Mobility Furniture Grants
Mobility furniture can make all the difference to your comfort and wellbeing. And with grants available for mobility beds and chairs, these aids can be more affordable than ever. Here’s all you need to know.
Your guide to mobility furniture grants in the UK
Are you or a loved one in need of mobility furniture but concerned about the cost? SpotDif is here to guide you through a sea of possibilities, making sure you find the perfect fit without draining your wallet.
Mobility beds and chairs can be an excellent way to support your wellbeing and regain your independence. However, these aids can be expensive. Fortunately, there are some excellent grants and financial support options to help make mobility furniture more affordable. If you’re looking for a mobility bed or rise and recline chair, we recommend exploring our guide to mobility furniture grants to see what support you might be eligible for.
So keep reading for information on government grants and funding options from charities and private foundations.
Once you know what you’re eligible for, we suggest trying our price comparison tool to help you get the most out of your budget, our price comparison expertise is here to assist. With a few clicks, you can explore various options from trusted mobility furniture providers from across the UL.
Are you interested in a chair or a bed?
If you're not sure, don't worry, your provider will be able to guide you through this decision.
How can a mobility chair or bed help in your day-to-day life?
Curious about the impact of mobility chairs and beds? These pieces of furniture can be game-changers for individuals dealing with disabilities or limited mobility. Mobility chairs, for instance, can play an important role in a range of daily tasks, providing more freedom to move around, engage in social activities, and maintain autonomy.
Mobility beds can also support you as you rest and recover, creating an environment that fosters comfort and accessibility and helps you get a good night’s sleep.
Can I get a mobility bed or chair on the NHS?
While not universally available, the NHS does lend a hand to individuals grappling with long-term mobility issues. Eligible individuals can access free-of-charge mobility chairs and beds, provided on a loan basis.
It's important to note that, although you can keep the equipment long-term, it remains NHS property.
How to borrow a mobility aid from the NHS
To access an NHS-funded mobility chair or bed, you’ll need a referral from a healthcare professional, such as your GP.
Obtaining NHS mobility aids may seem long-winded, but it's a feasible process. Understanding the criteria can help you navigate the application process more easily. We recommend speaking with a healthcare professional and carefully documenting your needs to help showcase how much a mobility aid will help you.
From rise and recline chairs and paediatric mobility chairs to specialised seating beds, the NHS has an array of mobility aids on offer and your healthcare professional can help you find the right one for your needs.
Remember, while borrowing a mobility bed or hair from the NHS, you’ll need to keep it clean and in good condition. If it needs any repairs, you can contact your local mobility service.
Government grants for mobility aids
While the NHS is a valuable resource, you might like to opt for a more personalised mobility solution. If this is the case, buying a mobility chair or bed privately can be the best route — and, luckily, there are some excellent alternative funding options to help with the cost.
The UK government offers several financial schemes to assist those with limited mobility.
Are you interested in a chair or a bed?
If you're not sure, don't worry, your provider will be able to guide you through this decision.
Disabled Facilities Grants
You might be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant if you have a permanent disability and need to adapt your home to make daily activities easier and safer. These grants can help you with the cost of mobility furniture if it is necessary to help you with daily activities and improve accessibility in your home.
This might include items like rise and recline chairs, adjustable beds, or other specialised furniture designed to assist with mobility and comfort.
The grant can cover the cost of these essential pieces of equipment as long as they are part of a broader plan to make your home more accessible and manageable. When applying, you'll need to demonstrate how the mobility furniture will help address your specific needs and enhance your quality of life.
Amount available:
The good news is that you can receive up to £30,000 in England or £36,000 in Wales, to help with these modifications, though the exact amount can vary based on your needs and financial situation.
Mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
While the Disability Living Allowance isn’t specifically a mobility furniture grant, it can contribute towards purchasing a mobility chair or bed. The mobility component of the DLA is designed to support those who have difficulties with walking as well as individuals with no feet or legs.
It can also support people who need assistance outside due to being Deaf and blind or visually impaired.
Amount available:
With the mobility component of the DLA, you can receive up to £75.75 per week.
VAT Exemption Scheme
If you have a disability and require support from a mobility chair or bed at home, you won’t need to pay VAT on them. There are some specifications to bear in mind:
You can get VAT relief on riser-recliner (lift and tilt) chairs but not recliner-only chairs. It must have the lift or tilt feature.
To get 0% VAT on a mobility bed, it must clearly be designed for use by those with disabilities. This usually means it will be height-adjustable and have cot sides.
The VAT exemption only applies to mattresses that are supplied with a mobility bed and are designed solely for use by individuals with disabilities.
Amount available:
You won’t get a lump sum but the usual VAT will be removed from the cost of your mobility bed or chair.
