheelchair-specific items are available, such as waterproofs in various styles and leg warmers that cover the lower half of the body like a half-length sleeping bag. The Disabled Living Foundation (DLF) has information about special clothing for wheelchair users. 
• Wheelchair power packs: It’s possible (and relatively easy) to attach a power pack to most manual wheelchairs. This might be useful if you use a self-propelled chair but need to take some of the strain out of manually pushing from time to time. If you do decide to add a power pack, you'll still be able to drive the chair manually when you want to.
• Tyres: There are three main types of tyre: solid; air-filled pneumatic and flat free, which are pneumatic tyres filled with a semi-solid material. Solid tyres tend to be longer lasting, but can give a less comfortable ride than other types. Pneumatic tyres tend to give a more comfortable ride but require more maintenance, including keeping them pumped up. And flat free tyres are designed to be less vulnerable to punctures but they're heavier and can be difficult to change.

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NHS wheelchairs

Most people who need to use a wheelchair all the time have an NHS wheelchair. An NHS wheelchair is loaned, rather than given to you, and the NHS is responsible for its maintenance and repairs.

The NHS wheelchair service offers assessments to determine what type of wheelchair or mobility equipment you may be entitled to. 

In most cases, you’ll be referred to the service by a hospital, doctor, consultant or occupational therapist. However, the specific criteria to determine who is eligible will vary depending on where you live.

Many NHS wheelchair services have a waiting list, so you may have to wait several weeks after referral before you get an assessment. 

In Northern Ireland, wheelchairs that are needed on a day-to-day basis are managed through the occupational therapist services of the local Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust.

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Wheelchair hire

If you need a wheelchair for a shorter time following an operation or injury, you might want to think about wheelchair hire.

You may be able to apply for a wheelchair for short-term use from your local NHS wheelchair service, but they don’t generally hire out wheelchairs for occasional days out.

The Motability Scheme

The not-for-profit Motability Scheme allows people to hire a powered wheelchair, mobility scooter or car for up to three years. To qualify you must receive a government-funded disability allowance – either the Disability Living Allowance, if you already receive that particular benefit; or the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) if you are applying now.

You will receive your wheelchair or mobility scooter in exchange for all or part of your allowance. 

Anyone getting the enhanced-rate mobility component of the PIP can take part in the scheme, providing they have at least 12 months of the award remaining. It’s also open to people receiving the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement.

How Shopmobility could help

Shopmobility is a charity set up to assist people with mobility difficulties – whether through disability, illness or injury – to continue to get around town and city centres.

Anyone who has problems with mobility can access shops and other services through the Shopmobility scheme. Equipment available for hire can include manual and electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters and rollators.

Red Cross wheelchair hire

The Red Cross provides short-term loans of mobility aids such as wheelchairs at almost 1,000 UK outlets, and is known as being the main wheelchair-hire scheme.

As the service is run by volunteers, the Red Cross asks for a donation, and may also require a refundable deposit. Get in touch as early as you can, as your local branch may have a waiting list.

Other short term wheelchair hire options

Many companies, from Center Parcs and zoos to gardens and National Trust properties, also have wheelchairs available to hire on a daily and short term basis, too. They’re usually light, manual wheelchairs that are adequate for a day out where there’s a lot of walking. You’ll need to phone ahead to reserve a wheelchair, as there’s often limited availability.

Long term wheelchair hire

A range of specialist mobility shops also offer long-term wheelchair rentals. You'll need to work out whether that makes sense for you financially though - if you're likely to use it for years, it may be more cost effective to buy. This is especially true of manual chairs, which tend to be more affordable.

Retailers who offer long-term hire include Mobility Hire, Wheel Freedom and RossCare. Bear in mind that if a store is not local to you, you may need to shop online.

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Buying a wheelchair

Rather than loaning you a wheelchair directly, some NHS wheelchair services will give you a non-taxable voucher that you can put towards buying your own wheelchair. The voucher is for the amount you would have been given after your assessment and is designed to give you more choice.

If the maintenance of the wheelchair is the responsibility of the NHS, you’ll have to return it when you no longer need it. But you could opt to pay for wheelchair maintenance privately and keep the chair permanently. 

If you opt to buy a wheelchair without using the NHS, and you’re chronically sick or disabled, you don’t have to pay VAT. You may also be able to get help towards paying for it from charities or your local authority - so it's worth speaking with them first to see if you're eligible.

How much should you spend on a wheelchair?

For an entry level manual wheelchair you can expect to pay around £150.

For a powered wheelchair, you're looking at around £2,000 for a basic model. 

The more functionality and extra features the chair has, the more you'll pay. For example, wheelchairs that offer an 'all terrain' driving experience can cost £10,000 or more. 

Where to buy a wheelchair

You can buy wheelchairs online but, while you might get a good price, you’ll need to be sure you can set up and use it safely. It's also worth trying out the specific type of wheelchair in the place you’re going to use it – for example, at home, on the pavement, or on more challenging terrain. 

Disabled Living Centres have a wide range of equipment that you can test out. They can also give advice on the different styles of wheelchairs for sale. 

Some popular wheelchair retailers include: 

• Argos sells competitively priced manual wheelchairs from just £140. At the time of writing there were 20 different models in stock online, including manual and electric powered wheelchairs with warranties between one and five years. 
• WheelFreedom is a specialist retailer that offers a wide range of manual, electric and active wheelchairs. Prices start at around £270 for a basic manual wheelchair and go up to £13,000 for an outdoor electric wheelchair. 
• CompleteCare stocks manual and electric wheelchairs. Prices range between £100 for entry level models and £24,000 for powered premium models. 
• EssentialAids sells brands including Aidapt, Travelite and Permobil, among others. Prices start from £230 and go up to around £20,000.
• Fenetic Wellbeing has a large range of electric, lightweight, folding, self-propelled, bariatric and transit wheelchairs starting from £144, as well as a huge range of wheelchair parts, accessories and ramps.

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Home adaptations for wheelchair users

If you’re a new user, you may need to make some changes to your home to make it wheelchair accessible. An occupational therapist (OT) can advise you on what adaptations might be necessary - but as a general guide, here's what to consider: 

• Widening your door frames: doors can be awkward for wheelchair users, especially if they have to be approached at an angle. A suitable width is usually 800mm-1,000mm (depending on the size of your chair) but the wider the door width, the easier the access will be.
• Installing a ramp: you may benefit from having a permanent ramp installed outside for access purposes. Or you could consider a portable ramp, which is made of lighter materials and usually less expensive. Find out more about the types of ramps for the home. 
• A downstairs bathroom: If you live in a house with two or more floors, having a properly equipped downstairs bathroom that can accommodate a wheelchair will be very important. Find out more about bathroom adaptations.
• Installing a lift: If your home is on more than one floor, a lift installation may be an option. The space requirements for a lift are usually significant, though.

Ramps and rails for the home - grab rails provide extra confidence when moving about the house and fitting a ramp could help you get around around more freely.