Social services will explain how. You can arrange this through the GP, hospital consultant or physiotherapist. There is no charge for such equipment but there may be a returnable deposit. Wheelchairs, which are available from your local wheelchair service, are usually standard models. The NHS will pay for servicing and repairs providing these are not due to misuse or neglect.
Some health authorities offer voucher schemes towards the cost of a more expensive wheelchair.
Ask your wheelchair service. Equipment needed for nursing someone at home, such as bedpans, pressure relief mattresses or hoists, should be available on free loan from your community health service. The district nurse will assess the need for such equipment. If you have a complaint about equipment you can write to your local health authority or trust. Buying privately You may wish to buy privately because the equipment you want is not available from health or social services or there is too long a wait.