Yes, you may be able to access a free wheelchair through the NHS but this depends on the outcome of a referral to an NHS wheelchair service.
Even though they are a necessity for many people, wheelchairs are unfortunately expensive. This is why it’s so important to consider every option for funding your wheelchair. This guide will explain some common options, including how you might get a wheelchair for free from the NHS.
How to get a wheelchair from the NHS
To get a wheelchair from the NHS, you will normally need a referral from a healthcare professional like a GP. They should also be able to explain your local wheelchair service and how wheelchairs are supplied in your area. Some wheelchair services will also accept self-referrals.
Once the referral is received by the wheelchair service, they will decide if they can simply send a wheelchair to you, or whether a more clinical assessment of your needs is required.
At an NHS wheelchair assessment, the assessor will find out if you need a wheelchair and recommend one that meets your needs. Unfortunately, the NHS is often only able to provide basic equipment rather than the wheelchair that you want, since this service is focused mainly on meeting essential needs. There can be a long wait time before a free wheelchair is provided.
If you have tried an NHS wheelchair assessment and you aren’t happy, there are other options. For a thorough wheelchair assessment, consider a private wheelchair assessment. At Silver Fern Therapy, we are not associated with any particular wheelchair brand or retailer and can offer an unbiased and impartial assessment of your wheelchair needs and wants.
Even if you disagree with your NHS wheelchair assessment, you may be able to get NHS help with funding a private wheelchair purchase. If you are eligible for an NHS wheelchair, then you should also be eligible for an NHS personal wheelchair budget (not available in Wales). This is an alternative to accepting a free wheelchair provided by the NHS and you can apply even if you had a private assessment.
Can you own free wheelchairs provided by the NHS?
Generally, the NHS wheelchair service will only loan you a wheelchair. It will still be their property and may need to be returned under specific circumstances. The benefit of this is that the NHS will fund any repairs or maintenance, but the chair won’t really be yours.
If you choose to buy your wheelchair privately using a personal wheelchair budget or other funding option, then the wheelchair will belong to you instead.
Other affordable ways to access wheelchairs
Many shopping centres will have a shop mobility scheme where you can temporarily borrow a free wheelchair. While this is not a permanent solution, it may make shopping more accessible while you figure things out.
If you cannot currently afford to buy a wheelchair or you only need one temporarily, hiring a wheelchair may be helpful for you. The Red Cross offers wheelchair hire with no referral needed.
There are also many charities and schemes who can provide wheelchair funding. Check which charities are available in your area and apply. This can be a good option if you would like to purchase a wheelchair privately.
Whichever funding option you choose, a wheelchair assessment is recommended to ensure that your wheelchair is a good fit for you and your lifestyle. It’s important to understand that there are many different types of wheelchairs and they are all different. Our wheelchair assessments help you find a wheelchair that fits your measurements and will work in your environment.
For a wheelchair assessment from experienced and competent wheelchair experts, contact Silver Fern Therapy today.
