Funding
Ways to pay for mobility equipment
Equipment that keeps you independent is worth paying for, but it does not always have to come out of your own pocket. Here are the routes people most often use, and how to start.
Start here: VAT relief
For most customers this is the simplest saving of all. If you are disabled or chronically sick and the equipment is designed for someone in your position, it can often be supplied free of VAT — typically a saving of 20% on the price.
It is not automatic, and it depends on both the product and your situation. Our guide explains the rules and how we handle the declaration.
Read the VAT relief guideOne important thing
We can point you in the right direction and help with the paperwork, but eligibility is decided by the scheme or the council — not by us. We will always be straight with you about what you are likely to get.
Benefits that can help
These are not paid to us — they are paid to you, and many people use them towards equipment and adaptations.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For people aged 16 up to State Pension age with a long-term health condition or disability. The mobility component is often what people use towards equipment.
Attendance Allowance
For people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision. It has no mobility component, but it can free up money for equipment and adaptations.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
For children under 16. Families sometimes use the mobility component towards a first wheelchair or scooter.
The rules and rates change. Citizens Advice, Age UK and your local council can confirm what you are entitled to now.
Help from your council
Disabled Facilities Grant
In England, a Disabled Facilities Grant can pay for adaptations that help you live safely at home — stairlifts, ramps, level-access showers and similar work. Grants are means-tested and can be up to £30,000.
You apply through your local council. They usually send an occupational therapist to assess what you need, and the council arranges the work.
Council and NHS equipment
Some equipment is provided directly by the NHS or social services, particularly wheelchairs and bathing aids. Waiting lists and criteria vary a great deal by area.
It is worth asking what is available before you buy, even if you then choose to buy privately for speed or for a better specification.
Charities and schemes
- Veterans’ charities, including the Royal British Legion and SSAFA, offer grants to serving and former members of the armed forces.
- Condition-specific charities — the MS Society, Parkinson’s UK, the Stroke Association and Macmillan among them — often have grants for equipment and home adaptations.
- Age UK and local community groups, parish charities and round tables sometimes fund equipment for people in their own area.
- The Motability Scheme lets people who receive certain mobility benefits exchange that payment for a scooter or powered wheelchair.
Each charity sets its own criteria and has limited funds, so it is worth applying early and asking what they need from you. If you tell us who you are approaching, we are happy to provide a written quote in the format they ask for.
Ways we can bring the cost down
It is always worth asking us what is possible. Depending on what you need and what we have in at the time, there may be a demonstration or refurbished model that does the same job for less. We will tell you honestly what we would do in your position.
We do not offer credit ourselves, and we will never steer you towards borrowing. If you are considering finance, take advice first and make sure the total cost is clear before you sign anything.
No pressure, ever
Not sure what mobility solution is right for you?
Tell us what you are looking for and our team will be happy to discuss the options available — including what we would not recommend for your situation.
We visit customers at home across Hampshire, and there is never any obligation to buy.