Getting the equipment you need

There are several ways in which you can find the equipment you may need to make it easier and safer to live at home

You can buy simple equipment in high street shops to help with everyday tasks, such as key and handle turners, long handled tools for the house and garden. Some furniture stores can supply easy chairs that tilt or lift to help people get up. You can find local stockists in your telephone directory.

Who can help me?

Independent advice

Organisations like the Disabled living Foundation (DLF) are a good source of independent, professional advice and information, particularly if you wish to find out what is available for private purchase

The DLF AskSARA website gives guided suggestions and advice to help you with your daily living activities. The online self-assessment questionnaire gives individuals an instant, detailed, confidential report containing suggestions, hints and tips about equipment that may help.
The DLF also operates a help line where you can discuss what areas of daily living you find difficult with an Occupational Therapist (OT). The DLF's Living Made Easy website includes clear practical advice on a wide range of equipment.
Directgov has a wealth of general information on adaptations and equipment for the home.
The Red Cross operates a medical home loan equipment service which is particularly useful for those who have a temporary need and also have a range of independent living products available for purchase.

Help from Hampshire County Council

Adult Services Occupational Therapists can carry out an assessment of what you can and can't do in your everyday activities. They can give you advice and information about equipment that may be useful, or they may suggest alternative practical ways of doing things.

The Hampshire County Council equipment advice page will give you an idea of the types of help available, or to arrange to see an Occupational Therapist contact OT Direct

Financial help with equipment

Smaller items of equipment can be obtained direct from mail order or disability equipment shops and a cost may then be incurred.

People living in privately owned or rented and Housing Association accommodation may be eligible to apply to their District Council for a Disabled Facilities Grant to help with the cost of alterations.

However Adult Services supply equipment free of charge, there is no loan or purchase cost for the equipment provided by them.

Please contact OT Direct for more information.

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What am I entitled to?

The local authority is here to help everyone understand their needs and, if required, provide an assessment. To understand what help you are entitled to in more detail, please see what help am I entitled to.