UK Accessible Mobility Equipment Hire: The Ultimate Guide to Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Hire/Rental

Types of Manual & Electric Wheelchairs Available for Hire:

1. Manual Wheelchairs:

• Description: Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or by someone pushing the wheelchair from behind. They are commonly available for hire due to their versatility and relatively low maintenance requirements.
• Pros:
  • Lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport.
    Simple design with fewer mechanical parts, reducing the risk of malfunctions.
  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, offering manoeuvrability in various environments.
• Cons:
  • Dependence on the user's upper body strength for propulsion, which may not be suitable for individuals with limited strength or stamina.
  • Less stability compared to power wheelchairs, particularly on uneven terrain.

2. Power Wheelchairs:

• Description: Power wheelchairs are electric powered and controlled via a joystick or other input devices. They offer greater independence and mobility for users who may have limited physical strength.
• Pros:
  • Powered propulsion reduces the physical effort required by the user, suitable for individuals with limited upper body strength or mobility.
    Enhanced maneuverability and control, with some models
  • equipped for outdoor use on rough terrain.
  • Adjustable seating options for improved comfort and posture support.
• Cons:
  • Heavier and bulkier compared to manual wheelchairs, which may pose challenges for transportation and storage.
  • Dependence on battery power, requiring regular charging and potential limitations on usage time.
  • Higher maintenance costs due to the complexity of electrical components.

3. Transport Wheelchairs:

• Description: Transport wheelchairs are lightweight and compact, designed primarily for transportation rather than self-propulsion. They are commonly used for short trips or transfers.
• Pros:
  • Lightweight and foldable design for easy storage and transport, suitable for travel and occasional use.
  • Compact dimensions allow for manoeuvrability in tight spaces, such as narrow doorways or aisles.
    Often more affordable compared to traditional manual or power wheelchairs.
• Cons:
  • Limited features and adjustments compared to standard wheelchairs, which may compromise comfort for long-term use.
  • Lack of self-propulsion options, requiring assistance from a caregiver or companion for mobility.
  • Not suitable for individuals requiring customised seating or postural support.

Considerations for Wheelchair Hire:

Duration of Use: Determine whether the wheelchair will be needed for short-term or long-term use. Many hire services offer flexible rental options to accommodate varying needs.

User's Mobility Needs: Assess the user's mobility limitations, strength, and preferences to determine the most suitable type of wheelchair. Consider factors such as terrain, indoor vs. outdoor use, and frequency of use.

Comfort and Fit: Ensure the wheelchair provides adequate comfort and support for the user. Adjustable seating options, cushioning, and postural support are essential considerations, especially for long-term use.

Accessibility: Choose a wheelchair model that meets accessibility requirements for transportation and usage in different environments, such as public buildings, vehicles, and outdoor spaces.

Budget and Insurance: Consider the cost of wheelchair hire, including any additional fees for delivery, maintenance, or insurance coverage. Explore options for financial assistance or insurance reimbursement, especially for individuals with disabilities.

Maintenance and Support: Inquire about maintenance services and technical support offered by the hire service provider. Ensure access to repairs, replacements, and emergency assistance as needed throughout the rental period.

Types of Scooters Available for Hire:

1. Travel Scooters:

• Description: Travel scooters are lightweight and compact, designed for easy transport and manoeuvrability, particularly in tight spaces and on public transport. They often feature folding mechanisms for convenient storage and transportation.
• Pros:
  • Travel scooters are easily disassembled or folded, making them suitable for travel and outings.
  • Their compact size allows for easy navigation in crowded areas, such as shopping centres or public transportation.
  • Ideal for short trips or excursions, travel scooters offer a balance of performance and portability.
• Cons:
  • Due to their smaller size and battery capacity, travel scooters may have a shorter range compared to larger models.
  • They may not provide the same level of stability and comfort as larger scooters, especially on rough terrain.

