Get equipment to help at home

If you're struggling to carry out daily tasks there may be equipment available to help you do things safely and independently. You can get equipment to help you

get in and out of your home
wash, dress and use the toilet
prepare food and drink
move around your home
get in and out of bed

Choosing the right equipment

Having the right equipment can make a huge difference when it comes to being able to carry out daily activities in your home.

Not sure what equipment you might need?

For advice and support please call 01752 668000. Depending on your needs and circumstances we might be able to help you immediately, or arrange for you to have an assessment to understand what would best help you.

Equipment might include:

moving and handling equipment, such as hoists
adjustable beds and chairs which can be raised and lowered
walking aids
bathing aids
kitchen aids
pressure relieving equipment such as mattresses and cushions

Buying your own equipment to help you at home

If you want to buy your own equipment, please visit our online shop, which is part of our Safe and Well website.

On the Safe and Well website, there is an option to answer a few simple questions, and we will give a recommendation for the type of equipment that best fits your needs.

Returning or repairing equipment

Please call 0800 988 7344 if the equipment is broken and needs to be fixed. The office is open from 8am to 6pm, Monday through Friday.

Almost all of our items are designed and manufactured with materials that enable them to be returned and recycled.

This is crucial not only for lowering equipment costs but also for helping to reduce our carbon impact.

If you no longer require a piece of equipment, please phone 0800 988 7344 or email enquiries@plymouth.nrs-uk.net and let us know so that we can advise you on how to drop it off or recycle it.

Plymouth's Community Equipment Service provider is NRS, and their address is 18 Hearder Court, Beechwood Way, Langage Science Park, Plympton, Plymouth PL7 5HH.

Frequently asked questions

What types of equipment can help me to remain independent in my home?

Many different types of equipment can help you to remain independent in your home, depending on your individual needs. Some common examples include:

Mobility equipment: This can include wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and stairlifts.
Bathroom equipment: This can include grab bars, raised toilet seats, and shower chairs.
Bedroom equipment: This can include adjustable beds, bed rails, and bedside commodes.
Kitchen equipment: This can include reachers, grabbers, and adaptive utensils.
Communication equipment: This can include amplified phones, video phones, and text-to-speech devices.

How do I know what type of equipment I need?

The best way to determine what type of equipment you need is to talk to your doctor or occupational therapist. They can assess your needs and recommend the best equipment for you.

You may also want to consider talking to other people who use assistive equipment or contacting the Plymouth Community Equipment Service.

Where can I get equipment to help me at home?

There are several places where you can get equipment to help you at home. You can:

Purchase equipment from a medical supply store or online retailer.
Rent equipment or borrow equipment

Contact the Plymouth Community Equipment Service to discuss your options.

How do I pay for equipment to help me at home?

The cost of equipment to help at home can vary depending on the type of equipment and where you purchase it. Some insurance plans, for example, may cover the cost of equipment, while others may not.

If you are unable to afford to purchase equipment outright, you may be able to rent it or borrow it from a local disability resource centre. For more information, please contact the Plymouth Community Equipment Service.

What are some things to consider when choosing equipment to help me at home?

When choosing equipment to help you at home, it is important to consider the following factors:

Your individual needs: What types of activities do you need assistance with? What are your physical limitations?
The cost of the equipment: How much can you afford to spend? Is the equipment covered by your insurance?
The quality of the equipment: Is the equipment well-made and durable? Is it backed by a warranty?
The ease of use: Is the equipment easy to use and maintain?
The appearance of the equipment: Do you feel comfortable using the equipment in public?

What are some tips for using equipment to help me at home?

Here are some tips for using equipment to help you at home:

Read the instructions carefully before using any new equipment.
Make sure that you are properly trained on how to use the equipment safely.
Inspect the equipment regularly for any signs of wear and tear.
Store the equipment in a safe and accessible location.
Ask for help if you need it.

How can I help a family member or friend who is struggling to remain independent in their home?

There are several things you can do to help a family member or friend who is struggling to remain independent in their home. You can:

Offer to help them assess their needs and identify the type of equipment they need.
Help them to find and purchase or rent equipment.
Teach them how to use the equipment safely.
Help them to maintain the equipment.
Be a source of support and encouragement.

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