Help with getting around

Where to get help with wheelchairs, mobility scooters and getting out in the community.

Wheelchairs and mobility scooters

NHS wheelchair services

If you need a wheelchair, the NHS can arrange for a wheelchair service assessment. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to get help with the costs involved. The NHS can also help with walking aids.

AJM Healthcare run the NHS wheelchair service in West Berkshire. Find out about the wheelchair service, eligibility criteria, assessments and contact details on the AJM website.

Hiring a wheelchair or mobility equipment

If you need a wheelchair, scooter or mobility equipment for a short time, you can loan on a daily or weekly basis through Newbury Shopmobility.

You can also hire wheelchairs from Newbury Shopmobility or the British Red Cross. We have a list of wheelchair services on the West Berkshire Directory.

Getting your wheelchair serviced

If you already have an NHS wheelchair and need it to be serviced or adjusted, contact the NHS Berkshire West wheelchair service (AJM Healthcare). Other servicing companies may be listed on the West Berkshire Directory for privately bought wheelchairs.

Custom made equipment

Remap Berkshire provide free, custom-made, unique equipment to help disabled people live more independent lives.

If you think Remap Berkshire could help, you can contact Robert Monk on 07790 127123, email Berks.CaseOfficer@remapgroups.org.uk, or make a remap referral online.

Leaving hospital

When leaving hospital, the council's Joint Care Pathway Service will arrange for any continuing care you need to help you stay as independent as possible. Our support leaving hospital webpage has further information on this process.

Transport

On our website, you can find out about:

older and disabled people's bus passes
Safer Journey Cards - to help bus drivers understand your travel needs
community transport - including the community minibus and community car schemes
West Berkshire Community Connect service - if you live in the Northwest Downlands or villages surrounding Thatcham
Blue Badges - and spaces in our council-owned car parks

If you live in Newbury or Thatcham, the Newbury and Thatcham Handybus often runs excursions and monthly trips. Find out about the Newbury and Thatcham Handybus on the Volunteer Centre West Berkshire website.

You may be eligible for the Motability Scheme, where you could lease a car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair. You can find out about the Motability scheme on their website.

If you travel by train, you may find the National Rail's accessible train travel pages useful. National Rail also have advice for autistic passengers.