Wheelchair Power Kits – A GUIDE - Library

Wheelchair Power Kits – A GUIDEWhat is a power kit?A power kit is an add on powered device, designed to remove theeffort for a carer pushing a manual wheelchair.How does a power kit work?The most popular type of add-on power assistance is in the form ofa fifth, motorised wheel that fits between the rear wheels of amanual wheelchair. The unit is operated from a small control unitthat clamps onto one of the push handles of the wheelchair.How much does a power kit weigh, and how far will it go?There are a number of different types of power kits available on themarket, however the most popular types of power kit are currentlythe TGA Chair Assist, and the Samson Jockey (supplied by GeraldSimons Healthcare).Type Weight Range Max SpeedSamson 22lbs (10kgs) Up to 4.7 miles 3.4 MPHTGA 30lbs (14kgs) Up to 10 miles 4 MPHNB. Table based on manufacturers information. Ranges can varygreatly depending upon the weight of the wheelchair occupant,and the terrain.A standard NHS wheelchair weighs approximately 33lbs (15kgs).Will a power kit fit my private wheelchair?Some wheelchair manufactures recommend that power kits shouldNOT fitted to their wheelchairs. A reputable power kit supplier canadvise if your particular wheelchair is compactable with yourchosen power kit.Can I fit a power kit to my NHS wheelchair?Guide Number PK1KC-Jan 04

If you wish to fit a power kit to an NHS wheelchair it isrecommended that you inform the Wheelchair Service on 0116 2584586. The Wheelchair Service can check that your currentwheelchair is compatible with a power kit. If your currentwheelchair is not recommended for use with a power kit, wherepossible, the Wheelchair Service will arrange for it to beexchanged for a more appropriate model.What should I consider when buying a power kit?It is advisable that you try a power kit, before you purchase one.This should include…• Fitting and removing the power kit from the wheelchair• Operating the wheelchair with the power kit fitted on the flat,up and down a slope, and up and down kerbs.• If relevant, lifting in and out of a carStaff at the Disabled Living Centre may be able to assist you toselect the most appropriate power kit for you. They can becontacted on 0116 270 0515.Who will fit the power kit?Your power kit supplier should be able to fit the power kit for youfor the first time, and demonstrate its removal. It is recommendedthat you read any operating instructions carefully before you usethe power kit.Can I get any help to pay for a power kit?Unfortunately the Wheelchair Service is not funded to providepower kits. However, some individuals have been successful inobtaining charity funding for this type of equipment. If you wouldlike more information on this please call the Wheelchair Service on0116 258 4695.Useful contact detailsGuide Number PK1KC-Jan 04

The Wheelchair ServiceDisablement Services CentreLeicester General HospitalGwendolen RoadLeicesterLE5 5NTTel: 0116 258 4695Disabled Living Centre76 Clarendon Park RoadLeicesterLE2 3ADTel: 0116 270 0515TGA Electric Leisure LTDFactory Lane WestHalstead EssexCO9 1EXTel: 01787 478 430Gerald Simonds Healthcare LTD9 March PlaceGate House WayAylesburyBucksHP19 8UATel: 01296 436557Bromakins WheelchairsPrince William RoadLoughboroughLE11 5GUTel: 01509 217 569Guide Number PK1KC-Jan 04