Frequently asked questions about wheelchairs
Please find below a list of the most frequently asked questions that we are asked about wheelchairs. They are in no particular order so you can use the search facility to find relevant Q and A's. Simply click on the + to reveal the answers
Wheelchair size & fitting FAQ
A wheelchair users armrest height should be set so that the users elbows are bent at right angles or at 90 degrees. This will provide the most comfortable support for the user.
Posture, support and comfort are essential in a wheelchair. Correct wheelchair width stabilises the sitting position. A snug fit is preferable which promotes support and reduces the chance of discomfort from sores for those who spend long periods in their chair. If the wheelchair is too wide then there is a tendency for the user to lean to one side which can lead to discomfort and in extreme cases it can also lead to instability.
This depends on whether the wheelchair user needs to be able to propel themselves using their feet. If this is the case then their feet will need to contact the ground. To calculate the best seat height, measure the distance from the back of the users knee to their heel. This will allow the user to touch the floor comfortably.
If the users does not need to be able to reach the floor, then the legs should fold at the knee leaving their thighs and lower legs at right angles or 90 degrees.
These are called anti tippers or anti tip wheels and are there to avoid the wheelchair from tilting backwards when tackling obstructions such as curb stones or very steep inclines. They are an important safety, particularly feature for anyone who uses their wheelchair outside.
For manual wheelchairs the rear wheel hand rims need to be within reach of the user. For this reason the rear wheels tend to be between 20" (50cm) and 26" (66cm) in diameter, with 24" (61cm) being the most common. When selecting the appropriate size for the user, both accessibility and propulsion should be considered.
At the front of the wheelchair there are smaller wheels that are also called castors. These wheels pivot to allow the wheelchair to be steered. These wheels tend to be much small and average about 4" to 6" in diameter.
See replacement transit wheelchair wheels here
See solid or puncture proof self propelled wheelchair wheels here
See pneumatic self propelled wheelchair wheels here
Please check that the wheels will fit your wheelchair and if in doubt call us for advise on 0800 6335377
Electric Wheelchair FAQ
Whilst there is no legal obligation to be insured when you use your wheelchair, insurance is strongly recommend insurance for the following reasons: Third Party Liability Cover, if you were to damage some one or their property you may well be liable. Loss / thef - If your wheelchair is lost or stolen then insurance would help to replace it
No, unfortunately powerpacks are not provided by theNHS Wheelchair Service
Yes. Revent UK regulations mandate that airlines must provide assistance to passengers with reduced mobility. Most airlines allow passengers to take their wheelchairs on board the plane, however this takes some arrangement so it is essential to inform the airline in advance. Why not read our blog post on the art of travel for more information
This will depend on the upper body strength and fitness of the wheelchair user. If the user is fairly able bodied from the waist upwards then a manual wheelchair is suitable and will help to retain upper body strength and provide valuable daily exercise. If the user does not have sufficient upper body strength and dexterity then a powerchair or an electric wheelchair should be considered as the better option.
View our range of powerchairs and electric wheelchairs here
See our manual self propelled wheelchairs here
See our transit wheelchairs here
Our wheelchair selection article may also be of interest
Electric wheelchairs or powerchairs as they are also known have many advantages over manual wheelchairs. For a start, they are easier to use and require less effort to operate. They are also often more comfortable and offer enhanced support for the user. Electric wheelchairs and powerchairs are also quicker and can therefore cover more distance than manual wheelchairs although this is restricted by the battery size and charge.
It is not a legal requirement to insure an electric wheelchair or powerchair in the UK. However, electric wheelchairs tend to be expensive so taking out insurance is recommended. Damage to person or property is also possible so it is wise to ensure that any insurance covers these types of 3rd party claim.
Although electric wheelchairs and powerchairs are permitted on pavements and pedestrian zones speed must be adjusted to the conditions and they must not exceed speeds of 4mph (6kph).
Powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters
There is one class of manual wheelchair (called a Class 1 invalid carriage) and two classes of powered wheelchairs and powered mobility scooters. Manual wheelchairs and Class 2 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 4 mph (6 km/h) and are designed to be used on pavements. Class 3 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 8 mph (12 km/h) and are equipped to be used on the road as well as the pavement. To read more on the highway code please click here
If your mobility scooter or powerchair is capable of speeds higher than 4 mph then you need to register and tax the vehicle.
