Find the right equipment and a way to access it.
Start with the task your child or family needs help with. An occupational therapist, wheelchair service or disability living centre can help you explore suitable options and try equipment. Grants, statutory provision, loans and paid hire have different rules.
A practical equipment checklist
Use this list to prepare for an assessment. It is a list of possibilities to discuss, rather than a prescription or confirmation that a fund will pay for an item.
| Need | Examples to discuss | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Getting around | Manual/powered wheelchairs, specialist buggies, walking aids, cushions and postural seating. | Wheelchair and mobility routes |
| Bags and wheelchair accessories | Wheelchair bags, reachable storage, weather covers and holders. For medical equipment bags, ask the supplying clinical team. | Accessory and supplier information |
| Bathing and toileting | Bath/shower supports, toilet seating, commodes and suitable changing surfaces. | OT and community equipment |
| Transfers and handling | Hoists, suitable slings and transfer aids chosen through a moving-and-handling assessment. | Assessment services |
| Eating and drinking | Adapted cutlery, cups, non-slip mats and seating. Feeding-pump equipment comes through the clinical team. | Daily living support |
| Dressing and personal care | Dressing aids, adapted clothing, footwear and continence products. | Clothing and continence routes |
| Sleep and comfort | Assessed beds, mattresses and positioning supports appropriate to the person’s needs. | Beds and sleep support |
| Communication and access | AAC devices, switches, communication resources, adapted computer access and sight/hearing technology. | Communication and technology |
| Sensory and play | Individual sensory resources, accessible toys and adapted outdoor play. | Sensory equipment routes |
| Home and vehicle access | Ramps, adaptations, suitable passenger seating and wheelchair-accessible transport. | Home adaptations / Vehicle support |
Local places to start
Try William Merritt in Leeds, Bradford and Airedale Community Equipment Service, Equality Together in Bradford or Leeds children’s occupational therapy. Check age, catchment, fees and appointment arrangements before visiting.
Before applying or buying
- Ask what the NHS, council or education service can provide first.
- Ask for an assessment and a written recommendation where equipment needs fitting or clinical approval.
- Check what the fund covers, who owns the equipment and who pays for maintenance.
- Keep quotes and wait for written funding approval if the fund requires it.
- For bags and accessories, check compatibility with the wheelchair or medical equipment and ask whether the item is included or a separate purchase.
Further official information
NHS occupational therapy, NHS wheelchair information and Living Made Easy equipment information. Equipment and grant details were checked on 12 October 2026; individual availability varies.
Health and hospital access
Find local hospital toilets, ward facilities, sensory support and NHS passport and care-plan templates.
Hospital access & health guides