Aids and equipment to support independent living

Finding the right equipment to help you live at home 

There are many types of equipment that can help with everyday tasks at home. These aids can support you to live more independently and safely, especially if you are older or disabled. 

Types of equipment 

Different types of equipment can help in various parts of your home: 

• kitchen – larger control knobs for cookers, kettle tippers to help with pouring, perching stools.
• bathroom – raised toilet seats, commodes, shower and bath seats, adapted taps. 
• bedroom – bed rails, bed raisers, over-bed tables, talking clocks, mattress protectors. 
• living room – chair raisers, remote controls, waterproof chair covers, over-chair tables. 
• other areas – louder doorbells and phones, flood detectors, second stair rails, trolleys for carrying items between rooms. 

The quickest way to get what you need may be to buy it from a high street retailer or online. 

Buying equipment yourself 

Get advice before buying. 

Before purchasing daily living aids, it may be helpful to speak with: 

• family and friends 
• local support groups 
• health and social care professionals 

They can offer valuable insights and help you choose the right equipment for your needs. 

Use an online self-assessment tool 

Medequip’s Self-Help Guide can help you find products that solve common daily living challenges. It is a version of AskSARA, an award-winning online tool from the Shaw Trust. 

How the guide works 

You can get personalised advice in 3 easy steps: 

• Select a topic from the list 
• Answer a few questions about your needs 
• Receive a personal report with information, advice, links, and suggested products, which can be ordered through Medequip 

For more information, visit Medequip’s Self-Help Guide. 

Funding your equipment 

You may be able to use your Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to help pay for daily living aids and adaptations. If you receive PIP or other disability benefits, check whether you are using your allowances effectively to support independent living. 

It’s also important to make sure you are claiming all the benefits you are entitled to. Citizens Advice can help you check your eligibility for financial support. 

Wheelchairs and mobility assessments 

The council does not provide wheelchairs or conduct mobility assessments. 

• If you need a walking aid (such as a wheeled walker, Zimmer frame, or walking stick), speak to your GP for a referral to the community therapy team. 
• If you need a wheelchair or a mobility assessment, your GP can refer you to the appropriate NHS wheelchair service or mobility assessment provider. 

Community Equipment Service 

If your needs are complex and you require long term support, you may be eligible for an Equipment Assessment, where prescribers can work with you to find ways of managing tasks, offer advice and potential solutions. This is a local authority and NHS funded service, where Medequip provide the equipment on loan. 

Equipment would be prescribed and loaned to you through the Community Equipment Service. Vital equipment is sourced and delivered to Service Users to support hospital discharges, avoid admission, and support the needs of Derby City Council citizens, with the long-term aim of keeping people independent and safe in their home environment. 

To access equipment, you will need to have a telephone assessment of your needs. You can ask your GP for a referral or if you are to be discharged from hospital, an assessment can be arranged via the hospital support service. To enquire or request an assessment, please contact us. 

Returning Equipment 

If you have already benefited from equipment loaned to you that you no longer need, Medequip can arrange a free collection, to recycle and help others in need. Find out more about returning equipment.