Buying a Power Chair in the UK
Perhaps most important of all is choosing the correct supplier. In the UK, wheelchair users on a disability allowance should look for motability registered dealers. These dealers are qualified both to sell items free of VAT - which means that those on the allowance can purchase their power chairs 17 ½ percent cheaper than others.
Motability dealers in the UK can also sell power wheelchairs through the non-profit Motability scheme. The payment is then deducted from the disability allowance.
When choosing the correct power wheelchair you also need to take into account your exact needs. If the primary use is to be in the house, then you should choose an indoor/outdoor model.
When choosing the exact model, think about the layout of your house - is it easy to get around, or is there a lot of furniture crammed tightly together? In the latter case, look for an electric wheelchair with a tight turning circle.
While these power chairs do have the capability to travel outside - some come with optional rain covers - if the main purpose is for outdoor mobility then you should consider the outdoor/indoor range. These road-worthy vehicles, which can often cope with rough terrain and most curbs, come equipped with indicators and lights.
If you are going to be traveling a lot then a portable wheelchair is your best bet. Some models can be folded while others can be split into several parts. These portable power wheelchairs will fit into the boots of most cars.
Customers with more specific needs may require a custom wheelchair. This involves choosing a power base which can then be adapted to the customer's exact requirements. by a professional is a must for these custom chairs, although the majority of suppliers will provide automatic assessment for most models.
Again, in the UK Motability approved suppliers are trained to provide assessment to power chair users, and must meet strict ethical and legal requirements in order to remain registered with Motability. During the selling process they must also meet guidelines laid down by the Financial Services Authority.
When browsing for your chair, remember that price, while important, is not the only consideration. You should also consider whether delivery and assessment is included in the price.
A warranty for the term of the purchase agreement is normally provided automatically, but it is worth looking at the price of an extended warranty, as repairs and maintenance can be expensive.
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