Sign in
Contact us
Menu

Main menu

Quick links

Sign In
Learn the rules of our service
Register
Your personal information stays safe
Search for Provider
Get assistance and quick answers

Wheelchair Users

Home
SEN
Wheelchair Users

Contents

Who wheelchair users are
Common access and mobility needs
Getting assessed and supported
Support in education
Equipment and accessibility planning
Related guidance

Local Providers for Wheelchair Users

Search by postcode

Who wheelchair users are

Wheelchair users are individuals who rely on manual or powered wheelchairs for mobility, either full-time or part-time.
 This may be due to physical, neurological or medical conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy or spinal injury.

Wheelchair users can participate fully in education and community life when environments are designed to be accessible and inclusive.

Related guidance

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Medical Technology Users
  • Physical Disabilities
  • SEN Wellbeing
Sign in
Search for Wheelchair Users Support

    Common access and mobility needs

    Wheelchair users may require:

    • step-free access to buildings, classrooms and toilets

    • enough space to manoeuvre safely

    • accessible transport to and from school

    • seating adjustments to match eye level with peers

    • rest breaks for fatigue or medical needs
    Learn about accessibility requirements for wheelchair users
    Understand how schools and workplaces can meet legal access standards.

    Getting assessed and supported

    Assessment involves:

    • referral to occupational therapy or wheelchair services

    • evaluation of posture, equipment fit and safety

    • collaboration with healthcare teams, families and schools

    Assessments may also review environmental accessibility, including ramps, corridors and furniture layout.

    Find out how wheelchair assessments and adaptations work

    Support in education

    Schools and colleges can support wheelchair users by:

    • ensuring accessible classrooms, entrances and playgrounds

    • arranging personal assistants or care staff if needed

    • providing accessible transport for trips and daily travel

    • developing Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs)

    • training staff in manual handling and inclusion awareness

    For complex needs, an EHCP can include physiotherapy, occupational therapy and mobility goals.

    Read about accessibility and SEN support for physical disabilities

    Equipment and accessibility planning

    Equipment may include:

    • manual or powered wheelchairs

    • standing frames or posture support systems

    • adjustable desks and hoists

    • accessible ICT equipment

    • protective gear for outdoor or sports activities

    Schools should carry out risk assessments and ensure regular maintenance of equipment.

    External resources:

    NHS: Wheelchair services overview
    Scope: Accessibility and inclusion support
    Whizz-Kidz: Wheelchair skills and youth programmes

    Get support for wheelchair users

    Search for therapists, mobility assessors and educators trained to support wheelchair users in schools and the community.

    Find SEN and accessibility specialists near you