Wheelchairs

If it’s difficult for you to move around your home, even for a short time, or if you find it difficult to walk short distances such as to the shops or post office, you may find a wheelchair useful.

How do I get a wheelchair?

If you think you would benefit from using a wheelchair, you need to contact your local GP or district nurse or social worker if you have one. They will contact the wheelchair service and arrange a occupational therapist or physiotherapist to visit you at home, in hospital or your residential home to assess your needs.

How much will it cost?

Wheelchairs are provided by the National Health Service (NHS) free of change for as long as they are needed. They will supply you with a chair that fits your needs.

The NHS has a price limit on the chairs they can provide. If an occupational therapist decides that you need a more expensive chair such as an electric wheelchair you can get one by contributing money of your own or using a voucher towards a standard chair.

If you only need one for a short time, the British Red Cross may of assistance on 0800 587 8929.

Repairs/servicing

A private company, AJ Mobility offers delivery, collection, modification and repair of wheelchairs. They have trained staff and a workshop where major repairs and reconditioning take place, and a mobile team of mechanics who undertake deliveries, collections and minor repairs at the patient’s home. The NHS will pay for most repairs.

Tel: 01323 847250
Fax: 01323 849707
Email: name@ajmobility.co.uk

Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm (answering service at all other times).

How can I find out more?

The wheelchair service is provided by Eastbourne District General hospital. You can call them on 01323 413798.

For more general enquiries, contact our physical disability team.