Scooters and wheelchairs
If you can't manage to walk as far as you need to, even with a stick, crutches or a walking frame, a scooter or wheelchair may be the solution. You may be able to manage some things with a stick or frame and others may be easier with a scooter or wheelchair.
Some scooters are designed to be driven on the road, and you can use these between your home and the shops for example, but you may have to get off to go indoors. Smaller scooters can be used on the pavement and in shops etc. Some people carry these in the back of the car.
If you need special seating or if you're going to spend long periods in it, a wheelchair is more suitable. Manual wheelchairs are usually light and manoeuvrable. Electric wheelchairs (powerchairs') are heavier, but don't need to be pushed! You can get a wheelchair that you drive yourself or one that someone drives for you.
Getting a scooter or wheelchair
If you need a wheelchair permanently you may get one from the NHS on a long-term loan. Your GP or hospital doctor or social services can refer you to your local wheelchair service. They will work out your needs and provide you with a manual or electric wheelchair if you are eligible.
If you want something more sophisticated than the chair provided by the NHS, they may give you a voucher towards the price of the wheelchair you want. The wheelchair clinic will have to approve your choice.
If you receive the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioner's Mobility Supplement, you can use the Motability scheme (see Financial support) to get a powered wheelchair or scooter.
If you need a wheelchair temporarily you may be able to borrow one from social services or from your local British Red Cross branch (see Shops and Suppliers Shops and suppliers).
In some areas, there are local schemes that lend or hire scooters for a long or short term. Ask your social services. There are Shopmobility schemes (Information and advice) in many UK towns and cities that lend or hire wheelchairs or scooters to use in the town centre for the day. This can be a good way to try a scooter or wheelchair out before you buy one.
Scooters and wheelchairs are expensive and complicated and there is a lot of choice out there, so even if you are buying it yourself you should take advice from your therapist or your local NHS Wheelchair service. There are also other organisations that can give you advice about wheelchairs (try a local Mobility Centre, or Disabled Living Centre - see Information and advice).
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