Some disability equipment, especially larger and more expensive items, is sold by mail order or sales persons visiting your home. This can be very convenient, saving the trouble of visiting a showroom, but there have been cases of people being pressured into buying equipment or being sold goods which are not the most appropriate for them. Not only is disability equipment vital for your independence it can also be expensive, so think very carefully before signing any contract. Here are some things to think about before going ahead.

• If possible have a friend or carer with you when the salesperson calls. It is good to have a second opinion, will make it less easy for a salesperson to pressure you, and means that you will have a witness to any agreement you make.
• The price of disability equipment can vary widely among different suppliers. It is worth shopping around and checking prices with other suppliers before you commit to buying.
• How comfortable is the equipment to use / is it appropriate for you? Always try and get some independent advice on what type of aid would be best for you. If possible try out the equipment first. In some cases you may be able to have the equipment at home on trial.
• Does the product comply with British Standards? The equipment should have a BSI Kitemark or Safety Mark.
• Will the equipment stand up to fairly hard wear and tear? Find out how often the equipment will need servicing, and about running costs and guarantees. Decide if you will need to insure your equipment and how much that will cost.
• How easy will it be to transport and store the equipment? If the piece of equipment is quite large you will need to check if it will fit through your door and whether you need a ramp to get it in and out. Other things to consider include whether or not the equipment can be folded up or will it fit in a car. Some equipment, for example an electric wheelchair, needs to be charged up. Do you have somewhere secure to do this?

Second hand equipment

If you are buying second hand equipment it is important to check that it is in good working order. The seller must give you an accurate description of the equipment, including any faults, before you buy. It is best to get this in writing; this will make it easier for you to get your money back if you find any faults that you weren't told about. Make sure you are given the user manual and safety instructions.

If you want to buy or sell second hand equipment you can subscribe to the Disability Equipment Register. Subscribers receive a monthly magazine with details of equipment for sale. For more information contact the Disability Equipment Register

Your local Disabled Living Centre may also know of second-hand equipment for sale in your area. Some companies buy and sell second-hand equipment, which may come with a limited guarantee.

Financial help

Many gadgets and aids, because of their simplicity, are relatively cheap to buy. However, some disability equipment can be expensive. If you can't afford to buy what you need, you may be able to get financial help.

Community Care Grants are available for people who want to stay in their own homes, rather than move into a care home or hospital. To apply, you must be receiving Pension Credit and have less than £1,000 savings. You will be expected to use any savings over £1,000 to pay for whatever equipment you need. You can get an application form from your local social security office. These are discretionary grants, so you are never certain of getting one, but it's worth a try! Local advice agencies, such as Citizens Advice Bureau might be able to help you make an application. More information is given in our free advice leaflet Can You Claim It? (PDF).

If you are not receiving Pension Credit, or you are refused a Community Care Grant, you may be able to get help from a benevolent society. Benevolent societies are charities which can give grants to individuals. For more information about finding an appropriate benevolent society and making an application, see our free information sheet Financial Help from Benevolent Societies (PDF).