Freedom Wheelchair Annual Servicing

When choosing a wheelchair, careful consideration should be given to the following: - Your individual physical needs Your medical condition(s), size, weight, strength, handling ability, previous wheelchair experience, daily activities and usage time, are all factors which can determine the most suitable wheelchair for you and your lifestyle. Distribe offers a wide range of options including chairs which are self-propelled; attendant-controlled; powered chairs; and power attachments for manual chairs. Environment The environment in which your chair will be used should be an important factor when choosing a model. Consider your lifestyle and daily activities, and whether it is for indoor or outdoor use. The type of terrain the wheelchair is intended for will determine the most suitable model(s). Transport Whether your chair is to be transported separately in the boot of a car or with you seated in a Passenger Carrying Vehicle, will affect other issues such as any requirements for crash-testing, ramps, hoists, and manual lifting maximum weight. Budget and funding Whether you will be purchasing your chair privately, through a charity, or receive funding from NHS Wheelchair Service, Distribe caters for a range of budgets offering a variety of models and specifications. The following link provides further information on NHS funding for wheelchair users: https://www.england.nhs.uk/personalisedcare/personal-health-budgets/personal-wheelchair-budgets/frequently-asked-questions/#how-are-personal-wheelchair-budgets-different-to-the-wheelchair-voucher-scheme For more information on Distribe's products and prices please click here or alternatively please contact Distribe and a specialist advisor will be happy to discuss your requirements and options with you.

Advantages: Power wheelchairs, also known as an electric wheelchairs, offer a solution for users with limited upper body strength, or those who may struggle with the physical exertion required to self-propel a manual chair, but still want to retain their independence. Power wheelchairs come with many different specification options and upgrades, offering luxury and customisation choices for a more comfortable ride. Distribe has a range of powered wheelchairs. For more information click here. Disadvantages: Due to the complex components of power wheelchairs, they are generally more expensive options to purchase and maintain in comparison with its manual counterpart. Power wheelchairs require regular maintenance and may need repairing during its lifetime. Care needs to be taken with the electronics, and batteries need to be charged before use. Power wheelchairs are usually bigger and heavier than manual chairs which can present challenges in transporting them. Distribe offers folding electric wheelchairs to assist with transportation. For further information about these, click here.

Advantages: Manual wheelchairs are simple, reliable, and generally have longer lifespans than their powered counterparts. Manual wheelchairs are usually cheaper and inexpensive to maintain by comparison, due to there being fewer and less-complex components. Usually lighter in weight and easy to transport, they also offer the user exercise and can assist with maintaining upper body strength. Disadvantages: Due to the limited features on manual wheelchairs the users may find their use is restricted in terms of location and length of time due to comfort issues, physical exertion, or environment challenges such as inclines or uneven terrain. The strain on the upper body in using a manual wheelchair can expose the user to higher risk of injury and fatigue. To mitigate the risk of injury and fatigue users can use power attachments. For further information on power attachments offered by Distribe click here.

It is not a legal requirement to insure your chair, but we would recommended you consider obtaining insurance to cover loss, theft, damage sustained in transit, roadside recovery, and third-party liability.

For uneven outdoor terrain you will need larger wheels and off-road tyres which offer durability with deeper treads, to improve stability and traction. A suspension system will offer a smoother ride and the frame should be sturdy and made from materials suitable for use in all weather conditions. Look for weatherproof features such as UV-resistant and waterproof materials and rust-resistant components. Comfort features such as support cushions, seat-padding, and adjustable footrests should provide the extra comfort required for longer outdoor use; while safety can be enhanced with additional features such as anti-tip mechanisms.

No, some products sold by Distribe are assessment-only but some can be purchased directly from Distribe's website. We normally recommended assessments prior to purchase so our specialist can assess your physical needs, environment, and ability to handle/operate the equipment. Working so closely with clients over the years, it has become apparent that trailing the equipment and getting professional advice has been proven time and time again to be successful. It will either confirm that the product is the correct one, or if unsuitable and other products should be evaluated, our specialist can discuss alternative options with you. Your welfare is our top priority, and if following assessment we feel your health or safety could be put at risk from using a particular product, you will be advised as such and alternative solutions can be discussed during the appointment.

No, this service will only cost you your time, the process should take about an hour but maybe longer depending on the product. Absolutely no pressure, nor obligation to purchase.

The main reason is that there may be a particular area you wish to try the products ie: a park, a hill or even you want to try two cars to get the product into. The home assessment is free and no obligation and is completely stress free, if the home environment is not suitable but you have somewhere else in mind locally to you, we are more than happy to meet at this location for you to try the equipment you have requested.

WE TAKE EVERYONE'S HEALTH SERIOUSLY ​ If you would like any advice or online assessment this can easily be arranged via many video call platforms. We also offer a no obligation home assessment service if requested with the appropriate PPE equipment upon request, all products are cleaned before and after assessments. Some products on the site are by assessment ONLY

During the purchase process you will be asked to confirm if you qualify for VAT exemption and fill in a self declaration VAT exemption certificate. If you wish to complete a VAT Exemption form before ordering you can do so by clicking the link https://www.distribe.co.uk/vat-exemption

Standard delivery takes between 2-5 working days (Monday-Friday). We're working as hard as we can on getting all parcels delivered as promised. You can find the estimated delivery date in your order confirmation, when an assessment takes place or when a quotation is sent. Delivery times maybe affected by seasonal pressures but we will endeavour to meet you expectations.

Yes, the joystick can be position either on the right or the left hand side, please add this to the notes when placing the order.

Yes, this is easily acheived by delatching the motors using the red motor toggles, so if you have run out of power the chair can be pushed to load to a vehicle.

Yes, please see the Airlines mobility product policy before travel to ensure you meet their requirements. The battery can be taken on a plane in hand luggage and we have a certificate to show it’s testing standard for airline travel.

You can either lift it in manually, use a ramp or use a hoist , a product specialist will be able to help you find a solution that works for you.

The arms can be lifted up to prevent the joystick from interfering with the table.

The battery can remain in position when the chair is folded.

It is recommended to keep a personal service plan, this should be done on a regular basis. check air pressure in the tyres; check nuts and bolts as they can become loose over time; check cables for any damage always see the user manual if any issues arise, or contact HQ An annual service can be offered please follow the following link to see whats involved and costs that may apply.

Front Wheels Firstly the front wheels on all the models are solid so no need to worry. Rear Wheels A06 | A08 models also have solid rear wheels. A06L | A08L | DE08L | T3 all come with pneumatic 12" tyres which if you still want comfort we suggest having the tyres filled with a tyre slime, this is offered as free option when purchased by assessment. If you still required solid rear tyres, this can also be done as a cost option, but please bear in mind that it will increase the weight by 4kg and in some cases negate any rear suspension.

The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) brings healthcare and assistive technology companies together to improve industry and consumer standards. Our members commit to our BHTA Code of Practice - the only Chartered Trading Standards Institute approved code in the healthcare sector. For more information on the BHTA please click the following link Take me to the BHTA