Buying a mobility product for the first time can feel overwhelming—especially if you're unsure where to start. At Active Mobility, we're proud to be a trusted member of the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA), which means you can count on us for expert guidance, honest advice, and personalised support.
As part of the BHTA’s Get Wise series, this guide introduces the NHS Personal Wheelchair Budget (PWB)—a scheme designed to give you more choice and control over your wheelchair and accessories.
What Is a Personal Wheelchair Budget?
Since December 2019, anyone who accesses NHS wheelchair services in England now has a legal right to a Personal Wheelchair Budget (PWB). This funding option helps ensure you can get the wheelchair that’s right for your health, your lifestyle, and your personal preferences.
A PWB can be used:
-
To access a suitable wheelchair through the NHS
-
Or to contribute towards a wheelchair in the private sector, with support and guidance from a BHTA-accredited provider like Active Mobility
Why Choose a Personal Wheelchair Budget?
Personal Wheelchair Budgets offer a more flexible and personalised approach to equipment provision. They allow your postural and mobility needs to be integrated into your wider care plan, and empower you to:
-
Choose from a wider range of wheelchair models and features
-
Consider accessories that enhance independence and comfort
-
Take part in decisions that directly affect your daily life
PWBs are replacing the old NHS wheelchair voucher scheme, and build on the NHS's broader move to Personal Health Budgets for more people.
The Benefits of a PWB
-
💡 More choice – Access products beyond the standard NHS range
-
👨👩👦 Greater control – You’re involved in selecting the equipment that works for you
-
🧭 Personalised planning – Equipment is chosen with your full health and lifestyle needs in mind
-
🤝 Joined-up care – PWBs support better coordination between health and social care services
The programme is part of NHS England’s Personalised Care Group, which aims to put you and your family in control of your care and support.
How Active Mobility Can Help
As a BHTA-accredited retailer, we are here to guide you every step of the way:
-
✅ We help you explore suitable equipment that aligns with your clinical and lifestyle needs
-
✅ We can work with your NHS wheelchair services team if you opt to use your PWB in the private sector
-
✅ We ensure you receive full support, from assessment through to fitting, training, and ongoing care
You’re never just buying a product—you’re investing in independence, comfort, and long-term mobility.
👉 Click here to read the full BHTA guide to Personal Wheelchair Budgets
Why Buy From Active Mobility?
Expert Knowledge
Our team has years of experience in the mobility industry and is dedicated to helping you find the right wheelchair for your personal and clinical needs.
Quality Products
We work with top mobility brands and offer an extensive range of NHS-compatible and privately funded wheelchairs.
Personalised Service
We’ll guide you through the Personal Wheelchair Budget process and help you understand your options.
Free Demonstrations
We offer no-pressure home or in-store assessments to ensure you’re happy with your choice.
Ongoing Support
We’ll be here long after your purchase, with servicing, upgrades, and friendly advice.
Source BHTA
