FAQ
Have a question about mobility equipment, funding or our services?
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Midshires Mobility Group. If you can’t find what you are looking for, our friendly team is always happy to help.
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Funding FAQ
Q. What government schemes offer financial help for mobility devices in the UK?
A. There are several government-backed schemes available in the UK that can help towards the cost of mobility equipment.
The Motability Scheme allows eligible individuals to use their qualifying disability benefit, such as the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) to lease a powered wheelchair, scooter or vehicle.
As an approved Motability dealer, Midshires can guide you through the entire process.
The NHS also provides wheelchairs to those with a clinical need through local wheelchair services, with some patients entitled to a Personal Wheelchair Budget, giving them more choice over the equipment they receive.
If you would like to find out more, our team is always happy to help point you in the right direction.
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for wheelchair funding programs?
A. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the funding source but some general principles apply across most schemes.
For the Motability Scheme you must be in receipt of a qualifying mobility allowance at the appropriate rate and have at least 12 months remaining on your current award at the time of application.
For NHS wheelchair provision, you typically need to have a long-term condition or disability that means you are unable to walk or find walking very difficult. Your need must be assessed and confirmed by a healthcare professional such as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist.
For charity and benevolent fund grants, eligibility criteria differ between organisations. Some funds are condition-specific, some are trade or profession-specific and others focus on particular age groups such as children under 19. VAT relief is also available on mobility equipment for individuals who are chronically sick or disabled, which can reduce the overall cost of equipment significantly.
If you are unsure whether you or your client may be eligible for any of these schemes, our experienced team can help assess your situation and point you towards the most appropriate funding route.
Q. Can I check the situation of these schemes with you?
A. Yes, simply fill in our contact form with all of your details, visit us or call us on 01889 582332.
Finding the right equipment FAQ
Q. How do I know which wheelchair is right for me?
A. Choosing the right wheelchair depends on several factors, including your level of mobility, your daily routine, the environments you need to navigate and your postural support requirements.
The best way to find the right solution is through a professional assessment carried out by a qualified specialist. At Midshires, our experienced team offers free assessments at a location of your choice anywhere across mainland England and Wales, taking the time to understand your individual needs before making any recommendations.
To arrange an assessment, head over to our contact page.
Q. How do I know if I need a prescriptive wheelchair?
A. A prescriptive wheelchair is typically recommended when a standard off-the-shelf wheelchair does not adequately meet a person’s postural, functional or clinical needs. This is often the case for individuals with complex seating requirements, reduced trunk control, neurological conditions or progressive conditions that affect posture over time.
A prescriptive wheelchair is tailored to the individual following a detailed clinical assessment. If you are unsure whether a prescriptive solution is right for you or your client, our team can advise following an initial consultation.
Q. What is the difference between a powered wheelchair and a mobility scooter?
A. A powered wheelchair is designed primarily for individuals who cannot self-propel a manual wheelchair and require a more clinically configured seating solution.
Powered wheelchairs offer greater postural support, more complex control options and can be highly customised to meet individual clinical and functional needs.
A mobility scooter is generally designed for those who can walk short distances but struggle with longer distances and require a more straightforward solution for getting around outdoors. Scooters typically have a tiller-style steering column and a standard seat rather than a configurable seating system.
The right choice depends on your level of need, lifestyle and the environments you use it in.
Q. What wheelchair is suitable for a child?
A. There is a wide range of manual and powered wheelchairs specifically designed for children and young people, built to accommodate smaller body dimensions while still offering the adjustability needed to support growth and changing postural needs.
Paediatric wheelchairs are available for use at home, school and outdoors and can be configured with specialist seating and support systems where required. Funding options are also available for children, including charity grants for powered wheelchairs for those under 19.
Our team has experience in paediatric wheelchair assessments and can advise on the most suitable solution for your child’s individual needs.
Servicing & maintaining equipment FAQ
Q. How often should a powered wheelchair be serviced?
A. We strongly recommend having a powered wheelchair serviced at least once a year. Regular annual servicing helps keep the chair operating safely and efficiently, allowing any wear and tear to be identified early and ensuring all components continue to perform as intended.
If the wheelchair is used heavily or in demanding environments, more frequent checks may be advisable. If you notice any changes in performance, unusual noises or handling issues between services, it is always worth contacting a specialist sooner rather than later.
Q. What does a powered wheelchair service include?
A. A powered wheelchair service typically includes a thorough inspection of all mechanical and electrical components, including the drive system, motors, batteries, joystick and control electronics, brakes, tyres and seating hardware.
