Mobility Aids - What to look for
25.01.2010
Advice from Hertfordshire Trading Standards on buying mobility aids
There are many products on the market these days designed to help with mobility and other special needs. These products, like stairlifts, scooters, wheelchairs, 'orthopaedic' beds, walk-in baths and hearing aids can make an enormous difference to your life.
But how do you choose what’s best for you? Although most companies have your best interests at heart, there are some firms who use high pressure selling tactics to get your order, especially if it involves visiting you at home. Follow the tips below from Hertfordshire Trading Standards to avoid unnecessary expense and disappointment.
- Remember that if you do purchase goods or services over £35 in your home you are entitled to a seven day cooling-off period, which allows you to cancel the agreement without penalty. You should be given written notice of your right to cancel by the salesman upfront.
- Before entering into any agreement, ask yourself what you want from the mobility aid? Will it help you with day to day activities? If a salesman comes to your door unannounced do you really need what they are selling?
- Shop around and see what different companies offer; don’t be forced to accept what the first pushy salesman offers.
- Check that the company is a member of a recognised trade association, such as the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA). If so, they will have to agree to a code of practice covering responsible selling, efficient complaints handling, etc.
- Ask friends for any recommendations.
- Read the terms of the agreement or ask family, friends or a carer to look over it so everything that has been promised to you verbally is in writing.
- Insist on seeing the goods in use before you make a commitment to buy. Schemes such as Shopmobility allow you to try out scooters, for example.
- If you are classed as “chronically sick or disabled” and the mobility aid is for your own personal use, then you will be exempt from paying VAT on it.
- If you live in sheltered accommodation and are thinking of buying a scooter, do check with the warden whether you will be allowed to bring it inside and store it in your home or in the hallway.
Hertfordshire Trading Standards will intervene to try to help elderly or otherwise vulnerable consumers who have experienced problems with mobility aids they’ve purchased by contacting the trader on their behalf.