Wheelchair services, including rehabilitation engineering

This service provides wheelchairs, buggies, pressure distributing cushions and associated special seating for people of all ages with a permanent disability affecting their ability to walk. It is an ‘open access’ service and registered clients can contact therapists for information and advice as necessary. The Wheelchair Service based at Queen Mary’s Hospital is for people registered with GPs in Wandsworth, Richmond, Kingston, Spelthorne, Merton and Sutton.

Services offered

Most clients are assessed in their own homes by experienced Occupational Therapists – or Physiotherapists, who work closely with them – to assess their requirements for manual or powered wheelchairs, specialist children’s buggies and associated supportive seating. Clinics are held at Queen Mary’s Hospital for clients with complex needs.

Once equipment has been provided, the service continues to monitor clients’ needs and carry out equipment maintenance work via a contracted repair company.

Vouchers for manual wheelchairs are available for people wishing to purchase wheelchairs not available through the NHS.

A pressure mapping service is also available.