©InfoOur volunteer-led medical equipment service provides wheelchair hire and short-term loans of equipment at almost 1,000 outlets in the UK, helping tens of thousands of people every year.
How do we help people?
The service helps people return to their own homes after a hospital stay, enables them to go on holiday with friends or family, and promotes independence. The main types of equipment provided include: wheelchairs, backrests, bath seats, walking sticks and frames, and commodes, bedpans and urinals.
What skills and training do our volunteers have?
Our volunteers have good interpersonal skills and an understanding of the differing physical needs of service users. All our volunteers are also provided with basic training in social care and first aid skills.
How do I get in touch?
If you would like further information, please get in touch with your local Red Cross branch office. Equipment is usually available within 24 hours in an emergency and is loaned free of charge, although a refundable deposit may be requested. We also welcome donations from our service users, which help us to continue providing this valuable service.
Could I volunteer for this service?
Without volunteers, we would never be able to give people the help they need in a crisis. Because we offer so many services across the UK, we depend on people who generously give up their time to help others. Become a medical equipment volunteer.
Want to buy independent living products?
We might be able to help. For further information, please get in touch with your local Red Cross branch office to check whether they sell goods, and if there's a Red Cross disabled living centre nearby.
If we don't have an office near you, the Disabled Living Foundation also offer advice and a supplier directory for a wide range of independent living products.
If you prefer to buy products online you could try the Living Aids Direct shop, which specialises in independent living products.
(Please note: the British Red Cross is not responsible for the content of external websites.)