Please click here to view the Government guidance on this subject
Several types of wheelchairs are provided by the NHS in the UK depending on a person's needs and requirements. This can include: Manual or self propelled wheelchairs (standard, lightweight and heavy duty or bariatric) Paediatric wheelchairs (standard, lightweight and heavy duty or bariatric).
Mobility scooters are not generally available on the NHS. However, There are several charities that provide financial assistance or free mobility scooters to individuals in need. These include:
MS Society. To find out more information you can call on 0300 500 8084 or www.mssociety.org.uk
The Mobility Trust. To apply, telephone: 0118 9842588 or www.mobilitytrust.org.uk
The Access to Work (AtW) program For further details, telephone: 0800 121 7479
BLESMA. To apply, telephone: 0208 548 3516 or www.blesma.org
Manual Wheelchair FAQ
We advise all customers to follow the manufacturer's instructions and get the wheelchair serviced by a professional each year. Proper regular maintenance is essential for keeping a wheelchair in good working order. This maintenance involves tyre checks, brake checks, and inspection of all other moving parts. The frame and upholstery should also be checked and cleaned regularly.
Whilst there is no legal obligation to be insured when you use your wheelchair, insurance is strongly recommend insurance for the following reasons: Third Party Liability Cover, if you were to damage some one or their property you may well be liable. Loss / thef - If your wheelchair is lost or stolen then insurance would help to replace it
There are 3 main types of wheelchair available. These include manual or self propelled wheelchairs, transit wheelchairs which require assistance from a caregiver and electric or power wheelchairs (also known as powerchairs), which are motorised and driven by rechargable batteries and controlled using a joystick.
Lightweight wheelchairs generally weigh 14KG's or less. Lightweight wheelchairs are generally made from aluminum and occasionally far more expensive carbon fibre. Because they are light they are easier to manoeuvre and to lift for storage or transportation.
Visit here to see our selection of lightweight wheelchairs
Or you can see all our wheelchairs and use the filters to select the right weight by clicking here for self propelled wheelchairs or here for transit wheelchairs
The manual or self propelled is the most common type of wheelchair. In a manual wheelchair the user propels the chair forwards and backwards using their hands and arms. This type of wheelchair comes with handles which will also allow a second person to push the chair from behind.
If you feel that you would like to understand more about wheelchairs and which model might be best for you and your daily needs why not read our wheelchair buyers guide here
For manual wheelchairs the rear wheel hand rims need to be within reach of the user. For this reason the rear wheels tend to be between 20" (50cm) and 26" (66cm) in diameter, with 24" (61cm) being the most common. When selecting the appropriate size for the user, both accessibility and propulsion should be considered.
At the front of the wheelchair there are smaller wheels that are also called castors. These wheels pivot to allow the wheelchair to be steered. These wheels tend to be much small and average about 4" to 6" in diameter.
See replacement transit wheelchair wheels here
See solid or puncture proof self propelled wheelchair wheels here
See pneumatic self propelled wheelchair wheels here
Please check that the wheels will fit your wheelchair and if in doubt call us for advise on 0800 6335377
This will depend on the upper body strength and fitness of the wheelchair user. If the user is fairly able bodied from the waist upwards then a manual wheelchair is suitable and will help to retain upper body strength and provide valuable daily exercise. If the user does not have sufficient upper body strength and dexterity then a powerchair or an electric wheelchair should be considered as the better option.
View our range of powerchairs and electric wheelchairs here
See our manual self propelled wheelchairs here
See our transit wheelchairs here
Our wheelchair selection article may also be of interest
Electric wheelchairs or powerchairs as they are also known have many advantages over manual wheelchairs. For a start, they are easier to use and require less effort to operate. They are also often more comfortable and offer enhanced support for the user. Electric wheelchairs and powerchairs are also quicker and can therefore cover more distance than manual wheelchairs although this is restricted by the battery size and charge.
No is the answer. It is important that the wheelchair fits the user well and adequate support and comfort are in place. This will sometimes mean that a larger user requires a wider than normal wheelchair. In the UK a standard internal door width is 2'6" or 762mm. Some heavy duty bariatric wheelchairs are wider than UK doorways with overall widths of 32" and more. Please also remember that not all internal doorways are standard and that some doorways can be as narrow as 26".