2. Mid-Size Scooters:

• Description: Mid-size scooters strike a balance between portability and performance, offering a blend of comfort, manoeuvrability, and range. They are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and often come with additional features for user convenience.
• Pros:
  • Mid-size scooters are well-suited for a variety of environments, including pavements, parks, and shopping centres.
  • They typically feature larger seats, adjustable armrests, and suspension systems for enhanced comfort during longer journeys.
  • With larger batteries and more powerful motors, mid-size scooters offer extended range compared to travel scooters.
• Cons:
  • While more portable than heavy-duty scooters, mid-size scooters may still be challenging to transport in smaller vehicles or store in tight spaces.
  • They often come with a higher price tag compared to travel scooters, reflecting their enhanced features and performance.

3. Heavy-Duty Scooters:

• Description: Heavy-duty scooters, also known as class 3 scooters, are designed for users who require maximum performance, durability, and stability. They are suitable for outdoor use on varied terrain and offer advanced features for comfort and safety.
• Pros:
  • Heavy-duty scooters are built to withstand rugged terrain and heavier loads, making them ideal for outdoor activities and longer journeys.
  • They often come equipped with features such as full suspension, pneumatic tyres, and high-back seats for superior comfort and support.
  • Heavy-duty scooters can accommodate higher weight capacities, providing accessibility for a broader range of users.
• Cons:
  • Due to their robust construction and larger dimensions, heavy-duty scooters may be less practical for indoor use or transport in smaller vehicles.
  • The advanced features and components of heavy-duty scooters may require more frequent maintenance and servicing, leading to higher operational costs.

Considerations for Hiring a Mobility Scooter:

User Requirements: Assess the user's mobility needs, including the intended usage environment, distance to be traveled, and any specific comfort or accessibility requirements.

Portability: Consider the ease of transporting and storing the scooter, especially if frequent travel or use in confined spaces is anticipated.

Safety Features: Look for scooters equipped with safety features such as lights, reflectors, and adjustable speed settings to ensure user safety, particularly in low-light conditions or busy areas.

Battery Life and Charging: Evaluate the scooter's battery capacity and charging time to ensure it meets the user's daily mobility requirements without interruption.

Trial Period: Some hire services offer trial periods or demonstrations to allow users to test different scooter models and determine the most suitable option before making a commitment.

Companies Offering Hire Equipment

LendoCare

Description: An online website to give mobility access to all, for long or short term hire you will have peace of mind making a booking with LendoCare. Our goal is to help provide you with the equipment you need so you can continue enjoying yourself. At LendoCare we've got you covered.

Products Available:

• Manual Wheelchairs
• Electric Wheelchairs
• Walking Aids

Pros:

• Online booking
• Next day delivery
• No minimum hire solutions

Cons:

• No showroom
• Electric wheelchairs and walking aids only delivered in London, UK delivery coming soon

Red Cross Wheelchair Hire

Description: Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or by someone pushing the wheelchair from behind. They are commonly available for hire due to their versatility and relatively low maintenance requirements.

Products Available:

• Manual Wheelchairs

Pros:

• Hire a wheelchair

Cons:

• Delivery and collection dates are limited
• No powerchairs or electric wheelchairs available
• Prices don't decrease on a long term basis

Wheelfreedom

Description: Manual wheelchairs are propelled by the user or by someone pushing the wheelchair from behind. They are commonly available for hire due to their versatility and relatively low maintenance requirements.

Products available:

• Manual Wheelchairs with Powerpack for Manual Wheelchairs
• Bariatric Range
• Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs
• Childrens Wheelchairs

Pros:

• Showroom open to the public

Cons:

• 2 week minimum hire
• Powerchair delivery is limited
• Expensive delivery fees

Mobility Hire

Description: Rent mobility equipment for delivery across the UK. Long-term hire and short-term hire available.

Products Available:

• Manual Wheelchairs
• Electric Wheelchairs
• Mobility Scooters

Pros:

• Wide range of mobility aids equipment and specialist equipment

Cons:

• 2 weeks minimum hire on all products
• Mobility scooter hire has an expensive delivery fee