I have been assessed for a electric wheelchair and awaiting documents etc. I was told that my nhs wheelchair will need to be returned - I have had it 2 years and it was ‘made to measure’, I offered to buy it but was told this is not allowed. Is this normal? I want to keep using my manual wheelchair to use around the house and to ‘use it not lose it’!!
Hi, yeh, my WS wont let us have 2 chairs…they only give electric ones if we cant walk at all. I gave my manual back when I went electric.
Boudsx
I was allowed to keep my manual chair when I got my electric chair. We find it invaluable as which chair I use depends on what we’re doing. For example, if I’m going for a doctor’s appointment I’ll use the manual chair as it’s a bit of a faff dismantling the power chair to go in the car when we’re only going to be a short time.
Sarah
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I can’t go out alone anymore, or drive the car, so need help.
So… I was issued with two NHS wheelchairs -
- a manual folding, which I use when going in the car, my carer pushes me in it, and
- an electric/power chair, which is for use at home. So my indoor outdoor needs are covered.
I have these on loan for 5 years.
I would definitely tell them you would like to keep the manual chair. I have seen what they do with them, and they end up being scrapped - such a waste!
My local mobility shop owner said to tell them that I needed the old chair for use upstairs (I live in a dormer bungalow with a stairlift) 
you have to be quite firm though and stick to your guns. I’m so glad I did, my chair was far too important to me to let go of easily
Elaine x
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Yeh, try to keep a hold on that manual. And yes, it would end up in a skip!
Boudsx
Hi, I am just staring the process of getting an electric wheelchair through the NHS, could you please tell me what the assessment involves.
Hi ash, I find my wheelchair therapists so good…interested and helpful.
They`ll measure you and see how you sit…they have a criteria just for MSers, with guidelines.
Boudsx