Narrow wheelchairs
Please check the doorways in your home and workspace and include the external doorways to ensure that your wheelchair will pass through with sufficient space for the users hands on the wheel rims. Narrow wheelchairs are deemed as having a seat width of 16" or less.
Most wheelchairs sold in the UK have either 16" or 18" seat widths and will be fine passing through standard doorways with ease. Why not see our selection of self propelled wheelchairs and transit wheelchairs and use the filters to select the width required. If you need advise on how to measure yourself to see what seat width is required please visit our wheelchair buyers guide here
This will depend upon the individual circumstances of the wheelchair user. In basic terms a wheelchair comprises a seat mounted on two large wheels which are attached towards the rear of the seat and two smaller wheels or castors that are at the front. Other items that are deemed essential are footrests, some form of wheelchair cushion and a good braking system. This can be either attendant operated using push bar handles or by the user whilst seated.
General Wheelchair FAQ
We advise all customers to follow the manufacturer's instructions and get the wheelchair serviced by a professional each year. Proper regular maintenance is essential for keeping a wheelchair in good working order. This maintenance involves tyre checks, brake checks, and inspection of all other moving parts. The frame and upholstery should also be checked and cleaned regularly.
Whilst there is no legal obligation to be insured when you use your wheelchair, insurance is strongly recommend insurance for the following reasons: Third Party Liability Cover, if you were to damage some one or their property you may well be liable. Loss / thef - If your wheelchair is lost or stolen then insurance would help to replace it
We do not repair wheelchairs ourselves but we do use a local company for repairs. Please call us if you have a requirement
There are 3 main types of wheelchair available. These include manual or self propelled wheelchairs, transit wheelchairs which require assistance from a caregiver and electric or power wheelchairs (also known as powerchairs), which are motorised and driven by rechargable batteries and controlled using a joystick.
In mainland UK most public facilities are required by law to be wheelchair friendly and provide wheelchair-accessible facilities which includes ramps. These requirements can be read in The Equality Act 2010 Disability which can be accessed here
We recommended you to check with the relevant transport provider for any guidelines, but in general most types of public transport in the UK are wheelchair accessible including buses, coaches, and trains.
Yes, many find benefits in ensuring that each door's width is sufficient to allow wheelchair users in and out. Wheelchair ramps are also used where steps are found. Sometimes, more specific bathroom adaptations have to be in place. Very often, families with a wheelchair user opt for bungalow accommodation.
Wheelchairs go as far back as 526CE when Chinese craftsmen, the first sighting of a chair on wheels however it was not capable of being self propelled. Then, the first folding wheelchair made from steel tubing, something more familiar to the modern day wheelchair, was created in the 1930s by Henry Jennings.
Yes. Revent UK regulations mandate that airlines must provide assistance to passengers with reduced mobility. Most airlines allow passengers to take their wheelchairs on board the plane, however this takes some arrangement so it is essential to inform the airline in advance. Why not read our blog post on the art of travel for more information
This largely depends on the wheel size and the weight of the wheelchair and user. Generally speaking, wheelchairs with larger wheels are easier to push and will cope with rough or loose surfaces better. Front wheels, also called castors are the wheels that swivel to allow manoeuvrability. A chair with larger diameter castors will be easier to push. Something to check is that any wheelchair brakes are fully released if you are having problems pushing a wheelchair. Self propelled wheelchairs have larger rear wheels which also helps.
Wheelchair seat size is the most important factor. To determine what seat width you require you'll need to measure the person's hips from one side to the other, then add one inch to this measurement to select a proper wheelchair seat width. To determine the most suitable seat depth, you'll need to measure from the back of the hip to the back of the knee of the person while seated. Then, subtract one inch from this measurement.
A wheelchair users armrest height should be set so that the users elbows are bent at right angles or at 90 degrees. This will provide the most comfortable support for the user.
Height-adjustable arm rests are recommended for all users as this allows the arm rest to be set at the correct height for comfort and support. This is done by measuring from the users elbow to the seat of the chair while the person is holding their arms up with their elbows bent at a ninety-degree angle
For many users standard or fixed foot rests are adequate. However, if the user suffers from edema, swelling or injury, then an elevating footrest is preferable to allow the users leg(s) to be fully extended and slightly raised.
