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Wheelchairs

Explore our full wheelchair guides, reviews and comparisons. Find the right wheelchair for your needs, from manual to electric.

Browse Wheelchairs

Explore our guides, reviews and comparisons.

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Wheelchairs for Heavier People

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Wheelchair vs Scooter

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What’s Right for Me?

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Guide to Using a Wheelchair

Wheelchair Blog Posts

Latest guides, reviews and advice.

Choosing the Right Wheelchair

Finding a wheelchair that fits your lifestyle is about much more than simply picking one off the shelf. The right choice depends on how active you are, where you will use it, and whether you need a self-propelled, attendant-pushed, or powered model. Understanding the options available helps ensure comfort, safety, and independence.

Manual vs Powered Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs suit users who have good upper body strength or have a carer to push them. They are lighter, easier to transport, and generally more affordable. Powered wheelchairs are ideal for users who need to travel longer distances or lack the strength to self-propel. They use rechargeable batteries and often come with programmable controls for different driving modes.

Wheelchair Sizing and Comfort

A properly fitted wheelchair is essential for posture and pressure management. Key measurements include seat width, seat depth, backrest height, and footrest length. Many suppliers offer assessment services to ensure the chair fits correctly. Cushions play a major role in comfort, with options ranging from foam to gel to air-filled designs for pressure relief.

Funding Your Wheelchair

The NHS provides basic wheelchairs through local wheelchair services, though waiting times can be long. The Motability scheme offers powered wheelchairs and scooters through a lease arrangement. Charitable organisations such as Whizz-Kidz (for children) and the British Red Cross (short-term loans) can also help. VAT exemption applies to wheelchairs purchased by or for disabled people.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a wheelchair through the NHS?
Ask your GP or hospital consultant for a referral to your local wheelchair service. An assessment will determine eligibility and the most suitable chair for your needs. The service covers basic models, but you may be able to top up for a higher-spec chair through a personal wheelchair budget.
Can I take a wheelchair on a plane?
Yes, airlines are required to carry wheelchairs free of charge. Manual wheelchairs are stored in the hold. Powered wheelchairs must have the battery disconnected or removed, and you should notify the airline in advance so they can make arrangements.
How long do powered wheelchair batteries last?
Most powered wheelchairs travel 10 to 25 miles on a single charge, depending on the battery size and terrain. Batteries typically last 1 to 2 years before needing replacement. Charging overnight is recommended for daily users.
What is the weight limit for wheelchairs?
Standard wheelchairs support up to around 18 stone (115 kg). Heavy-duty or bariatric models are available for users up to 35 stone (225 kg) or more, with reinforced frames and wider seats.

Wheelchair Companies A to Z

Listed A to Z, not ranked. We only rank companies when enough of them have at least 3 reviews, with at least one from the last 18 months, and this category is not there yet. No company can pay for a place on this list, to improve a score, or to remove a review. How we check reviews.

263 companies listed111 reviewsAverage rating 4.1/5

Access Card

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📍 Derby
Wheelchair

The Access Card is a nationally recognised photo ID scheme designed to help disabled people communicate their access requirements quickly and clearly when visiting…

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Types of Wheelchair Explained

Choosing the right wheelchair depends on your mobility needs, lifestyle and how you plan to use it.

Manual Transit Wheelchairs

Transit wheelchairs have small rear wheels and are pushed by a carer. They cost £150 to £400 and suit occasional use.

Manual Self-Propelled Wheelchairs

Self-propelled chairs have large rear wheels with push rims for independent movement. Lightweight aluminium models cost £350 to £1,000. Active-user chairs made from titanium or carbon fibre cost £1,000 to £4,500.

TypePriceBest For
Transit£150-£400Occasional use, pushed by carer
Self-propelled£350-£1,000Regular independent use
Active-user£1,000-£4,500Full-time, active lifestyle
Standard powered£1,500-£4,000Cannot self-propel
Complex powered£4,000-£15,000+Specialist postural support

Powered Wheelchairs

Powered wheelchairs use electric motors controlled by a joystick. Standard models cost £1,500 to £4,000 with 10 to 15 miles range. Complex needs chairs (£7,000 to £15,000+) include tilt-in-space and specialist seating.

Getting a Wheelchair Through the NHS

The NHS provides wheelchairs free of charge for long-term mobility needs expected to last more than 6 months. Ask your GP or consultant for a referral. All repairs and maintenance are covered. Request a Personal Wheelchair Budget to top up the NHS contribution towards a higher-spec chair.

Costs and Funding

Manual chairs range from £150 to £4,500. Powered chairs from £1,500 to £15,000. The Motability Scheme covers powered wheelchairs via PIP. Buy at 0% VAT if disabled. For full pricing, see our Wheelchair Costs guide.

Top UK Wheelchair Brands

Sunrise Medical (Quickie) is the market leader for active-user chairs. Invacare is a major NHS supplier. Karma Mobility offers excellent value. Drive DeVilbiss provides budget-friendly options. Permobil specialises in high-end powered chairs.

Running Costs

Manual wheelchairs have minimal running costs. Powered wheelchairs cost £15 to £40 per year to charge. Batteries need replacing every 1 to 2 years (£100 to £500). Annual servicing costs £50 to £150.