Mobility Aids and Equipment: Where to Find Second-Hand or Funded Gear
How to obtain mobility equipment safely through NHS, council, charitable, hire and second-hand routes without buying the wrong item.
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance
In brief
The cheapest aid is not good value if it causes pain, falls or cannot be maintained. Begin with the task and environment: what the person needs to do, the space available, transfer ability, body measurements, transport and who will adjust or repair the equipment.
NHS wheelchair services, occupational therapy, community equipment services and social care may provide or prescribe some items. Other equipment may be privately bought, hired, borrowed or funded by a charity. Eligibility and ownership differ, so ask who is responsible for servicing and what happens when needs change.
Get an assessment where fit matters
Wheelchairs, seating, hoists, pressure care and transfer equipment should be assessed by an appropriate professional. Take measurements of doors, steps, storage and vehicles, and explain how the item will be used across the whole day rather than only during a clinic appointment.
Try statutory routes before fundraising
Ask a GP, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, wheelchair service or council team which service supplies the item. Some equipment is loaned rather than owned and must be returned; some adaptations use separate grant routes. Request the written reason if an assessed item is declined.
Buy second-hand with a safety check
Check model, age, user limits, recalls, battery health, brakes, tyres, upholstery, missing parts and service history. Avoid used safety-critical lifting equipment without professional inspection. Confirm that replacement batteries and repairs are still available before paying.
Consider hire and charitable funding
Short-term hire can test whether an aid works or cover recovery and travel. Charities may fund equipment after statutory options are explored, often asking for a professional recommendation, quote, benefit evidence and explanation of the difference the item will make.
Plan maintenance and disposal
Record serial numbers, warranty, supplier and service dates. Ask who repairs breakdowns and whether a temporary replacement is available. When an item is no longer suitable, return loan equipment or use an approved reuse route rather than passing on unsafe gear.
Request an equipment assessment
Use with an occupational therapist or equipment service.
I need help with [task] because [functional difficulty or risk]. The equipment will be used in [home, outdoors, vehicle or work setting], and important measurements or constraints are [details]. Please assess what is safe, explain NHS or council provision, and give written specifications if private or charitable funding is the only route.
A practical checklist
- Define the task and environment before choosing a product.
- Use professional assessment for seating, lifting and pressure needs.
- Check repairs, parts and ownership.
- Inspect second-hand equipment before use.
Check the current information
These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.
nhs.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationgov.uk
Open official informationChoose one next action
You do not need to finish everything today. Find a relevant organisation through National Help, or save the action you want to return to in your Support Plan.
HiddenHelp explains options and helps you organise a next step. It does not decide eligibility, make awards, or replace regulated legal, medical or financial advice.