Anti tip wheels or anti tippers as they are sometimes referred to are a good idea on any wheelchair and are intended to reduce unwanted backward tipping of the wheelchair and help the user to stay secure and stable when challenged with obstructions.
Anti tippers are often height adjustable and should be set to limit the angle at which the wheelchair can safely be inclined without risk of the chair toppling backwards.
According to the World Health Organization, a wheelchair is appropriate when it meets the user’s needs and their environmental conditions. It must provides proper fit and postural support and be safe and durable. Visit the WHO web site for more information
Read our guides on selecting a wheelchair here or our wheelchair buyers guide here
This will depend largely on the users age and fitness levels. The younger and more able you are the easier it will be to use a self propelled wheelchair that allows you full control by using the wheelchair hand rims to navigate forward, backwards, and steer.
If the wheelchair user has restricted movement and control of the upper body then they will require either a transit wheelchair which is propelled by another person or an electric wheelchair which allows them to navigate themselves using a joystick to control their movements.
Why not see our other articles on selecting a wheelchair and our wheelchair buying guide here
Lightweight wheelchairs generally weigh 14KG's or less. Lightweight wheelchairs are generally made from aluminum and occasionally far more expensive carbon fibre. Because they are light they are easier to manoeuvre and to lift for storage or transportation.
Visit here to see our selection of lightweight wheelchairs
Or you can see all our wheelchairs and use the filters to select the right weight by clicking here for self propelled wheelchairs or here for transit wheelchairs
The manual or self propelled is the most common type of wheelchair. In a manual wheelchair the user propels the chair forwards and backwards using their hands and arms. This type of wheelchair comes with handles which will also allow a second person to push the chair from behind.
If you feel that you would like to understand more about wheelchairs and which model might be best for you and your daily needs why not read our wheelchair buyers guide here
Like most things in life, the more you spend the better wheelchair you will get. You want to consider the amount of time each day that the wheelchair will be in use. If it is for occasional use then a cheaper less comfortable wheelchair may be acceptable.
These can cost from as little as £100 including delivery and can be as much as £1000 for a high quality manual wheelchair. If the user is likely to spend several hours each day in the wheelchair then it is advisable to spend more money to ensure that adequate levels of support and comfort are available to the user.
Budget wheelchairs
See our budget wheelchairs here or use the filters to sort the wheelchairs by cost. All our wheelchairs come with free delivery which will help to keep the overall costs down.
It is possible that you are eligible for an NHS wheelchair and or a voucher towards your wheelchair purchase. Why not read this FAQ to understand more
This will depend on the upper body strength and fitness of the wheelchair user. If the user is fairly able bodied from the waist upwards then a manual wheelchair is suitable and will help to retain upper body strength and provide valuable daily exercise. If the user does not have sufficient upper body strength and dexterity then a powerchair or an electric wheelchair should be considered as the better option.
View our range of powerchairs and electric wheelchairs here
See our manual self propelled wheelchairs here
See our transit wheelchairs here
Our wheelchair selection article may also be of interest
Electric wheelchairs or powerchairs as they are also known have many advantages over manual wheelchairs. For a start, they are easier to use and require less effort to operate. They are also often more comfortable and offer enhanced support for the user. Electric wheelchairs and powerchairs are also quicker and can therefore cover more distance than manual wheelchairs although this is restricted by the battery size and charge.
No is the answer. It is important that the wheelchair fits the user well and adequate support and comfort are in place. This will sometimes mean that a larger user requires a wider than normal wheelchair. In the UK a standard internal door width is 2'6" or 762mm. Some heavy duty bariatric wheelchairs are wider than UK doorways with overall widths of 32" and more. Please also remember that not all internal doorways are standard and that some doorways can be as narrow as 26".
Narrow wheelchairs
Please check the doorways in your home and workspace and include the external doorways to ensure that your wheelchair will pass through with sufficient space for the users hands on the wheel rims. Narrow wheelchairs are deemed as having a seat width of 16" or less.
