British Red Cross Mobility Aids Service (MAS)

The British Red Cross Mobility Aids Service is a national charity service offering short-term wheelchair hire and mobility aids loan across the UK. As the largest national provider of short-term wheelchairs, supplying tens of thousands of wheelchairs every year, it lends manual self-propelled and transit wheelchairs for temporary use during recovery, illness, a holiday, or while someone waits for long-term NHS equipment.

The service is designed to be easy to use. Wheelchairs can be hired for anyone aged five and over, with no GP letter or referral required, and free accessories such as leg elevators, cushions and footrests are included where needed. Hire is on a weekly basis from a modest charge, with delivery and collection options in many areas, and a minimum hire period of one week with no fixed maximum.

Because it is a charity rather than a commercial hire firm, the British Red Cross offers financial assistance to people who cannot meet the cost, and in some areas, including Wales, Northern Ireland, and parts of England such as Hampshire and Norfolk, loans are funded by the NHS or health commissioners and provided free. Any surplus from the service supports the charity’s wider work.

The Mobility Aids Service operates nationally through local British Red Cross centres and partnerships. For anyone who needs a wheelchair for a short period, whether recovering from surgery, leaving hospital, going on holiday or supporting a relative, it offers an accessible, low-cost option without the commitment of buying. People can check availability, costs and how to arrange a wheelchair through the British Red Cross website or its service phone line.

At a glance

• Type: national charity service (British Red Cross, charity no. 220949)
• Service: short-term manual wheelchair hire and mobility aids loan
• Eligibility: anyone aged 5 and over, no GP referral needed
• Cost: modest weekly charge, with financial help for those who cannot pay; free in some funded areas
• Extras: free accessories, delivery and collection options
• Coverage: UK-wide via local centres

Frequently asked questions

What does the British Red Cross Mobility Aids Service offer?

It offers short-term hire of manual self-propelled and transit wheelchairs, and mobility aids loan, for temporary use during recovery, illness, holidays or while waiting for NHS equipment.

Do I need a GP referral?

No. There is no need for a GP letter or referral. The service is open to anyone aged five and over.

How much does it cost?

Hire is charged on a weekly basis from a modest amount, with delivery and collection options in many areas. Financial assistance is available for those who cannot pay, and in some funded areas loans are free.

How long can I hire a wheelchair for?

There is a minimum hire period of one week, with no fixed maximum, so you can keep the wheelchair for as long as you need it short-term.

How do I arrange a wheelchair?

You can check availability and arrange hire through the British Red Cross website or by calling the service line on 0300 456 1914.