FAQs on Personal Wheelchair Budget

Can everyone access a Personal Wheelchair Budget? 

During your assessment or review, the therapist will discuss with you if a Personal Wheelchair Budget (PWB) would be appropriate. If you are likely to have frequent changes to your wheelchair requirements, a therapist will discuss whether a PWB is the right option for you.

How much money is available for my Personal Wheelchair Budget?

The value you are given is based on your clinical assessment of need. There is no additional budget available for PWBs from the Wheelchair Service. Any additional money needed to fund a higher specification wheelchair or additional features will need to come from another source. For example, self-funding, external grants or charities.

How do I choose a wheelchair with the third party Personal Wheelchair Budget option?

You will need to contact a supplier and give them your wheelchair specification that meets your clinical needs. Any wheelchair you choose must meet this specification as a minimum. 

How long do I have to access my Personal Wheelchair Budget ?

Following your assessment and agreement to access your PWB you have 6 months to redeem the budget against your chosen wheelchair. Any request after this time would require re-assessment.

How long does a Personal Wheelchair Budget last?

The PWB will be unique to you and the length of the PWB will be dependent upon your prescription. A typical adult wheelchair lasts 5 years. For children, changes are needed more often as they grow, typically around 3 years.

This may also be the case with some medical conditions where wheelchair needs can change quickly. Once your Personal Wheelchair Budget is handed over, the wheelchair service will not be able to offer you something else if you change your mind; however, you may ask for a review should your clinical needs change.

Can I just go ahead and buy the wheelchair?

The Wheelchair Service needs to approve your choice before purchase. A PWB cannot be issued retrospectively i.e. you cannot buy a wheelchair and then ask for your PWB.

What is not included in the scheme?

Second-hand wheelchairs, scooters, trikes, on-line only products and power packs cannot be bought with either the Third Party or Notional Budget.

How do I get my wheelchair repaired or maintained?

The Wheelchair Service will continue to repair and maintain any wheelchair issued by Newham Wheelchair Service, but this is not the same for the Third Party PWB. With this option you are responsible for arranging and paying for all repairs and maintenance for the duration of the PWB. An amount for this is included in the PWB value, but you will need to make sure the company you obtain the wheelchair from, offer a repair and maintenance package. 

Do I need to get insurance?

Public Liability Insurance is strongly recommended if you are using your wheelchair in a public place, particularly a powered wheelchair.