Independent Living - How can I get help?

If you find various tasks at home or work are becoming increasingly difficult because of mobility issues there's plenty of equipment to help you, and you may be entitled to it for free.

How do I find out what I need?
Equipment needs are assessed by occupational therapists, physiotherapists and community nurses, either on discharge from hospital through NHS services, or through local authority social services. If you are experiencing difficulties at home you can contact your local social services to arrange for an Occupational Therapist (OT) to visit you and take a look at the problems you are having. The OT may suggest different ways of performing a task or recommend equipment they think will help, in some cases they might bring along equipment for you to try out.

I've decided what I want, so how do I get hold of it?
If an OT thinks some equipment will help you they can usually arrange for this to be provided. In some cases the equipment is free, however often a charge is made. If the equipment is provided by social services you may not have a choice of the brand or style of the item.

I know what equipment I need, how can I get it myself?
If you would prefer to find your own equipment rather than go through social services there are plenty of resources that show what's available. The Disabled Living Foundation is a great place to start. Most equipment suppliers have great websites where you can find product information, and in many cases buy online. For simple independent living equipment where you're confident you know what you want, choosing and buying it yourself is a good option. However if you need more complicated and expensive equipment such as beds and furniture it is normally recommended that you consult an OT, just so you can get their professional opinion on what would be best for you.

At Mangar International we have a full range of Independent Living equipment from pill boxes to pillow lifters, reachers to ramps. Visit our website for more information, or call us on freephone 0800 280 0485 - for some equipment you can make an appointment for us to visit you and let you try it out first, all without any pressure to buy.