Equipment to help you live at home independently

These items can support you to stay safe and independent at home.

Examples of equipment

Bathing aids

• bath board – helps you get in and out of the bath safely
• bath seat – lets you sit lower in the bath. not suitable for plastic baths or if you need to clean your lower body
• shower board – sits across the bath so you can use your shower safely
• shower seat – lets you sit down while showering
• bath step – helps you step safely in and out of the bath

Toilet aids

raised toilet seats – make the toilet higher and easier to use.

toilet frames – give you support to stand up.

commodes – useful if you can’t get to the toilet easily.

Grab rails and handrails

Help with:

• bathing
• toileting
• moving around the home
• can be used indoors or outdoors

Walking aids

• walking frames – good for use indoors.
• wheeled walkers – good for outside use.
• 2-wheeled, 3-wheeled or 4-wheeled types
• tripod or quad canes – more stable than regular walking sticks

Daily living aids

• trolleys – help you carry things around the house (not a walking aid)
• perching stools – let you sit safely while cooking or washing

How to get equipment

Option 1 – buy it yourself

You can buy simple equipment directly from approved pharmacies and mobility shops. This is the fastest option.

We recommend:

• comparing prices
• checking guarantees
• asking for advice in store
• taking a friend or carer with you

If you’re disabled, you may be able to buy VAT-free. Ask in store.

Option 2 – ask us for help

If you’re not sure what you need or have more complex needs:

• fill in our online needs assessment
• or contact Adult Social Care to ask about support and assessment

Where to buy equipment

You can buy equipment from the following approved providers:

• Bentley Chemist
• Brownes Chemist / Thames View Health Limited
• Crofton Park Pharmacy
• Eltham Care & Mobility
• Krisons Chemist
• Ladywell Pharmacy
• Lee Pharmacy
• New Cross Pharmacy
• Rushey Green Pharmacy
• Vantage Pharmacy
• Widdicombe Chemist

If you can’t visit the shop:

• a friend, family member or carer can go for you and collect the item

Returning or disposing of equipment

If you bought it yourself

• you are responsible for disposal
• take small items to the Reuse & Recycling Centre
• or book a £41 bulky waste collection for up to 4 items

If it was loaned to you (eg. bed, hoist, specialist chair)

• call Medequip on 020 8709 7050 to arrange collection

If equipment breaks or no longer helps

Broken within a year?

• contact the shop you bought it from Had it over a year?

Walking aids

• ask your GP

Other equipment

• contact a stockist or Adult Social Care

Needs changed?

• ask for a reassessment if the equipment no longer helps