A stock image of a lady in a mobility scooter riding over a bridge on a sunny day.

If you have difficulty walking after your stroke, the right mobility equipment – like walking aids or manual or powered wheelchairs – can help you to live more independently and improve your physical and mental wellbeing.

Although some mobility aids can be expensive, you may be able to get equipment free of charge or receive help with the cost, depending on your circumstances.

Before getting a mobility aid, it’s important to have an assessment by a healthcare professional, usually a physiotherapist or occupational therapist, to make sure you get equipment that’s right for your needs. Your GP can arrange a referral.  

Walking sticks and frames

Walking sticks and frames, including Zimmer frames and rollators, can usually be borrowed from the NHS (England, Scotland and Wales) or HSC (Northern Ireland) for free or a small deposit. Speak to your GP, physiotherapist or hospital team. You can also buy them from mobility shops or online.

Manual and powered wheelchairs

You may be able to get a wheelchair for free through the NHS or HSC. Ask your GP, physiotherapist or hospital team to refer you to your local wheelchair service for an assessment. They’ll recommend the most suitable wheelchair for your needs.

The NHS only covers equipment that meets your essential needs. If you’d like extra features or more choice, ask about a Personal Wheelchair Budget (PWB) with contribution. This allows you to combine the value of the NHS recommended wheelchair with your own money or a grant, to pay for upgrades. HSC also offer a similar scheme.

Mobility scooters

Mobility scooters aren’t usually available via the NHS or HSC. However, if you receive certain disability benefits, you can use some or all of your benefit payment to lease a powered wheelchair or mobility scooter through the Motability Scheme. Visit motability.co.uk/scooters or call 0300 456 4566 for more information.

Other sources of funding

If you can’t afford a mobility aid and don’t qualify for NHS/HSC or Motability funding, the following charities may be able to help. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary and applications usually need to be made by a healthcare professional.

For more information about sourcing and funding mobility equipment

Contact our Stroke Support Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or helpline@stroke.org.uk

Stroke News magazine

This article is featured in the summer 2026 edition of our magazine, Stroke News. Subscribe to our future editions available in print, on audio CD or via email.