For people who have difficulty getting up out of a seat it can sometimes be a bit of a tricky moment as they go from the seated to standing position and although they may have a frame or walking stick it can sometimes feel like theres not much support as they lift up out of a chair and may feel vulnerable for a moment until they are in a standing position.

A lifting cushion provides support for the person as they lift from the seat, the cushion has hydraulics that enables it to support around 80% of the users weight so as they begin to get up, their backside is still supported and makes it much easier, safer and overall more reassuring.

The lifting cushion is not permanently fitted so it means that it can be taken anywhere and placed on most types of seats.

Lifting cushions start at around £120, they have washable covers and are comfortable for the user, usually with memory foam.

They can be adjusted to suit the users bodyweight so that as the person begins to move upwards the lifting cushion supports accordingly.

For a child, not all mobility aids have to be purely for support or just getting from point A to B, some can be fun too and allow the child to experience as much fun as able-bodied children.

A trike can be ideal for children who are able to use their legs but at the same time need the added stability of 3 wheels, also mobility trikes come with trunk and pelvic supports if the child needs them, so that they can ride safely and it lessens worry for parents who may fear their child not being supported enough.

The child can actually feel very secure and is still free to have lots of fun and enjoyment from riding their trike.

Most of the models of mobility trikes available can be folded down for easier transportation, so use of the trike is not limited to only when the child is near to home.

Prices start at around £450 but depending on the needs, some can cost slightly less while other models will cost considerably more.

Some trikes can cost over £1000, for example the type that are suitably for children with Cerebral Palsy, they provide good seating, support around the body and a support for the childs head too as well as a steering function handle for a parent or carer, this is fitted at the back of the trike.

This type also comes with weighted pedals and adjustments can easily be made to the seat and supports to suit the user and make the experience as comfortable for the child as possible.

An ideal combination of safety and fun.

Sometimes it’s not necessary to be seated out of your wheelchair and in a recliner chair if you are intending on staying mobile for a few hours and wish to have the readiness of still being in your wheelchair while being able to deal with a few things during that time.

From having a cup of tea to signing paperwork or a cheque and enjoying your hobbies you can perform all of these a lot easier with a wheelchair tray.

They are usually positioned just above your lap and provide a level and steady work area as well as somewhere to place a cup of tea or coffee while chatting with relatives and friends.

Many of the trays available go across the full area of your lap and tend to curve and wrap around the side of your waist area but still leave enough breathing room, then there are the type that cover most of one side (half lap tray) and can either be fitted to the left side or the right, usually with a cup placing area, similar to the full sized wheelchair trays.

All wheelchair trays can be wiped clean so they are suitable for cups and small plates as well as anything else that you wish to place on the tray, they can even come in handy at times as simply a place to rest your hands and arms on.

A simple addition for a wheelchair but with multiple uses and allowing you to do a variety of everyday tasks while still seated in your wheelchair.

You can usually pick up a wheelchair lap tray for about £18 upwards for a basic moulded one and if you require a half lap tray they can cost considerably more, usually from around £70 upwards.