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Teenagers, Mobility

Teenagers, Mobility

Page last checked January 2025

 

 Find out about our SMArt Moves financial grants for mobility equipment and wheelchairs >

 

Whether or not you are able to walk, a lightweight manual wheelchair can be useful. For example, it might make a difference to hanging out at a shopping centre with friends that you would otherwise find too tiring. Or you may mainly use a powerchair but need a manual ‘back-up’.

Your OT and / or physio will be able to advise you if a manual chair is a suitable option. They may involve Wheelchair Services (WS) in any assessment of your posture and positioning. You will be advised on the most appropriate make and model and when, where and how it could be used.

You may find these information pages helpful when you are talking to your OT / physio. Tick the boxes on the left of the pages that apply to you:

The NHS should provide you with a manual wheelchair if your OT and WS agree you need one as a main way to get around indoors. If you prefer an option that they cannot provide but they agree it is still suitable for you, they may be able to part fund it. If the manual wheelchair is to be a ‘backup’ only it is unlikely the NHS will fund it.

If you need financial help to buy a chair that cannot be provided by the NHS, you may be eligible for our:

The Support Team > at SMA UK can also suggest other charities that may provide a grant.

For more information, see Tab 10. Funding For Equipment onthe Equipment page >.

Whizz-Kidz > – provide information on wheelchairs and mobility equipment, trials, training, and advice.

If you tire quickly using a manual chair, your physio or OT may suggest adding power assist.  This is either a power pack or powered wheels. You can still use a supportive lightweight, foldable manual wheelchair indoors or for shorter trips, but you have the option of getting further faster. This saves energy for other activities.

If you and your parents are discussing this option, you need to check that:

  • the power system is compatible with your chair and suitable for your strength
  • the chair will still be light and compact enough for your parents / PA to lift it into a car
  • your parent can afford the cost of the batteries, running costs and annual service. Though this option is more flexible and generally lighter, it can be more expensive than a powered wheelchair.
Living Made Easy / Power Assists for Manual Wheelchairs > may be helpful in any discussions with your OT or physio.

If you already have a chair from Wheelchair Services, check they will allow you to modify their chair with your chosen power pack. If not, you may need to buy your own manual chair in addition to the power pack.

If you need financial help that cannot be provided by the NHS, Social Services or Education, you may be eligible for our:

The Support Team > at SMA UK can also suggest other charities that may provide a grant. 

For more information, see Tab 10 Funding For Equipment on the Equipment page >.

  • Whizz-Kidz – provide information on wheelchairs and mobility equipment, trials, training, and advice.