How to use your wheelchair
Find out about the Red Cross wheelchairs you can hire, instructions on how to use, clean and transport
Find out about the wheelchairs available to hire from the British Red Cross and how to use them.
Our wheelchair video guides and written instructions will teach you how to use standard self-propelled wheelchairs, transit wheelchairs and bariatric wheelchairs.
We can also provide specialist equipment in some locations (subject to availability), that can be used with your wheelchair.
Types of wheelchairs for hire
Self-propelled wheelchair
A self-propelled wheelchair is a wheelchair you can push yourself. British Red Cross self-propelled wheelchairs vary in weight and size, and feature:
- Large sturdy rear wheels
- Fitted hand rims
- Smaller front wheels
- Easy folding
Download instructions (PDF)
Transit wheelchair
A transit wheelchair is designed to be pushed by someone else. Transit wheelchairs vary in weight and size, and feature:
- Smaller wheels
- Lighter frames
Download instructions (PDF)
Bariatric (wide) self-propelled wheelchair
Bariatric wheelchairs are larger, wider and stronger than traditional wheelchairs and can support a weight of up to 25 stone (159 kg). British Red Cross Bariatric wheelchairs feature:
- Reinforced frames
- An anti-tip device for added safety
- Easy folding
Download instructions (PDF)
Bariatric (wide) transit wheelchair
Bariatric transit wheelchairs are larger, wider and stronger than traditional wheelchairs and can support a weight of 25 stone (159 kg). British Red Cross Bariatric wheelchairs feature:
- Reinforced frames
- An anti-tip device for added safety
- Easy folding
Download instructions (PDF)
Free wheelchair accessories
British Red Cross wheelchair accessories are free of charge and can be added to your order on request.
- Leg elevators (if your leg is in a cast or needs to be raised) (PDF)
- Leg stump support (PDF)
Specialist wheelchair equipment (SE)
We also provide specialist wheelchair equipment in some areas (subject to availability).
- Wheelchair backrest (PDF)
- Oxygen bottle carrier (PDF)
Need additional wheelchair accessories? Check out the Assisted Daily Living shop where you can buy wheelchair accessories.
How to use a wheelchair guide
Here you’ll find a easy-to-follow instructions of how to use a British Red Cross wheelchair. These instructions apply to the British Red Cross’ wheelchair range - self-propelled wheelchairs, transit wheelchairs and bariatric wheelchairs.
How to set up a wheelchair
- Stand next to the wheelchair and place your hands on either side of the seat.
- Push down on the seat canvas until the chair is fully open.
- Be careful not to put your fingers between the frame and the seat.
- If applicable, swing the safety bar and attach it to the second handle bar.
- Fix the velcro strap to the handlebar.
- Adjust the height of your footplates.
- Ensure that the lap belt is adjusted to suit the user.
How to use a wheelchair safely
It’s important to know how to get into a wheelchair:
- Push the brake levers forward on both sides of the chair.
- Once sat comfortably in the chair, move the footplates into position.
- Release the footrest catch and swing the footrests round to the front of the chair.
- Drop both footplates down, one at a time.
- Place your feet on the footplates.
- If applicable, make sure your foot straps are at the back of your chair.
How to adjust a wheelchair
- Adjust the height of your footplate to ensure that your legs are properly supported.
- There is an adjusting nut on the footplates that you can loosen (you’ll need a number 10 or 11 spanner).
- Some of our wheelchairs have R-clips to keep the footplates in place during transit.
- If applicable, remove the R-clips before adjusting the length of the footplates.
- The R-clips do not need to be reattached to the wheelchair when using it.
How to load a wheelchair into your car
Here are some tips on how to load a wheelchair into your car:
- Your wheelchair is a heavy piece of equipment, take care when lifting it.
- Remove the footplate and place them into your car directly.
- Make the wheelchair smaller, lower the handles by pressing on the latches at the base of the handles.
- Lift the wheelchair into either the boot or the back seat of the car.
- If the wheelchair is on the back seat, hold it in place with a seat belt.
How to take care of your wheelchair
All British Red Cross wheelchairs are cleaned and safety checked before each loan, but it’s still important to regularly check your equipment for any signs of damage. Here are a few tips on how to clean and take care of your wheelchair:
- Clean the wheelchair seat and back with a cloth or sponge using warm soapy water.
- Wheelchair wheels and rims can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soap water.
- If your equipment is damaged, it’s no longer safe to use.
To report wheelchair damage, get a replacement wheelchair or if you have any queries, contact our team on 0300 456 1914.
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Frequently asked questions
Are the wheelchairs lightweight?
No, all wheelchairs are a standard weight for your comfort and safety. Lightweight models are not available.
Is the wheelchair foldable? Will it fit into the boot of a car?
Yes, all our wheelchairs are foldable for easier storage and transport. They can fit in the boot of standard cars. For step-by-step video instructions, please visit our page on returning your wheelchair or call us on 0300 456 1914 for assistance.
Do you offer electric/power-assisted wheelchairs?
No, we only provide manual wheelchairs. These can be either self-propelled by the user or pushed by an attendant.
What should I do if I have ordered the wrong size wheelchair?
If you have ordered the wrong size wheelchair, please contact us as soon as possible. Call 0300 456 1914 for help. We may be able to arrange an exchange for the correct size. Additional charges may apply.
Are the leg elevators adjustable?
Yes, our leg elevators are adjustable. You can change the length using an 8mm spanner for a more comfortable fit. If you need assistance, please contact us. Call 0300 456 1914 for help. For children’s wheelchairs, a stump support may be a better option.
Do you remove the footplate before attaching the leg elevator?
Yes, the footplate must be removed before attaching the leg elevator. You can find step-by-step video instructions on our wheelchair delivery page. If you need further assistance, please contact us by calling 0300 456 1914.
Can both leg elevators be used with a self-propelled wheelchair?
For safety reasons, we do not recommend using two leg elevators on a self-propelled wheelchair. Adding both can change the wheelchair’s centre of gravity and tilt, which may affect stability. Please contact us for advice if you require two elevators. Call 0300 456 1914 for help.