Equipment to stay independent

Adaptive equipment and minor home adaptations

Simple solutions to help you stay safe, confident, and independent.

A few small changes at home can make everyday tasks much easier and help prevent falls. If you’re noticing certain activities becoming harder, the right piece of equipment can make a big difference.

What adaptive equipment can support you with

Helpful equipment can assist with:

• Getting into and out of bed
• Bathing, showering, or getting up from the toilet
• Washing and dressing
• Standing up from a chair
• Carrying things safely between rooms
• Staying safe while cooking
• Reducing slips, trips, and falls

Want to choose and buy your own equipment quickly?

Try AskSARA — it is fast, independent, and full of options.

If you prefer to explore solutions at your own pace, AskSARA is a great place to start. It’s a simple online tool where you can:

• Get personalised advice
• Explore equipment tailored to your needs
• Choose from a wide range of products
• Buy directly and get items delivered straight to you
• No waiting and with more choice and control.

Need help with daily tasks?

If everyday activities are becoming difficult and you think a health condition is affecting your independence, we’re here to help.

How to get support

You can contact Adult Social Care to request an assessment.

A trained professional will talk with you about the challenges you’re experiencing and check whether you’re eligible for support or equipment to help you stay independent.

Or call Adult Social Care on 0118 937 3747.

Our equipment is provided by Berkshire Community Equipment Service through a company called Millbrook Healthcare.

Millbrook Healthcare will deliver, fit, maintain and service the equipment whilst it is on loan to you.  

If you buy your own equipment and you are disabled or have a long-term illness, you won’t be charged VAT on products designed or adapted for your own personal or domestic use. 

Your supplier should be able to advise you if zero rating can be applied to a particular item. More information is also available at the GOV.UK website  (opens new window). 

Returning equipment

All equipment (chairs, beds, commodes, bath lifts etc) loaned by the council will have an NRS or Millbrook Healthcare label on it with contact details.

For collections, repairs or if you no longer need the item call Millbrook Healthcare on 0118 228 8701.

Free collection available.

Wheelchair and walking aids

Talk to your GP if you think you need a wheelchair or walking aid. They will arrange for your needs to be assessed. 

You can hire wheelchairs through the Red Cross. 

There may be a charge for hire. 

Arranging Minor Adaptations  

The council can also help with minor adaptations to help you remain independent at home and prevent falls. Minor adaptations include:  

• key safe
• grab rails
• handrails
• banister rails 

Minor adaptations up to £1000 are not means tested and can be completed free of charge. If you need help and cannot arrange your own minor adaptations contact Adult Social Care and ask for an assessment . A trained person will carry out an assessment to see if you are eligible for support. 

Housing association tenant: Please speak to your housing provider in the first instance to see if they will provide minor adaptations such as rails for you. 

 If you would like to find your own solution you can contact Age UK who also provide repairs and rails for a small charge. 

Arranging Major Adaptations and Disabled Facilities Grants  

More information on how to arrange an adaptation over £1000. 

Major adaptations include:  

• showers
• ramps
• stairlifts