The VAT exemption scheme also applies to stairlifts.
Mobility grants in Scotland: Equipment and Adaptations Grant
In Scotland, there's good news for those facing mobility challenges and hoping to purchase a mobility chair or bed — the Equipment and Adaptations Grant.
This grant steps in to improve your quality of life, giving you more freedom and independence in your daily movements. It’s a versatile scheme, covering various needs, from stairlifts and ramps to bathroom adaptations — plus mobility chairs and beds.
Amount available:
While the exact amount offered can vary based on individual circumstances, the grant aims to cover the costs associated with essential home adaptations and the purchase of mobility aids.
For example, homeowners may be able to claim 80% to 100% of the cost of their home adaptations.
Charitable organisations and funds for mobility support
When it comes to funding for essential mobility aids like chairs and beds, there's a friendly hand waiting to assist you. Charities and non-profit organisations step in to offer a helping hand, making sure you can access the necessary resources even when traditional financing options may not be an immediate option.
So, if you find yourself in need, these organisations are here to support you on your journey to improved mobility and well-being.
Independence at Home
With a rich 57-year legacy, Independence at Home stands as a beacon among charitable organisations, dedicated to improving the lives of those facing mobility challenges. Beyond being a registered charity, they extend grants and financial aid for mobility chairs and beds, promoting independence and dignity.
The uniqueness of their approach lies in tailoring support to individual circumstances, not just providing financial assistance but also fostering a sense of empowerment, independence, and autonomy.
Since April 2023, this organisation has supported nearly 1400 people with grants totalling over £522,000. And throughout the charity’s lifespan, over 44,000 people nationwide have been positively impacted, with grants covering diverse needs, from powered wheelchairs to riser-recliner chairs and accessible shower rooms.
Amount available: Grant amounts vary based on the specific equipment or construction requirements, typically ranging from £200 to £600. The average grant stands at £350.
It’s important to note that Independence at Home only accepts grant applications from health or social care professionals, or advisors or support workers from other organisations or charities. As such, it’s best to speak with one of these professionals for application support.
Hospital Saturday Fund
The Hospital Saturday Fund offers individual grants to help people with mobility issues purchase:
Mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, rise-recline chairs, orthopaedic beds, and other equipment.
Home adaptations for improving accessibility, like ramps or stairlifts.
Medical equipment, including specialised devices that improve quality of life.
To apply for a grant, you usually need a referral from a health professional or a recognised charity.
Amount available: Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, so the exact amount and type of support can vary. However, you may be able to receive up to £6,000.
Florence Nightingale Aid in Sickness Trust
The Florence Nightingale Aid in Sickness Trust is on a mission to comprehensively address the needs of individuals dealing with illness, poor health, or disability. Their consideration spans various age groups, focusing on providing meaningful assistance.
From manual and electric wheelchairs to orthopaedic mattresses and communication aids, they cater to a wide range of equipment needs, fostering an improved quality of life.
- Amount available: Individuals can receive mobility furniture and other grants of up to £500.
Finding the right mobility chair or bed for your needs
Even if you’re able to get financial support, remember that discovering the perfect mobility chair or bed involves more than merely looking at the price tag. It's about understanding your current needs and looking ahead to the future. We recommend thinking of your mobility furniture as a long-term investment in your comfort and well-being — a design that can adapt as life changes around you.
Think about additional features
We suggest looking for features such as adjustable height, tilt-in-space functions, and pressure relief technology. These are the ingredients for a cosier, healthier life. The right mobility aid can become a seamless part of your lifestyle, enhancing your overall well-being.
Get expert advice
But with so many options, it can feel like navigating a maze. That's where the experts come in. We always recommend seeking advice from healthcare professionals and specialised vendors who know their stuff.
They'll offer personalised recommendations based on your unique needs and help you explore funding opportunities, making these life-changing investments more accessible.
Embrace the power of community
Why not connect with support networks of folks facing similar mobility challenges? Their insights and experiences can guide you in finding the perfect fit for your needs. Remember, the perfect mobility chair or bed can help you create a more comfortable and independent life.
Are you interested in a chair or a bed?
If you're not sure, don't worry, your provider will be able to guide you through this decision.
Find the right mobility chair or bed for your needs with SpotDif
Experience the ease of comparison with SpotDif. Tailor your choice to fit your needs, and we’ll help you find a mobility chair or bed provider so you can get the best deal at a great price.
We’re here to help you confidently select a mobility bed or chair that aligns with your unique needs while keeping a keen eye on your budget constraints. Start your search for the best mobility chairs and beds today with our handy comparison tool.
Last updated on 16 Oct 2024 Last updated on 16 Oct 2024