Any worn or damaged parts are identified and replaced where necessary. Software and programming checks are also carried out on more complex powerchairs to ensure control systems and powered functions are operating correctly.
A full service helps extend the lifespan of the chair and ensures it continues to meet the user’s needs safely and effectively.
Q. How do I store my wheelchair when not in use?
A. When not in use, a powered wheelchair should be stored in a dry, indoor environment away from extreme temperatures and moisture.
Exposure to damp or cold conditions can affect battery performance and the longevity of electrical components. It is advisable to keep the battery on charge when the chair is not being used regularly, following the manufacturer’s guidance on charging cycles.
If the wheelchair is going to be stored for a longer period, it is worth consulting your supplier for specific guidance on battery maintenance and storage to avoid any deterioration.
End of life / upgrading / recycling FAQ
Q. Can a wheelchair be recycled or donated?
A. Yes, wheelchairs can in many cases be recycled or donated rather than disposed of. A number of UK charities and organisations accept donated wheelchairs in good working condition and redistribute them to individuals in need, both in the UK and internationally.
If the wheelchair is no longer suitable for use it may still be possible to recycle individual components, particularly metal frames. If you are considering donating or recycling a wheelchair it is worth contacting your original supplier in the first instance as they may be able to advise on the most appropriate route.
Powered wheelchairs with complex electronics and custom seating configurations may require specialist assessment before being suitable for reuse.
Q. How do I know when it is time to upgrade my wheelchair?
A. There are several signs that it may be time to consider upgrading your wheelchair. These include a noticeable decline in battery performance or range, recurring mechanical faults or breakdowns, changes in your physical condition or postural needs that the current chair can no longer accommodate and difficulty accessing replacement parts.
If your wheelchair no longer provides the level of comfort, support or function it once did a reassessment with a qualified specialist is recommended. Changes in lifestyle, daily routine or living environment can also influence whether your current wheelchair continues to meet your needs.
Our team at Midshires is happy to carry out a reassessment and discuss upgrade options available to you.
Q. How do I dispose of old wheelchair batteries safely?
A. Wheelchair batteries should never be disposed of in general household waste as they contain materials that can be harmful to the environment. In the UK the law requires that electrical batteries are recycled through appropriate channels. Most local councils provide battery recycling facilities and many retailers are also legally required to accept old batteries for recycling free of charge.
Powered wheelchair batteries are typically sealed lead acid or lithium ion batteries and should be taken to a designated recycling point or hazardous waste facility.
If you are unsure how to dispose of your batteries safely your wheelchair supplier or local council waste team will be able to advise on the most appropriate option in your area.
Charities, benevolent funds and healthcare FAQ
Q. Which charities help fund mobility equipment in the UK?
A. There are many UK charities and benevolent funds that can help towards the cost of mobility equipment depending on an individual’s circumstances, condition or profession.
Some organisations focus on specific medical conditions, others support particular trades or professions through benevolent funds and some are dedicated to helping children access powered wheelchairs and mobility equipment.
Midshires has established relationships with several funding bodies and charities and our team is experienced in helping individuals and families explore the options available to them.
To discuss what may be available for your specific situation, please contact us.
Q. Can a care home or hospice purchase equipment through Midshires?
A. Yes. Midshires supplies mobility and seating equipment to care homes, hospices and other healthcare professionals across the UK. We work closely with care managers, occupational therapists and clinical teams to ensure the right equipment is sourced and configured for each resident or patient. Our team can carry out on site assessments and provide full product demonstrations and handovers at the care setting.
To discuss your requirements please get in touch with our team.
Terms and glossary FAQ
Q. What does Lateral Pelvic Support mean
A. These are structural pads positioned at the side of the hips to help maintain a central, stable seating posture. They prevent the user from sliding or leaning sideways, which ensures correct spinal alignment and long term comfort.
Q. What does Proportional Drive Control mean
A. This is a type of joystick or steering system where the speed and direction of the powerchair respond progressively to the amount of force you apply. Moving the control slightly will drive the chair slowly and pushing it fully will achieve maximum speed.
Q. What does Complex Rehab Technology or CRT mean
A. This refers to individually configured manual or powered wheelchair systems designed to meet specific medical and functional needs. The equipment is custom built following a clinical evaluation to support unique postural requirements.
Q. What does Tilt in Space mean
A. This is a mechanism that rotates the entire seat of the wheelchair backwards while maintaining the exact same angles at your hips, knees and ankles. It is primarily used to redistribute pressure, reduce fatigue and improve trunk stability without altering your seating position.