Maintaining Independence
Daily living aids and equipment
Before you buy or hire equipment
- Daily living aids and Equipment are available through your local Community Equipment Service, access to this service is via Occupational Therapy referral. With equipment being provided free of charge, on loan to individuals with an assessed need
- Do not commit to choosing equipment until you have checked all of the options and suppliers
- Try before you buy, ask for a demonstration or trial
- Check the company's policy on returning equipment and warrantees
- You may be entitled to VAT Relief (opens in a new tab) if you have a disability
Impartial advice
AskSara (opens in a new tab) is a self-assessment tool that gives free advice on what aids and equipment best suit your needs and budget based upon answers you give about your health and abilities.
Living Made Easy (opens in a new tab) is an impartial advice and information website about daily living equipment and other aspects of independent living which aims to provide comprehensive and independent information about daily living equipment available to the public from national suppliers. This product information is supported by expert advice created by a team of Occupational Therapists.
Research Institute for Disabled Consumers (opens in a new tab) is an independent national charity who provide consumer information and user reviews to help disabled and older people choose the right products and services to lead an independent life.They have specific guidance about: