NHS Wheelchair Services are run by local health authorities. They are responsible for allocating funds to the Wheelchair Service and Primary Care Trusts who are then responsible for providing the service itself. This sometimes includes contracting the running of the service to an outside company.
It's important to note that the way services are organised and provided varies between locations. This includes the 'eligibility criteria' used to decide what type of wheelchair (if any) to provide, the timescales in which to provide equipment, and the way in which wheelchairs are funded. The basic process is as follows:
- you are referred to a local NHS Wheelchair Service
- an assessment of your needs takes place
- timescales and funding options are discussed
- the wheelchair, and training in its use, is provided
- a maintenance and repair plan(s) is arranged
Wheelchairs can be manual or powered and may be provided with accessories such as cushions, armrests and trays.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/HealthAndSupport/Equipment/DG_4000495