Most wheelchairs sold in the UK have either 16" or 18" seat widths and will be fine passing through standard doorways with ease. Why not see our selection of self propelled wheelchairs and transit wheelchairs and use the filters to select the width required. If you need advise on how to measure yourself to see what seat width is required please visit our wheelchair buyers guide here
A good wheelchair will offer additional features designed to make the users daily life as comfortable and accessible as possible. Users requirements will differ so we suggest reading wheelchair buyers guide.
This will depend upon the individual circumstances of the wheelchair user. In basic terms a wheelchair comprises a seat mounted on two large wheels which are attached towards the rear of the seat and two smaller wheels or castors that are at the front. Other items that are deemed essential are footrests, some form of wheelchair cushion and a good braking system. This can be either attendant operated using push bar handles or by the user whilst seated.
Like most things in life, the more you spend the better wheelchair you will get. You want to consider the amount of time each day that the wheelchair will be in use. If it is for occasional use then a cheaper less comfortable wheelchair may be acceptable. These can cost from as little as £100 including delivery and can be as much as £1000 for a high quality manual wheelchair. If the user is likely to spend several hours each day in the wheelchair then it is advisable to spend more money to ensure that adequate levels of support and comfort are available to the user.
Please browse our selection of manual and electric wheelchairs by clicking on the links below:
Self propelled manual wheelchairs
If you only need a wheelchair for a short period following an injury or operation and you want to spend less please look at our budget wheelchairs by clicking here
If you are eligible, then The NHS Wheelchair Service provides wheelchairs at no charge to people who need a wheelchair full time. However accessing a wheelchair can take a while with approximately 70 per cent of new wheelchair users waiting more than three months to get their wheelchair and 15 per cent of people waiting over 12 months. If you are needing a wheelchair sooner than this and are able to it may be worth renting or buying an inexpensive model while you wait. It can then be sold as a used wheelchair when it is no longer needed, or kept as a spare for use elsewhere.
See our selection of budget wheelchairs here
When we are asked this question, we urge people to read our wheelchair buyers guide by clicking here. You may also find this article on wheelchair selection useful.
This will depend on your strength and ability but for some users who retain some mobility in their legs and can walk then a walking aid such as a rollator is a good solution. Walking aids are less bulky than a wheelchair and are therefore easier to manoeuvre in smaller spaces.
Walking Aids
If you are able to use a walking aid, then the main considerations you need to make are is it for indoor and or outside use and what are your stability needs. Walking aids come in many shapes and sizes including rollators, tri-walkers and trolley walkers.
Your GP is a good place to start to get a wheelchair. A GP will assess your needs or refer you to a Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist who will assess your needs.
The local NHS wheelchair service will then recommend the most suitable type of wheelchair and in some cases supply it direct or will issue a voucher to enable you to buy a wheelchair yourself. Once you know which type of wheelchair is the most suited to your needs, you can take a look at our popular range of self propelled wheelchairs, transit wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs which can be delivered to your home next day for free in most cases.
If you would like further assistance in choosing the most suitable model then please feel free to call our knowledgeable staff on 0800 6335377
No you cannot, however much mobility equipment including wheelchairs are available to rent to those eligible at very reasonable rates. You can visit their site by clicking here where you will see a selection of mobility equipment available to hire. They also offer servicing facilities and a collection drop off service where suitable.
If this doesn't work for you then please feel free to visit budget wheelchair category where we offer a selection of new quality wheelchairs at low prices.
If you have a long-term wheelchair requirement and you are in a position to buy a wheelchair this is the preferred solution rather than relying on an NHS wheelchair. This will allow you to select a model that is best suited to your requirements. If you only have a short term requirement following an injury or surgical procedure then wheelchair hire is another option.
We suggest that you see how wheelchair selection guide here. Where you will see reference to self propelled wheelchairs and transit wheelchairs as well as electric wheelchairs.
Personal wheelchair budgets were introduced to try to improve on the wheelchair voucher scheme. These budgets enable a higher level of care including assessing postural and mobility needs of the user as part of a wider care planning. Ultimately the budget scheme can provide access a wider choice of wheelchairs. Local eligibility criteria applies for wheelchairs and can be seen here on the NHS website
This is calculated on an individual basis and includes assessment of the persons postural and mobility needs. Money from other sources can be used to supplement this amount which can in some cases allow the purchase of a better wheelchair. We suggest that you consult the NHS website for more information on this subject by clicking here.